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LEONI.

A little colouring gives truth to falsehood,

Tell him I'm jealous of Bianca's smile.

ARREZI.

But——

LEONI.

Buts are the stumbling-blocks of enterprise,

We will not have them.

ARREZI.

The risk is fearful—do not think Castruccio

Will yield without a struggle. How can I
Stand by and see him murder'd?

LEONI.

Out on such scruples! Hear me, Count Arrezi!

Go to Castruccio's feet, and tell him all;
Give up your kinsmen and your ancient friends,
And henceforth be his vassal. For ourselves,
We are prepared to die, though not prepared
To perish by your act.

ARREZI.

You know no death could tempt me to betray you.

LEONI.

You have your choice—his life or ours!

ARREZI.

Leoni, I am now a man in years,

Broken and wayworn, and I lack the force
To lead or stem the tide of your fierce spirits;
On either hand is death!

LEONI.

That of your friends and foes is at your choice.