We crossed the quadrangle, and passing under a second archway came into the
inner bailey as we had been bidden. Here we were met by Confalonieri, who
also had half a dozen men with him. He greeted us, and issued his orders
sharply.
"You, Ser Agostino, are to come with us, whilst you others are to remain
here until Messer Landi arrives with the remainder of our forces. He
should have a score of men with him, and they will cut down the guard when
they enter. The moment that is done let a pistol-shot be discharged as the
signal to us above, and proceed immediately to take up the bridge and
overpower the Swiss who should still be at table. Landi has his orders and
knows how to act."
The Pallavicini briefly spoke their assents, and Confalonieri, taking me by
the arm, led me quickly above-stairs, his half-dozen men following close
upon our heels. Upon none was there any sign of armour. But every man
wore a shirt of mail under his doublet or jerkin.
We entered the ante-chamber--a fine, lofty apartment, richly hung and
richly furnished. It was empty of courtiers, for all were gone to dine
with the captain of the guard, who had been married upon that very morning
and was giving a banquet in honour of the event, as Galeotto had informed
himself when he appointed the day.
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