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transformed by that noble act into a hero; was raised to an equal.

He strode past the trembling Constanza, and laid his hand on Andrea's arm, just as it was lifted for another blow.

"Enough! I would contemplate what is left of this wonderful work, which my friend so highly commends."

Andrea's excitement suddenly subsided; his knees knocked together; a livid hue overspread his countenance, the lids dropped over his glazing eyes, he tottered, and would have fallen, if the pitying Judge had not received him in his arms, and tenderly placed him in a chair.

"Pardon Constanza! visit no wrath upon her," Andrea murmured, faintly.

"She is pardoned," answered the Duke, extending his arms to receive her. The weeping girl gratefully clung to his bosom, but with her eyes fixed imploringly upon her half insensible lover.

"Andrea!" said the Duke, "you have achieved a greater triumph than if your statue had obtained the prize; and you have won a friend whose trust in you, the experience of this hour proves that you will never betray." ****** The Duke had not misjudged the character of the gifted sculptor. Not even his profound passion for Constanza, ever tempted him to return her father's generous confidence with treachery.