The old Colonna, the sole innocent Baron of the invited guests, was also the only one who refused the invitation.

"Tush!" said he, peevishly; "here is feasting enough for one day! Tell the Tribune that ere he sups I hope to be asleep.

Grey hairs cannot encounter all this fever of festivity." As Rienzi rose to depart, which he did early, for the banquet took place while yet morning, Raimond, eager to escape and confer with some of his spiritual friends, as to the report he should make to the Pontiff, was beginning his expressions of farewell, when the merciless Tribune said to him gravely-- "My Lord, we want you on urgent business at the Capitol.

A prisoner--a trial--perhaps (he added with his portentous and prophetic frown) an execution waits us! Come." "Verily, Tribune," stammered the good Bishop, "this is a strange time for execution!" "Last night was a time yet more strange .-- Come." There was something in the way in which the final word was pronounced, that Raimond could not resist.

He sighed, muttered, twitched his robes, and followed the Tribune.