Flodoardo.--I know all this, and to know it rejoices me, since it
affords me an opportunity of convincing the Doge of Venice, that my
actions are not those of a common adventurer.
Andreas.--Perform your promise, and then let me hear of you. For
the present our discourse shall end here, for no unpleasant thoughts
must disturb the joy to which this day is dedicated. Rosabella,
would you not like to join the dancers? Count, I confide her to
your care.
Flodoardo.--I could not be entrusted with a more precious charge.
Rosabella, during this conversation, had been leaning against the
back of her uncle's chair. She repeated to herself Lomellino's
assertion, "that to see Flodoardo, and not to like him, was as
difficult as to look at Paradise and not wish to enter;" and while
she gazed on the youth, she allowed that Lomellino had not
exaggerated. When her uncle desired Flodoardo to conduct her to the
dancers, a soft blush overspread her cheek, and she doubted whether
she should accept or decline the hand which was immediately offered.
And to tell you my real opinion, my fair ladies, I suspect that very
few of you would have been more collected than Rosabella, had you
found yourselves similarly situated. In truth, such a form as
Flodoardo's; a countenance whose physiognomy seemed a passport at
once to the hearts of all who examined it; features so exquisitely
fashioned that the artist who wished to execute a model of manly
beauty, had he imitated them, would have had nothing to supply or
improve; features, every one of which spoke so clearly, "The bosom
of this youth contains the heart of a hero.
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