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24
CASTRUCCIO CASTROCANI.



ARREZI.

What has resulted from our late resistance

But a more firm assurance to his sway?

LEONI.

Fools, that could let a prison stand between

Their enemy and death!

ARREZI.

We must conciliate now.


LEONI.

He is to wed

The fair Bianca.

ARREZI.

We shall share his power.


LEONI.

I like no sharing but the lion's share.

This was not once the temper of our house:
The Castrucani owed their banishment
To us and ours.

ARREZI.

Ah! those were glorious days.

None question'd, then, our rightful sovereignty.

LEONI.

Which half the citizens now laugh to scorn.

As yet I have not been an hour in Lucca,
Yet I can see all things are changed.

ARREZI.

Too true!


LEONI.

Your servants are your masters; where are gone

Your old respect and high authority?