Alan Crosland

“ None so dreaded as Neri, the sorcerer, whose rare and subtle poisons were distilled in a secret room of the Borgia palace.
"A pity that the Duke della Varnese—worthy gentleman!—will suffer a heart attack before dawn."
"To commemorate the first visit of an Orsini to a Borgia—a little wine?"
"To your devastating charm!"
"Let your lips perfume the wine."
"We Borgia do not share with another."
"Let no man scorn so wise an example, sweet teacher!"
"The rose is richer by a great experience."
"We Borgia approve of cleverness in our friends—we have no clever enemies!" ”

“ If I refuse it means death to you—and a worse fate for me."
"My father accepts."
"It is true, Master—the Orsini are attacked without provocation—their followers killed or imprisoned in St. Angelo—and the Duke della Varnese is threatened!"
"Twice I summoned you and you ignored me—tonight I lay aside my pride and come to you."
"I am going to the Palazzo della Varnese—may I arrive in time!"
"You fool! Do you think Donati will allow any harm to come to—her?"
"Do you think for a moment that I believe you?"
"The wisest man is the easiest to deceive."
"Rome is laughing at you! ”

“ Count Giano Donati—a kinsman of the Borgia—with a roving eye as keen as his sword.
"It is the daughter of the Duke della Varnese—a follower of our enemy, the Orsini."
"Giano dear, your little whims must be gratified. We will include the Duke and his daughter among our guests tonight."
"It is the home of Don Juan—a young Spanish grandee, lately arrived from the University of Pisa."
"He is handsome and rich, illustrious lady, and of most exquisite manners."
"And if rumor does not lie—half the fair ones of Rome have already succumbed to his charm." ”