"But he is represented as aiming too freely at the person and wealth of your ward; and that she who is the especial care of St.Mark is not to be solicited without the consent of the Senate, is an usage well known to one of its most ancient and most honorable members." "Such is the law, and none coming of me shall show it disrespect.

I have preferred my claims to that connexion openly, but with diffidence; and I await the decision of the state in respectful confidence." His associates bowed in courteous acknowledgment of the justice of what he said, and of the loyalty of his conduct, but it was in the manner of men too long accustomed to duplicity to be easily duped.
"None doubt it, worthy Signor Gradenigo, for thy faith to the state is ever quoted as a model for the young, and as a subject for the approbation of the more experienced.

Hast thou any communications to make on the interest of the young heiress, thyself ?" "I am pained to say that the deep obligation conferred by Don Camillo Monforte, seems to have wrought upon her youthful imagination, and I apprehend that, in disposing of my ward, the state will have to contend with the caprice of a female mind.

The waywardness of that age will give more trouble than the conduct of far graver matters." "Is the lady attended by suitable companions in her daily life ?" "Her companions are known to the Senate.

In so grave an interest, I would not act without their authority and sanction.