A splendid reception was followed by a noble entertainment, whereat all the more notable dignitaries of the city and the principal members of the Platonic Academy assisted.  Among the guests of honour were Archbishop Francesco de’ Salviati, with the Ambassadors—­Giovanni Morino, representing Ferrante, King of Naples; Filippo Sagramoro, the Duke of Milan; and Ercole di Bendio, the Duke of Ferrara.  In special attendance upon Lorenzo, and of ambassadorial rank, were the Cavalieri Agnolo della Stufa, Luigi de’ Guicciardini, Bernardo de’ Buongirolami, and Buongiano de’ Gianfigliazzi, and others.

The conspirators were in a state of the highest expectation that Montesicco and his lieutenant would have no difficulty in finding opportunities to effect their dastardly purpose during the festivities.  They were doomed to disappointment, for at the last moment, and when the banquet was in progress, it was remarked that Giuliano was absent—­he was indisposed and unable to attend the function!

* * * * *

The Sunday following, 26th April, happened to be the name-day of the Cardinal, and he expressed a wish to hear High Mass in Santa Maria del Fiore.  Lorenzo announced his intention of personally conducting his eminence to the Duomo, and requested him to honour the Domina Clarice and himself by attending a State dinner at the Medici Palace, in the Via Larga, at the conclusion of the ceremony.

This was much to the mind of the confederates, for, surely, there would be a favourable opportunity for the execution of the plot.  In secret session it was arranged that, at the moment of the Elevation of the Host, Giovanni Battista da’ Montesicco should stab Lorenzo, whilst Francesco de’ Pazzi and Bernardo Bandino should fall upon Giuliano.

The Condottiere, however, firmly refused to commit the double crime of sacrilege and murder, and, point-blank, declined all further share in the conspiracy.  Here was an entirely unlooked-for situation, and an alternative plan was not easy to arrange.  Francesco de’ Pazzi seemed inclined to step into the breach, but detestation of Lorenzo checked his ardour—­he would not soil his hands with the blood of such a contemptible tyrant, a menial should administer the blow!  There was no lack of volunteers ready to take Montesicco’s place, but excessive caution was requisite that no prominent Florentine conspirator should be chosen, lest suspicion should be aroused.

Finally the two clerical members of the conspiracy, Frati Antonio and Stefano, were entrusted with the grim duty.  The appointment was quite the best that could be made, because, at the Cathedral, Lorenzo and his immediate entourage would be placed with the clergy, within the choir, whereas to the Pazzi and the other confederates places would be assigned outside the screen, among the unofficial congregation.

Everything was in order, the great bell of the Duomo was sounding its invitation, and the sacred building was packed with worshippers and spectators.  In full state Lorenzo, accompanied by Domina Clarice and their Court, led Cardinal Sansoni to his chair of estate by the high altar.