s case of satin and velvet. "A veritable
gift-piece! And already thou hast won the favor of the Senate, since it
hath been reported to them by our Chief of the Ten, who hath the
industries of Murano in charge, that at the exhibit given yestere'en a
goblet more sumptuous than that prepared for his Majesty of France was
of thy designing. The Secretary will bring thee this night a summons
from the Ten to appear before them on the morrow to receive their
congratulations, because of the inspiration thou hast given to our most
valued industry.

"It is a rare mark of favor that it hath been confided to me,"
Giustinian continued, still examining the goblet with pride, "since
custom doth require that one should withdraw from the sitting of the
Council when any matter touching his house is treated. But Morosini, by
grace of the Signoria, hath been with me for a moment, that there may be
no misgivings of fear upon this fete-day of our house. And to-night this
summons to favor shall be presented, to honor the youngest member of the
Consiglio. Marcantonio, I am proud of thee; the Ten will be here--every
one! And verily the goblet is beautiful. It shall be well displayed in
the great banquet hall."

"Here, in my boudoir, where my boy hath placed it," said the mother
quickly, as the Senator would have lifted it, "since it is my gift. And,
Marco"--She turned to him a face softened and beautified by the
struggle, which had been very great, and her eyes were deep with a light
which bound him to her forever.

"Marco mio, it shall be well displayed. For I will bid my maidens circle
this table whereon it rests with a wreath of roses--white and very
beautiful--in token of thy mother's favor."

X

Marina, under the yellow glare of the lamp in the dark oak cabinet,
worked fitfully, with broken, lifeless strokes, at the designs before
her; while her father, feigning absorption in some new drawings which
lay spread out within touch of his strong-veined hands, watched her
furtively from the other side of the table.

"Thou art restless," he said, suddenly and sternly; "what aileth thee?"

Her lip quivered, but she did not look up, while with an effort she
steadied the movement of her hand and continued her work. "My hand hath
no cunning to-night, and it vexeth me, my father."

"It is poor work when the heart is lacking," he answered, in a tone
charged with irritation. "I also have seen a thing which hath taken my
heart from me."

T