He walked on, no time for pleasure even if it had still been acceptable, no time for any entertainment whilst he grappled with his business woes and the Medicis’ plot to return, though the delightful Ambrosia would say that was a piss-poor excuse for not visiting her bed. The terce bells rang out, as predictable as the Sun’s movement across the sky. These difficult times were sent by God to test his faith. He must not lose sight of what was important. If his plans went well there’d be money soon enough. The thought made Vincenzio step more lightly. He was not beaten yet.

The cathedral bells crescendoed and the sound was uplifting. He set his shoulders squarely and cleared his face into an affable smile. This morning he would turn his attention to the word of God. The Mass would be very busy with all the good families of Florence attending. Who knew what opportunity might present itself?

Ahead he saw groups already gathered in the cathedral square, gentlemen in the tall hats and colours of Florence’s oldest families, and he went to greet Bernardo Rucellai and his associates. His mood sank as he observed the grave demeanour of the circle.

‘He was severely wounded.’

‘Of whom do you speak?’ Vincenzio asked Donato Velluti, a successful lawyer who was also a fine storyteller.

‘A relative of that vermin Piero de’ Medici, discovered on his back in a hovel near the church of San Giorgio,’ Donato answered before crossing himself. ‘Some say it was an old vendetta come back to claim him, but I say this was a traitor’s reward and well deserved.’

Vincenzio felt the blood drain from his face. ‘Does he live?’

‘Why do you care, Vincenzio? If a Medici man is mad enough to defy our city’s laws then he must accept the risk and consequence. No doubt he was here to do some skulduggery set for him by Piero.’

‘The man is dead and there will be an investigation. It is better we do not gossip on this matter.’ Bernardo spoke for them all.

Vincenzio nodded in agreement, furiously scanning the faces around him for signs of suspicion. It must be Roberto of whom they were speaking.

‘We Florentines are tranquil men who seek to maintain peaceful relations with everyone,’ Donato said. ‘The Medici are arrogant and ever since Lorenzo’s death, the family’s activities have become frivolous and dishonourable.’