Every one crowded round him; every mouth was unclosed to question
him; every eye was fixed on his face as if eager to anticipate his
answers.
"Holy Virgin!" exclaimed Memmo, "I am afraid that--"
"Be silent, signor!" interrupted Contarino, sternly; "there is
nothing to be afraid of."
"Illustrious Venetians!"--it was thus that Flodoardo broke silence,
and he spoke with the commanding tone of a hero--"I conclude that
his Highness has already made known to you the object of your being
thus assembled. I come to put an end to your anxiety; but first,
noble Andreas, I must once more receive the assurance that Rosabella
of Corfu shall become my bride, provided I deliver into your power
the bravo Abellino."
Andreas (examining his countenance with extreme anxiety).--
Flodoardo, have you succeeded? Is Abellino your prisoner?
Flodoardo.--If Abellino is my prisoner, shall Rosabella be my bride?
Andreas.--Bring me Abellino, alive or dead, and she is yours. I
swear it beyond the power of retracting, and also that her dowry
shall be royal!
Flodoardo.--Illustrious Venetians, ye have heard the Doge's oath?
All.--We are your witnesses.
Flodoardo (advancing a few paces with a bold air, and speaking in a
firm voice).--Well, then, Abellino is in my power--is in YOURS.
All (in confusion and a kind of uproar).--In ours? Merciful heaven!
Where is he? Abellino!
Andreas.--Is he dead or living?
Flodoardo.--He still lives.
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