5 views
Diplomacy (Novel extract)
The extract below is from an early draft of a historical novel I'm writing. Feedback is welcome; I hope you enjoy! ⚜️
The diplomat was plainly dressed in a black doublet with dark red sleeves, unassuming to the common observer. Yet, in his bearing was an elegance and measured self-confidence that transcended his station. He wore an a slight smile, as if restraining amusment at some private thought. Tucked between the rolls of paper under his arm was a small book, bound with fine leather and worn with use; it was clearly precious to him.
He introduced himself with a small bow. "Niccolò Machiavelli, Secretary to the Second Chancery of the Republic of Florence".
"You are most welcome here," Fredrick replied courteously "go on, make your petition."
Niccolò bowed again and began. "Your Grace, while I am but a lowly clerk, not fit to instruct a Prince of your great standing, I carry with me the learnings born of many a lonely hour walking with the ancients. It is...
The diplomat was plainly dressed in a black doublet with dark red sleeves, unassuming to the common observer. Yet, in his bearing was an elegance and measured self-confidence that transcended his station. He wore an a slight smile, as if restraining amusment at some private thought. Tucked between the rolls of paper under his arm was a small book, bound with fine leather and worn with use; it was clearly precious to him.
He introduced himself with a small bow. "Niccolò Machiavelli, Secretary to the Second Chancery of the Republic of Florence".
"You are most welcome here," Fredrick replied courteously "go on, make your petition."
Niccolò bowed again and began. "Your Grace, while I am but a lowly clerk, not fit to instruct a Prince of your great standing, I carry with me the learnings born of many a lonely hour walking with the ancients. It is...
