'I know that there are others whom they are labouring to seduce. Who these others are I cannot say, nor, with submission, need it matter to your highness. These are the leaders. Once these are crushed, the others will be without direction.' 'A seven-headed hydra, of which these are the heads. If I lop off these heads ...' He paused. 'Yes, yes. But have you heard none others named in these councils?' He leaned forward a little, his eyes intent upon Bellarion's face. 'None who are nearer to me? Think well, Master Bellarion, and be not afraid to name names, however great.' Bellarion perceived here, almost by instinct, the peril of too great a reticence. 'Since they profess to labour on behalf of the Marquis Gian Giacomo, it is natural they should name him. But I have never heard it asserted that he has knowledge of their plot.' 'Nor any other?' The Marquis was singularly insistent. 'Nor any other?' he repeated. Bellarion showed a blank face. 'Why? What other?' 'Nay, sir, I am asking you.' 'No, highness,' he slowly answered. 'I recall the mention of no other.' The Prince sank back into his chair, his searching eyes never quitting the young man's face. Then he committed what in a man so subtle was a monstrous indiscretion, giving Bellarion the explanation that he lacked. 'You are not deep enough in their confidence yet. Return to their councils, and keep me informed of all that transpires in them. Be diligent, and you shall find me generous.' Bellarion was genuinely aghast. 'Your highness will delay to strike when by delay you may imperil ...?' He was sternly silenced. 'Is your counsel sought? You understand what I require of you. You have leave to go.' 'But, highness! To return amongst them now, after openly coming here to you, will not be without its danger.' The regent did not share his alarm. He smiled again. 'You have chosen a path of peril as I told you. But I will help you. I discover that I have letters from Facino humbly soliciting my protection for his adoptive son whilst in Casale. It is a petition I cannot disregard. Facino is a great lord in Milan these days. My court shall be advised of it, and it will not be considered strange that I make you free of the palace. You will persuade your confederates that you avail yourself of my hospitality so that you may abuse it in their interests. That should satisfy them, and I shall look to see you here this evening. Now go with God.'