MEMOIRS OF JACQUES CASANOVA de SEINGALT 1725-1798

TO PARIS AND PRISON, Volume 2d--The False Nun

THE RARE UNABRIDGED LONDON EDITION OF 1894 TRANSLATED BY ARTHUR MACHEN TOWHICH HAS BEEN ADDED THE CHAPTERS DISCOVERED BY ARTHUR SYMONS. 

THE FALSE NUN

CHAPTER XXI

Supper at My Casino With M. M. And M. De Bernis, the French Ambassador--AProposal from M. M. ; I Accept It--Consequences--C. C. Is Unfaithful toMe, and I Cannot Complain

I felt highly pleased with the supper-party I had arranged withM---- M----, and I ought to have been happy. Yet I was not so; but whencecame the anxiety which was a torment to me? Whence? From my fatal habitof gambling. That passion was rooted in me; to live and to play were tome two identical things, and as I could not hold the bank I would go andpunt at the ridotto, where I lost my money morning and night. That stateof things made me miserable. Perhaps someone will say to me:

"Why did you play, when there was no need of it, when you were in want ofnothing, when you had all the money you could wish to satisfy yourfancies?"

That would be a troublesome question if I had not made it a law to tellthe truth. Well, then, dear inquisitive reader, if I played with almostthe certainty of losing, although no one, perhaps, was more sensible thanI was to the losses made in gambling, it is because I had in me the evilspirit of avarice; it is because I loved prodigality, and because myheart bled when I found myself compelled to spend any money that I hadnot won at the gaming-table. It is an ugly vice, dear reader, I do notdeny it. However, all I can say is that, during the four days previous tothe supper, I lost all the gold won for me by M---- M----

On the anxiously-expected day I went to my casino, where at the appointedhour M---- M---- came with her friend, whom she introduced to me as soon ashe had taken off his mask. 

"I had an ardent wish, sir, " said M. De Bernis to me, "to renewacquaintance with you, since I heard from madame that we had known eachother in Paris. "

With these words he looked at me attentively, as people will do when theyare trying to recollect a person whom they have lost sight of. I thentold him that we had never spoken to one another, and that he had notseen enough of me to recollect my features now. 

"I had the honour, " I added, "to dine with your excellency at M. DeMocenigo's house, but you talked all the time with Marshal Keith, thePrussian ambassador, and I was not fortunate enough to attract yourattention. As you were on the point of leaving Paris to return to Venice, you went away almost immediately after dinner, and I have never had thehonour of seeing you since that time. "

"Now I recollect you, " he answered, "and I remember asking whether youwere not the secretary of the embassy. But from this day we shall notforget each other again, for the mysteries which unite us are of a naturelikely to establish a lasting intimacy between us. "

The amiable couple were not long before they felt thoroughly at ease, andwe sat down to supper, of which, of course, I did the honours. Theambassador, a fine connoisseur in wines, found mine excellent, and wasdelighted to hear that I had them from Count Algarotti, who was reputedas having the best cellar in Venice. 

My supper was delicate and abundant, and my manners towards my handsomeguests were those of a private individual receiving his sovereign and hismistress. I saw that M---- M---- was charmed with the respect with which Itreated her, and with my conversation, which evidently interested theambassador highly. The serious character of a first meeting did notprevent the utterance of witty jests, for in that respect M. De Berniswas a true Frenchman. I have travelled much, I have deeply studied men, individually and in a body, but I have never met with true sociabilityexcept in Frenchmen; they alone know how to jest, and it is rare, delicate, refined jesting, which animates conversation and makes societycharming. 

During our delightful supper wit was never wanting, and the amiableM---- M---- led the conversation to the romantic combination which hadgiven her occasion to know me. Naturally, she proceeded to speak of mypassion for C---- C----, and she gave such an interesting description ofthat young girl that the ambassador listened with as much attention as ifhe had never seen the object of it. But that was his part, for he was notaware that I had been informed of his having witnessed from hishiding-place my silly interview with C---- C----. He told M---- M---- thathe would have been delighted if she had brought her young friend to supwith us. 

