By means of this damsel he informed his sweetheart of the
deep affection that he bore her; and the poor girl, thinking no harm,
took pleasure in doing him service, believing his purpose to be so good
and virtuous that she might honourably be the carrier of his intentions.
But the Duke, who had more regard for the profit of his house than
for any virtuous affection, was in such great fear lest these dealings
should lead his son (3) into marriage, that he caused a strict watch
to be kept; whereupon he was informed that the poor damsel had been
concerned in carrying some letters from his son to the lady he loved. On
hearing this he was in great wrath, and resolved to take the matter in
hand.
1 This is Francesco Maria I., della Rovere, nephew to Pope
Julius II., by whom he was created Prefect of Rome. Brought
up at the French Court, he became one of the great captains
of the period, especially distinguishing himself in the
command of the Venetian forces during the earlier part of
his career. He married Leonora Ypolita Gonzaga, daughter of
Francesco II., fourth Marquis of Mantua, respecting whom see
_ante_, vol.
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