“Alas! it is very likely.”

I need not say that I hastened to remove all traces of the vile prison where I had suffered so much.  When I was ready to go out my first grateful visit was paid to the noble cobbler.  The worthy man was proud of the fulfilment of his prophecy, and glad to see me again.  Donna Ignazia was wild with delight—­perhaps she had not been so sure of my release—­and when Don Diego heard of the satisfaction that had been given me he said that a grandee of Spain could not have asked for more.  I begged the worthy people to come and dine with me, telling them that I would name the day another time, and they accepted gladly.

I felt that my love for Donna Ignazia had increased immensely since our last meeting.

Afterwards I called on Mengs, who with his knowledge of Spanish law expected nothing less than to see me.  When he heard of my triumphant release he overwhelmed me with congratulations.  He was in his Court dress—­an unusual thing with him, and on my asking him the reason he told me that he had been to Don Emmanuel de Roda’s to speak on my behalf, but had not succeeded in obtaining an audience.  He gave me a Venetian letter which had just arrived for me.  I opened it, and found it was from M. Dandolo, and contained an enclosure for M. de Mocenigo.  M. Dandolo said that on reading the enclosed letter the ambassador would have no more scruples about introducing me, as it contained a recommendation from one of the Inquisitors on behalf of the three.

When I told Mengs of this he said it was now in my power to make my fortune in Spain, and that now was the time when all the ministers would be only too anxious to do something for me to make me forget the wrongs I had received.

“I advise you,” he said, “to take the letter to the ambassador immediately.  Take my carriage; after what you have undergone for the last few days you cannot be in a walking humour.”

I had need of rest, and told Mengs that I would not sup with him that night, but would dine with him the next day.  The ambassador was out, so I left the letter with Manucci, and then drove home and slept profoundly for twelve hours.

Manucci came to see me the next day in high spirits, and told me that M. Girolamo Zulian had written to the ambassador on behalf of M. du Mula, informing him that he need not hesitate to countenance me, as any articles the Tribunal might have against me were in no degree prejudicial to my honour.

“The ambassador,” he continued, “proposes to introduce you at Court next week, and he wants you to dine with him to-day; there will be a numerous company at dinner.”

“I am engaged to Mengs.”

“No matter, he shall be asked as well; you must come.  Consider the effect of your presence at the ambassador’s the day after your triumph.”

“You are right.  Go and ask Mengs, and tell the ambassador that I have much pleasure in accepting his invitation.”