"That would be running too great a risk, " answered the cunning nun, "butif you approve of it, " she added, looking at me, "I can make you sup withher at my casino, for we sleep in the same room. "

That offer surprised me much, but it was not the moment to shew it, so Ireplied:

"It is impossible, madam, to add anything to the pleasure of yoursociety, yet I confess I should be pleased if you could contrive to do usthat great favour:"

"Well, I will think of it. "

"But, " observed the ambassador, "if I am to be one of the party, I thinkit would be right to apprize the young lady of it. "

"It is not necessary, for I will write to her to agree to whatever madammay propose to her. I will do so to-morrow. "

I begged the ambassador to prepare himself with a good stock ofindulgence for a girl of fifteen who had no experience of the world. Inthe course of the evening I related the history of O-Morphi, whichgreatly amused him. He entreated me to let him see her portrait. Heinformed me that she was still an inmate of the 'Parc-aux-cerfs', whereshe continued to be the delight of Louis XV. , to whom she had given achild. My guests left me after midnight, highly pleased, and I remainedalone. 

The next morning, faithful to the promise I had made to my beautiful nun, I wrote to C---- C---- without informing her that there would be a fourthperson at the projected supper, and having given my note to Laura Irepaired to Muran, where I found the following letter from M---- M---- :

"I could not sleep soundly, my love, if I did not ease my conscience ofan unpleasant weight. Perhaps you did not approve of the 'partie carree'with our young friend, and you may not have objected out of merepoliteness. Tell me the truth, dearest, for, should you not look forwardto that meeting with pleasure, I can contrive to undo it withoutimplicating you in any way; trust me for that. If, however, you have noobjection to the party, it will take place as agreed. Believe me, I loveyour soul more than your heart--I mean than your person. Adieu. "

Her fear was very natural, but out of shamefacedness I did not like toretract. M---- M---- knew me well, and as a skilful tactician she attackedmy weak side. 

Here is my answer:

"I expected your letter, my best beloved, and you cannot doubt it, because, as you know me thoroughly, you must be aware that I know you aswell. Yes, I know your mind, and I know what idea you must entertain ofmine, because I have exposed to you all my weakness and irritability bymy sophisms. I do penance for it, dearest, when I think that havingraised your suspicions your tenderness for me must have been weakened. Forget my visions, I beg, and be quite certain that for the future mysoul will be in unison with yours. The supper must take place, it will bea pleasure for me, but let me confess that in accepting it I have shewnmyself more grateful than polite. C---- C---- is a novice, and I am notsorry to give her an opportunity of seeing the world. In what schoolcould she learn better than yours? Therefore I recommend her to you, andyou will please me much by continuing to shew your care and friendshiptowards her, and by increasing, if possible, the sum of your goodness. Ifear that you may entice her to take the veil, and if she did I wouldnever console myself. Your friend has quite captivated me; he is asuperior man, and truly charming. "

Thus did I wittingly deprive myself of the power of drawing back, but Iwas able to realize the full force of the situation. I had no difficultyin guessing that the ambassador was in love with C---- C----, and that hehad confessed as much to M---- M----, who, not being in a position toobject to it, was compelled to shew herself compliant, and to assist himin everything that could render his passion successful. She couldcertainly not do anything without my consent, and she had evidentlyconsidered the affair too delicate to venture upon proposing the partypoint-blank to me. They had, no doubt, put their heads together, so thatby bringing the conversation on that subject I should find myselfcompelled, for the sake of politeness and perhaps of my inward feelings, to fall into the snare. The ambassador, whose profession it was to carryon intrigues skilfully, had succeeded well, and I had taken the bait ashe wished. There was nothing left for me but to put a good face on thematter, not only so as not to shew myself a very silly being, but also inorder not to prove myself shamefully ungrateful towards a man who hadgranted me unheard-of privileges. Nevertheless, the consequence of it allwas likely to be some coolness in my feelings towards both my mistresses. M---- M---- had become conscious of this after she had returned to theconvent, and wishing to screen herself from all responsibility she hadlost no time in writing to me that she would cause the projected supperto be abandoned, in case I should disapprove of it, but she knew verywell that I would not accept her offer. Self-love is a stronger passioneven than jealousy; it does not allow a man who has some pretension towit to shew himself jealous, particularly towards a person who is nottainted by that base passion, and has proved it. 

