But our pleasant chat is over,
Signor, Lady Esmondet is making her adieux."
"And you leave so soon, Signora; I am jealous of London. May I see you
again?"
"Surely, Signor; we go many places to take a last loving glance."
"Give me something definite, I pray you."
"Well, the palace of the Vatican on to-morrow morning. I must have
another long look at the painting of the Transfiguration. In the
afternoon a drive in the gardens of the Borghesian villa. In the
evening the theatre and the exquisite voice of Patti. And now what say
you, grave and reverend Signor; will you remember your lesson while I
say _au revoir_," and with a gay smile and a warm pressure of the hand
from Castenelli Miss Vernon, after saying her farewell to Lady
Wyesdale and her daughter, followed her god-mother to the landau.
"You seem to have enjoyed your chat with Signor Castenelli," said Lady
Esmondet, as they drove away; Miss Vernon to pick up Miss Marchmont
for even-song at the Church of St. Augustine, Lady Esmondet for home.
"Yes, he is pleasant to me, as most of his countrymen are; there is a
fervor about them, with all their languor, that is refreshing after
our stoical Briton; I fear me you were not so well placed, the little
Duchess seemed to fasten upon you.
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