The mask started violently, and recoiled from the warrant extended towards him.
"Why do you start? Take the paper, and hasten to execute it."
Still the mask hesitated.
A frown overspread Corneto's brow.
"You seem surprised," he remarked. "It is possible that you may have some objections to the death of this good lady?"
"I have—but well know that I may spare myself the useless trouble of stating them, if you have decided. Yet it seems a very strange affair,—the Pope has not been informed of your intentions."
"How know you that? But no matter—I acknowledge that you speak the truth. The Pope has not been consulted on the subject. But think you that we cannot move in matters concerning the welfare of the church without consulting his opinions?"
The mask remained silent, but his manner of doing so plainly expressed dislike.
"Signor mask," said Corneto, sternly, "you trifle with us! Must I remind you of the terms on which you serve this council—of the fearful contract, conceived and matured in blood, that makes your life security for the fulfilment of our every order?"
Still the mask did not move or reply.
"Then I will refresh your memory," continued Corneto, with increased sternness. "At the dead of night, many years ago, you were found by two officers of this very council, in a dark and retired street, rifling the pockets of a man you had just slain. The fatal dagger was in your grasp, the blood of the murdered man was on your