The next day, having gone early to the casino, I found the ambassadoralready there, and he welcomed me in the most friendly manner. He told methat, if he had known me in Paris he would have introduced me at thecourt, where I should certainly have made my fortune. Now, when I thinkof that, I say to myself, "That might have been the case, but of whatgood would it have been to me?" Perhaps I should have fallen a victim ofthe Revolution, like so many others. M. De Bernis himself would have beenone of those victims if Fate had not allowed him to die in Rome in 1794. He died there unhappy, although wealthy, unless his feelings hadundergone a complete change before his death, and I do not believe it. 

I asked him whether he liked Venice, and he answered that he could not dootherwise than like that city, in which he enjoyed excellent health, andin which, with plenty of money, life could be enjoyed better thananywhere else. 

"But I do not expect, " he added, "to be allowed to keep this embassy verylong. Be kind enough to let that remain between us. I do not wish to makeM---- M---- unhappy. "

We were conversing in all confidence when M---- M---- arrived with heryoung friend, who showed her surprise at seeing another man with me, butI encouraged her by the most tender welcome; and she recovered all hercomposure when she saw the delight of the stranger at being answered byher in good French. It gave us both an opportunity of paying the warmestcompliments to the mistress who had taught her so well. 

C---- C---- was truly charming; her looks, bright and modest at the sametime, seemed to say to me, "You must belong to me:" I wished to see hershine before our friends; and I contrived to conquer a cowardly feelingof jealousy which, in spite of myself, was beginning to get hold of me. Itook care to make her talk on such subjects as I knew to be familiar toher. I developed her natural intelligence, and had the satisfaction ofseeing her admired. 

Applauded, flattered, animated by the satisfaction she could read in myeyes, C---- C---- appeared a prodigy to M. De Bernis, and, oh! what acontradiction of the human heart! I was pleased, yet I trembled lest heshould fall in love with her! What an enigma! I was intent myself upon awork which would have caused me to murder any man who dared to undertakeit. 

During the supper, which was worthy of a king, the ambassador treatedC---- C---- with the most delicate attentions. Wit, cheerfulness, decentmanners, attended our delightful party, and did not expel the gaiety andthe merry jests with which a Frenchman knows how to season everyconversation. 

An observing critic who, without being acquainted with us, wished toguess whether love was present at our happy party, might have suspected, perhaps, but he certainly could not have affirmed, that it was there. M---- M---- treated the ambassador as a friend. She shewed no other feelingtowards me than that of deep esteem, and she behaved to C---- C---- withthe tender affection of a sister. M. De Bernis was kind, polite, andamiable with M---- M----, but he never ceased to take the greatestinterest in every word uttered by C---- C----, who played her part toperfection, because she had only to follow her own nature, and, thatnature being beautiful, C---- C---- could not fail to be most charming. 

We had passed five delightful hours, and the ambassador seemed morepleased even than any of us. M---- M---- had the air of a person satisfiedwith her own work, and I was playing the part of an approving spectator. C---- C---- looked highly pleased at having secured the generalapprobation, and there was, perhaps, a slight feeling of vanity in herarising from the special attention which the ambassador had bestowed onher. She looked at me, smiling, and I could easily understand thelanguage of her soul, by which she wished to tell me that she feltperfectly well the difference between the society in which she was then, and that in which her brother had given us such a disgusting specimen ofhis depravity. 

After midnight it was time to think of our departure, and M. De Bernisundertook all the complimentary part. Thanking M---- M---- for the mostagreeable supper he had ever made in his life, he contrived to make heroffer a repetition of it for two days afterwards, and he asked me, forthe sake of appearance, whether I should not find as much delight in thatsecond meeting as himself. Could he have any doubt of my answeringaffirmatively? I believe not, for I had placed myself under the necessityof being compliant. All being agreed, we parted company. 

