OR, THE ANGEL OF VENICE 
37 
 
“ The Angel of Venice has laid down at the summons of 
the Lord 
The wreath and harp and crown, takes up the shield and 
sword.” 
Or—as you will.  Enough—whether one groans or smiles— 
To call me still the Angel of the City of the Isles. 
 
 
 
[They go into the church. 
 
 
SCENE IV.  The Church of St. Mark.  THE DOGE, enthroned, 
surrounded by ecclesiastical dignitaries as for a marriage.  
COUNT MORTADELLO standing on the R. of THE DOGE.  
Many nobles gathered. 
 
THE DOGE.  The bride is late.  You’re sure all’s well ? 
GABRIELE. 
 
I stake my head. 
THE DOGE.  I like not the allure of the aspects.  Dark and red 
Broke forth the sun this morning.  The sultry storm-cloud 
hangs. 
Heavy on Venice, scorning to flesh its lightning fangs. 
She dare not practise malice ? 
GABRIELE. 
 
Be reassured !  I have barred 
All danger.  I’ve her palace surrounded with the guard. 
If she delay, or fail, there’s order to arrest. 
You catch the nightingale if you can find her nest. 
MORTADELLO.  This was your plan, sir, path too darkling for 
my ken. 
Fail ?  God avert the wrath of Mortadello then. 
I will have you inch by inch pushed screaming into hell— 
The rack, the boot, the winch, the thumbscrews . . . 
GABRIELE.  [Laughing.] 
Very well !