Pier Luigi Farnese is not in good odour in the Curia."
"The Sacred College cannot withstand the Pope's desires. He has bribed it
with the undertaking to restore Nepi and Camerino to the States of the
Church in exchange for Parma and Piacenza, which are to form a State for
his son. How long, my lord, do you think the College will resist him?"
"The Spanish Cardinals all have the Emperor's desires at heart."
"The Spanish Cardinals may oppose the measure until they choke themselves
with their vehemence," was the ready answer. "There are enough of the
Pope's creatures to carry the election, and if there were not it would be
his to create more until there should be sufficient for his purpose. It is
an old subterfuge."
"Well, then," said Gonzaga, smiling, "since you are so assured, it is for
you and the nobles of Piacenza to be up and doing. The Emperor depends
upon you; and you may depend upon him."
Galeotto looked at the Governor out of his scarred face, and his eyes were
very grave.
"I had hoped otherwise," he said. "That is why I have been slow to move.
That is why I have waited, why I have even committed the treachery of
permitting Pier Luigi to suppose me ready at need to engage in his
service."
"Ah, there you play a dangerous game," said Gonzaga frankly.
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