The next day, when I thought of that exemplary supper, I had nodifficulty in guessing what the ultimate result would be. The ambassadorowed his great fortune entirely to the fair sex, because he possessed tothe highest degree the art of coddling love; and as his nature waseminently voluptuous he found his advantage in it, because he knew how tocall desires into existence, and this procured him enjoyments worthy ofhis delicate taste. I saw that he was deeply in love with C---- C----, andI was far from supposing him the man to be satisfied with looking at herlovely eyes. He certainly had some plan arranged, and M---- M----, inspite of all her honesty, was the prime manager of it. I knew that shewould carry it on with such delicate skill that I should not see anyevidence of it. Although I did not feel disposed to shew more compliancethan was strictly just, I foresaw that in the end I should be the dupe, and my poor C---- C---- the victim, of a cunningly-contrived trick. I couldnot make up my mind either to consent with a good grace, or to throwobstacles in the way, and, believing my dear little wife incapable ofabandoning herself to anything likely to displease me, I allowed myselfto be taken off my guard, and to rely upon the difficulty of seducingher. Stupid calculation! Self-love and shamefacedness prevented me fromusing my common sense. At all events, that intrigue kept me in a state offever because I was afraid of its consequences, and yet curiositymastered me to such an extent that I was longing for the result. I knewvery well that a second edition of the supper did not imply that the sameplay would be performed a second time, and I foresaw that the changeswould be strongly marked. But I thought myself bound in honour not toretract. I could not lead the intrigue, but I believed myselfsufficiently skilful to baffle all their manoeuvrings. 

After all those considerations, however, considerations which enabled meto assume the countenance of false bravery, the inexperience ofC---- C----, who, in spite of all the knowledge she had lately acquired, was only a novice, caused me great anxiety. It was easy to abuse hernatural wish to be polite, but that fear gave way very soon before theconfidence I had in M---- M---- s delicacy. I thought that, having seen howI had spent six hours with that young girl, knowing for a certainty thatI intended to marry her, M---- M---- would never be guilty of such basetreason. All these thoughts, worthy only of a weak and bashful jealousy, brought no conclusive decision. I had to follow the current and watchevents. 

At the appointed time I repaired to the casino, where I found my twolovely friends sitting by the fire. 

"Good evening, my two divinities, where is our charming Frenchman?"

"He has not arrived yet, " answered M---- M----, "but he will doubtlesssoon be here. "

I took off my mask, and sitting between them, I gave them a thousandkisses, taking good care not to shew any preference, and although I knewthat they were aware of the unquestionable right I had upon both of them, I kept within the limits of the utmost decency. I congratulated them uponthe mutual inclination they felt for each other, and I saw that they werepleased not to have to blush on that account. 

More than one hour was spent in gallant and friendly conversation, without my giving any satisfaction to my burning desires. M---M---- attracted me more than C---- C----, but I would not for the worldhave offended the charming girl. M---- M---- was beginning to shew someanxiety about the absence of M. De Bernis, when the door-keeper broughther a note from him. 

"A courier, " he wrote, "who arrived two hours ago, prevents my beinghappy to-night, for I am compelled to pass it in answering the dispatchesI have received. I trust that you will forgive and pity me. May I hopethat you will kindly grant me on Friday the pleasure of which I am sounfortunately deprived to-day? Let me know your answer by to-morrow. Iwish ardently, in that case, to find you with the same guests, to whom Ibeg you will present my affectionate compliments. "

"Well, " said M---- M----, "it is not his fault. We will sup without him. Will you come on Friday?"

"Yes, with the greatest pleasure. But what is the matter with you, dearC---- C----? You look sad. "

"Sad, no, unless it should be for the sake of my friend, for I have neverseen a more polite and more obliging gentleman. "

"Very well, dear, I am glad he has rendered you so sensible. "

"What do you mean? Could anyone be insensible to his merit?"

"Better still, but I agree with you. Only tell me if you love him?"

"Well, even if I loved him, do you think I would go and tell him?Besides, I am certain that he loves my friend. "

So saying, she sat down on M---- M----'s knee, calling her her own littlewife, and my two beauties began to bestow on one another caresses whichmade me laugh heartily. Far from troubling their sport, I excited them, in order to enjoy a spectacle with which I had long been acquainted. 

M---- M---- took up a book full of the most lascivious engravings, andsaid, with a significant glance in my direction:

"Do you wish me to have a fire lighted in the alcove?"

