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Fear not, my noble Mistress! I will defend you. In your service bold, Each of your men will ten men's strength possess. Withdraw then, I entreat you, to your tower, And these good folks dismiss. (Pointing to the Mendicants that still remain.)

Rovani, be thou bold, yet be not rash. I warn'd thee well of this; but let that pass: Only be wiser now. There is a leader Of bold condotieri, not far distant, Send to him instantly: there may be time.

I will not: we can well defend these walls 'Gainst greater odds; and I could swear that coward Has number'd, in his fright, Tortona's soldiers Threefold beyond the truth. Go to thy duty: Muster the men within, while I, meantime, From place to place all needful orders give.