Chapter 39

"Could I gain him," thought Visconti, in his musings, "I could stand without the Empire, without France, and use my captive as I please and not as they dictate." To the Estes and Julia Gonzaga he gave no thought; well he knew they were not likely to desert Mastino--but Carrara---- Meanwhile, he threw his whole strength against the opposing army, keeping it at bay, gaining time--and planning. But Mastino della Scala's object was not to lose time in idle skirmishes. Brilliant success had fallen to his share, not one …