I understood her, and replied:

"You would oblige me, for the bed being large we can all three sleepcomfortably in it. "

I guessed that she feared my suspecting the ambassador of enjoying fromthe mysterious closet the sight of our amorous trio, and she wished todestroy that suspicion by her proposal. 

The table having been laid in front of the alcove, supper was served, andwe all did honour to it. We were all blessed with a devouring appetite. While M---- M---- was teaching her friend how to mix punch, I was admiringwith delight the progress made in beauty by C---- C----. 

"Your bosom, " I said to her, "must have become perfect during the lastnine months. "

"It is like mine, " answered M---- M----, "would you like to see foryourself?"

Of course I did not refuse. M---- M---- unlaced her friend, who made noresistance, and performing afterwards the same office upon herself, inless than two minutes I was admiring four rivals contending for thegolden apple like the three goddesses, and which would have set atdefiance the handsome Paris himself to adjudge the prize withoutinjustice. Need I say what an ardent fire that ravishing sight sentcoursing through my veins? I placed immediately an the table the Academiedes Dames, and pointed out a certain position to M---- M----, who, understanding my wishes, said to C---- C---- :

"Will you, darling, represent that group with me?"

A look of compliance was C---- C----'s only answer; she was not yet inuredto amorous pleasures as much as her lovely teacher. While I was laughingwith delight, the two friends were getting ready, and in a few minutes wewere all three in bed, and in a state of nature. At first, satisfied withenjoying the sight of the barren contest of my two bacchanalians, I wasamused by their efforts and by the contrast of colours, for one was darkand the other fair, but soon, excited myself, and consumed by all thefire of voluptuousness, I threw myself upon them, and I made them, oneafter the other, almost faint away from the excess of love and enjoyment. 

Worn out and satiated with pleasure, I invited them to take some rest. Weslept until we were awakened by the alarum, which I had taken care to setat four o'clock. We were certain of turning to good account the two hourswe had then to spare before parting company, which we did at the dawn ofday, humiliated at having to confess our exhaustion, but highly pleasedwith each other, and longing for a renewal of our delightful pleasures. 

The next day, however, when I came to think of that rather too livelynight, during which, as is generally the case, Love had routed Reason, Ifelt some remorse. M---- M---- wanted to convince me of her love, and forthat purpose she had combined all the virtues which I attached to my ownaffection--namely, honour, delicacy, and truth, but her temperament, ofwhich her mind was the slave, carried her towards excess, and sheprepared everything in order to give way to it, while she awaited theopportunity of making me her accomplice. She was coaxing love to make itcompliant, and to succeed in mastering it, because her heart, enslaved byher senses, never reproached her. She likewise tried to deceive herselfby endeavouring to forget that I might complain of having been surprised. She knew that to utter such a complaint I would have to acknowledgemyself weaker or less courageous than she was, and she relied upon mybeing ashamed to make such a confession. I had no doubt whatever that theabsence of the ambassador had been arranged and concerted beforehand. Icould see still further, for it seemed evident to me that the twoconspirators had foreseen that I would guess the artifice, and that, feeling stung to the quick, in spite of all my regrets, I would not shewmyself less generous than they had been themselves. The ambassador havingfirst procured me a delightful night, how could I refuse to let him enjoyas pleasant a one? My friends had argued very well, for, in spite of allthe objections of my mind, I saw that I could not on my side put anyobstacle in their way. C---- C---- was no impediment to them. They werecertain of conquering her the moment she was not hindered by my presence. It rested entirely with M---- M----, who had perfect control over her. Poor girl! I saw her on the high road to debauchery, and it was my owndoing! I sighed when I thought how little I had spared them in our lastorgie, and what would become of me if both of them should happen to be, by my doing, in such a position as to be compelled to run away from theconvent? I could imagine both of them thrown upon my hands, and theprospect was not particularly agreeable. It would be an 'embarras derichesse'. In this miserable contest between reason and prejudice, between nature and sentiment, I could not make up my mind either to go tothe supper or to remain absent from it. "If I go, " said I to myself, "that night will pass with perfect decency, but I shall prove myself veryridiculous, jealous, ungrateful, and even wanting in common politeness:if I remain absent, C---- C---- is lost, at least, in my estimation, for Ifeel that my love will no longer exist, and then good-bye to all idea ofa marriage with her. " In the perplexity of mind in which I found myself, I felt a want of something more certain than mere probabilities to basemy decision upon. I put on my mask, and repaired to the mansion of theFrench ambassador. I addressed myself to the gate-keeper, saying that Ihad a letter for Versailles, and that I would thank him to deliver it tothe courier when he went back to France with his excellency's dispatches. 

