271-290.] He was aware that Alfonso thought him both malicious and mad.

The first of these opinions, which he knew to be false, he resolved to pass in silence.

But he openly admitted the latter, 'esteeming it no disgrace to make a third to Solon and Brutus.' Therefore he began to act the madman even in Rome, neglecting his health, exposing himself to hardships, and indulging intemperately in food and wine.

By these means, strange as it may seem, he hoped to win back confidence and prove himself a discreet servant of Alfonso.

Soon after reaching Ferrara, Tasso thought that he was gaining ground.