Page:Castruccio Castrucani.pdf/69

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Love nestles in its shadow; and, subdued, Mine enemies are prostrate at my feet. Bear witness, Lucca! in this silent hour, That my first thought is thine; I have not ask'd A transitory name for thee or me; My conquests have but sought to keep our gates Steadfast against a foreign foe; within Have I kept order and security. The iron power, made selfish by the few, Have I subdued, and temper'd in its use. The citizens have learnt to know their strength, And in that strength lies freedom.

(The panel at the back begins to open, and appears. He advances towards, who starts, but instantly composes himself, and appears occupied by the papers on the table.)

I hear the secret lock I thought none knew Turn in the panel, and I hear a step; It is too stealthy for a friendly one— Let me be on my guard—it comes more near. I see a shadow darken on the ground: There is a dagger in the hand. I'll seem Busy among these letters while I watch.

The Count Leoni turn'd assassin? (Throws down the dagger.)