"But, sir, " answered the man, "we have not had a special courier for thelast two months:"

"What? Did not a special cabinet messenger arrive here last night?"

"Then he must have come in through the garret window or down the chimney, for, on the word of an honest man, none entered through the gate. "

"But the ambassador worked all night?"

"That may be, sir, but not here, for his excellency dined with theSpanish ambassador, and did not return till very late:"

I had guessed rightly. I could no longer entertain any doubt. It was allover; I could not draw back without shame. C---- C---- must resist, if thegame was distasteful to her; no violence would of course be offered toher. The die was cast!

Towards evening I went to the casino of Muran, and wrote a short note toM---- M----, requesting her to excuse me if some important business of M. De Bragadin's prevented me from spending the night with her and with ourtwo friends, to whom I sent my compliments as well as my apologies. Afterthat I returned to Venice, but in rather an unpleasant mood; to divertmyself I went to the gaming table, and lost all night. 

Two days afterwards, being certain that a letter from M---- M---- awaitedme at Muran, I went over, and the door-keeper handed me a parcel in whichI found a note from my nun and a letter from C---- C----, for everythingwas now in common between them. 

Here is C---- C----'s letter. "

"We were very sorry, dearest friend, when we heard that we should nothave the happiness of seeing you. My dear M---- M----'s friend cameshortly afterwards, and when he read your note he likewise expressed hisdeep regret. We expected to have a very dull supper, but the wittysayings of that gentleman enlivened us and you cannot imagine of whatfollies we were guilty after partaking of some champagne punch. Ourfriend had become as gay as ourselves, and we spent the night in trios, not very fatiguing, but very pleasant. I can assure you that that mandeserves to be loved, but he must acknowledge himself inferior to you ineverything. Believe me, dearest, I shall ever love you, and you must forever remain the master of my heart. "

In spite of all my vexation, that letter made me laugh, but the note ofM---- M---- was much more singular. Here are the contents of it:

"I am certain, my own beloved, that you told a story out of purepoliteness, but you had guessed that I expected you to do so. You havemade our friend a splendid present in exchange for the one he made youwhen he did not object to his M---- M---- bestowing her heart upon you. Youpossess that heart entirely, dearest, and you would possess it under allcircumstances, but how sweet it is to flavour the pleasures of love withthe charms of friendship! I was sorry not to see you, but I knew that ifyou had come we would not have had much enjoyment; for our friend, notwithstanding all his wit, is not exempt from some natural prejudices. As for C---- C----, her mind is now quite as free of them as our own, andI am glad she owes it to me. You must feel thankful to me for havingcompleted her education, and for rendering her in every way worthy ofyou. I wish you had been hiding in the closet, where I am certain youwould have spent some delightful hours. On Wednesday next I shall beyours, and all alone with you in your casino in Venice; let me knowwhether you will be at the usual hour near the statue of the heroColleoni. In case you should be prevented, name any other day. "

I had to answer those two letters in the same spirit in which they hadbeen written, and in spite of all the bitter feelings which were thenraging in my heart, my answers were to be as sweet as honey. I was inneed of great courage, but I said to myself: "George Dandin, tu lasvoulu!" I could not refuse to pay the penalty of my own deeds, and I havenever been able to ascertain whether the shame I felt was what is calledshamefacedness. It is a problem which I leave to others. 

In my letter to C---- C---- I had the courage, or the effrontery, tocongratulate her, and to encourage her to imitate M---- M----, the bestmodel, I said, I could propose to her. 

I wrote to my nun that I would be punctual at the appointment near thestatue, and amidst many false compliments, which ought to have betrayedthe true state of my heart, I told her that I admired the perfecteducation she had given to C---- C----, but that I congratulated myselfupon having escaped the torture I should have suffered in the mysteriousobservatory, for I felt that I could not have borne it. 

