human
Whatever cometh, he said to his wife, as they rose at last from the brilliant tables and passed out upon the terraces at the invitation of the Queen;
gpt
What meanest thou, Aluisi? she asked in alarm, and moving quickly aside, as the gay company swept by, that he might explain himself.
human
Surely she might wish to speak with him alone; she is more happy in his presence than she hath been for years. Seest thou not?
gpt
Aye, my very dear one, I see it well. It is that I would hold this rare happiness for her so long as may be; and there is that in the manner of my cousin, the Cornaro, which pleaseth me not. I would not have him unfold to her the matter of his Embassy, if it may be a little deferred.
human
It hath been told thee, already?
gpt
Not more than to thee. But in all the grace of him I see his head above his heart--a certain quality of his father, the 'Magnifico, Marco Cornaro'--as he was known in Venice. Yet one who standeth watching, somewhat apart, may note a hint of displeasure at the splendor of his welcome and the loyalty of the court for the Queen: and the ready wit with which he answereth concealeth under its sparkle a certain persistent measuring of some purpose which he hath much at heart--as if he were studying meanwhile how best to compass his end.
human
For once, my Aluisi, it may be thou dost o'er-reach thyself. Is he not her brother?
gpt
I have watched so long, he said,
human
Thou hast much weight with her, the Dama Margherita answered very low.
gpt
Stay near me, that we may guard her.
human
Not to-night, Zorzi mio! For this one night let us take the pleasure of thy coming as a brother to my home. Thou must know our customs and our people and let them offer thee glad welcome. I have music and song planned for thee:--and our Cyprian gardens--with their delights!--Let us stroll awhile.
gpt
The banquet hath been long enough, he said,
human
And _now_?
gpt
Said I not 'now'?
human
My cousin, thy 'now' must wait upon the Queen's good pleasure, he said, with due deference. Then, more lightly,
gpt
It is the way of our Court in Cyprus--which would do thee honor. Her Majesty hath ordered some festive trifle of music, or other entertainment, which our music-maidens, skilled upon the lute, would fain begin.