ink of it, with the battle-piece on
the side towards the "Piaza," that being the most difficult;
nor down to this time has any one chosen to assume so hard a
task.

"'I, most excellent Lords, should be better pleased to receive
as recompense for the work to be done by me, such
acknowledgments as may be deemed sufficient, and much less; but
because, as already stated by me, I care solely for my honor,
and mere livelihood, should your Serenity approve, you will
vouchsafe to grant me for my life, the next brokers-patent in
the German factory,[45] by whatever means it may become vacant;
notwithstanding other expectancies; with the terms, conditions,
obligations, and exemptions, as in the case of Messer Zuan
Bellini; besides two youths whom I purpose bringing with me as
assistants; they to be paid by the Salt Office; as likewise the
colors and all other requisites, as conceded a few months ago
by the aforesaid most Illustrious Council to the said Messer
Zuan; for I promise to do such work and with so much speed and
excellency as shall satisfy your lordships to whom I humbly
recommend myself.'"

226. "This proposal," Mr. Brown tells us, "in accordance with the
petitions presented by Gentil Bellini and Alvise Vivarini, was
immediately put to the ballot," and carried thus--the decision of the
Grand Council, in favor of Titian, being, observe, by no means
unanimous:

"Ayes 10

"Noes 6

"Neutrals 0"

Immediately follows on the acceptance of Titian's services, this
practical order:

"We, Chiefs of the most Illustrious Council of Ten, tell and
inform you Lords Proveditors for the State; videlicet the one
who is cashier of the Great Chest, and his successors, that for
the execution of what has been decreed above in the most
Illustrious Council aforesaid, you do have prepared all
necessaries for the above written Titian according to his
petition and demand, and as observed with regard to Juan
Bellini, that he may paint ut supra; paying from month to month
the two youths whom said Titian shall present to you at the
rate of four ducats each per month, as urged by him because of
their skill and sufficiency in said art of painting, tho' we do
not mean the payment of their salary to commence until they
begin work; and thus will you do. Given on the