Section 15: Chapter 32, 33 and 34 Summary

In chapter thirty-two, three weeks after Marchese di Vivaldi arrives in Rome, he and Vivaldi are summoned to Schedoni who also demands Nicola's presence. The Marchese recognizes Nicola as the one who slandered Ellena. Vivaldi is outraged that Ellena's father is the author of the infamous slanders. Schedoni appeals to Nicola to retract the slanders. To prevent the Marchese from leaving, Schedoni promises that the vindication of Ellena will be followed by something of consequence to the Marchese. Nicola admits to slandering Ellena, and Schedoni summons the Inquisition, admitting that he accused Vivaldi maliciously. While the Marchese obtains copies of the release papers for Vivaldi, Vivaldi questions Schedoni about Ellena's family. Wondering how Nicola knew about Signora Bianchi's death, Vivaldi asks Schedoni who swears ignorance. Schedoni reveals that there are secret entrances in all of the cells at the...