IN the evening Bartolomeo returned to the Palace and asked for Checco. At his request Matteo and I joined him in Checco's study, and besides there were his two sons, Scipione and Alessandro. Bartolomeo was graver than ever.
'I have come to you now, Checco, impelled by a very strong sense of duty, and I wish to talk with you on a matter of the greatest importance.'
He cleared his throat.
'Firstly, are you convinced that the attempt on your life was plotted by Girolamo Riario?'
'I am sorry for his sake, but-I am.'
'So are we all, absolutely. And what do you intend to do now?'
'What can I do? Nothing!'
'The answer is not nothing. You have something to do.'
'And that is?'
'To kill Girolamo before he has time to kill you.'
Checco started to his feet.
'They have been talking to you-Ma
