Sword of Freedom1957

[first lines]

[de Medici enters his apartment and finds Machiavelli feeding grapes to a pretty woman]

Duke de Medici:
Enjoying yourself, Master Machiavelli?

Machiavelli:
Welcome home, your excellence! Did you find what you are looking for?

Duke de Medici:
Oh, yes, I found cannon - fine, sturdy brass cannon. I daresay the armorers of the Amelia are as excellent craftsmen as you will find anywhere in Europe.

Machiavelli:
And yet I believe I detect a certain discordant note?

Duke de Medici:
You do - the ring of brass on an empty coffer.

Machiavelli:
And the excellent craftsmen of the Amelia are asking to be paid for their labors.

Duke de Medici:
In gold, before delivery. Machiavelli, I must find that money!