CHAPTER 12: In Mocenigo's Power.
It was fully an hour before Polani was recalled to the council chamber.
He saw at once, by the flushed and angry faces of some of the council, that the debate had been a hot one.

At this he was not surprised, for he knew that the friends and connections of Ruggiero Mocenigo would vehemently oppose the suggestion he had made.
The doge announced the decision.
"The council thank you for your suggestion, Signor Polani, and have resolved, by a majority, to confer upon Messer Francisco Hammond the high honour of placing his name upon the list of the citizens of Venice, without requiring from him the oaths of allegiance to the state.

As such an honour has never before been conferred, save upon personages of the highest rank, it will be a proof of the gratitude which Venice feels towards one who has done her such distinguished service.

The decree to that effect will be published tomorrow." The merchant retired, highly gratified.

The honour was a great and signal one, and the material advantages considerable.