On the Wednesday I was punctual at the rendezvous, and I had not to waitlong for M---- M----, who came disguised in male attire. "No theatreto-night, " she said to me; "let us go to the 'ridotto', to lose or doubleour money. " She had six hundred sequins. I had about one hundred. Fortuneturned her back upon us, and we lost all. I expected that we would thenleave that cutthroat place, but M---- M----, having left me for a minute, came back with three hundred sequins which had been given to her by herfriend, whom she knew where to find. That money given by love or byfriendship brought her luck for a short time, and she soon won back allwe had lost, but in our greediness or imprudence we continued to play, and finally we lost our last sequin. 

When we could play no longer, M---- M---- said to me, "Now that we need not fear thieves, let us go to our supper. "

That woman, religious and a Free-thinker, a libertine and gambler, waswonderful in all she did. She had just lost five hundred pounds, and shewas as completely at her ease as if she had won a very large sum. It istrue that the money she had just lost had not cost her much. 

As soon as we were alone, she found me sad and low-spirited, although Itried hard not to appear so, but, as for her, always the same, she washandsome, brilliant, cheerful, and amorous. 

She thought she would bring back my spirits by giving me the fullestparticulars of the night she had passed with C---- C---- and her friend, but she ought to have guessed that she was going the wrong way. That is avery common error, it comes from the mind, because people imagine thatwhat they feel themselves others must feel likewise. 

I was on thorns, and I tried everything to avoid that subject, and tolead the conversation into a different channel, for the amorousparticulars, on which she was dwelling with apparent delight, vexed megreatly, and spite causing coldness, I was afraid of not playing my partvery warmly in the amorous contest which was at hand. When a lover doubtshis own strength, he may almost always be sure that he will fail in hisefforts. 

After supper we went to bed in the alcove, where the beauty, the mentaland physical charms, the grace and the ardour of my lovely nun, cast allmy bad temper to the winds, and soon restored me to my usualgood-spirits. The nights being shorter we spent two hours in the mostdelightful pleasures, and then parted, satisfied and full of love. 

Before leaving, M---- M---- asked me to go to her casino, to take somemoney and to play, taking her for my partner. I did so. I took all thegold I found, and playing the martingale, and doubling my stakescontinuously, I won every day during the remainder of the carnival. I wasfortunate enough never to lose the sixth card, and, if I had lost it, Ishould have been without money to play, for I had two thousand sequins onthat card. I congratulated myself upon having increased the treasure ofmy dear mistress, who wrote to me that, for the sake of civility, weought to have a supper 'en partie carree' on Shrove Monday. I consented. 

That supper was the last I ever had in my life with C---- C----. She wasin excellent spirits, but I had made up my mind, and as I paid all myattentions to M---- M----, C---- C---- imitated my example withoutdifficulty, and she devoted herself wholly to her new lover. 

Foreseeing that we would, a little later, be all of us in each other'sway, I begged M---- M---- to arrange everything so that we could be apart, and she contrived it marvellously well. 

After supper, the ambassador proposed a game of faro, which our beautiesdid not know; he called for cards, and placed one hundred Louis on thetable before him; he dealt, and took care to make C---- C---- win the wholeof that sum. It was the best way to make her accept it as pin-money. Theyoung girl, dazzled by so much gold, and not knowing what to do with it, asked her friend to take care of it for her until such time as she shouldleave the convent to get married. 

When the game was over, M---- M---- complained of a headache, and said thatshe would go to bed in the alcove: she asked me to come and lull her tosleep. We thus left the new lovers free to be as gay as they chose. Sixhours afterwards, when the alarum warned us that it was time to part, wefound them asleep in each other's embrace. I had myself passed an amorousand quiet night, pleased with M---- M----, and with out giving one thoughtto C---- C----. 

CHAPTER XXII

M. De Bernis Goes Away Leaving Me the Use of His Casino--His Good Advice:How I Follow It--Peril of M. M. And Myself--Mr. Murray, the EnglishAmbassador--Sale of the Casino and End of Our Meetings--Serious Illnessof M. M. --Zorzi and Condulmer--Tonnie

Though the infidelities of C---- C---- made me look at her with other eyesthan before, and I had now no intention of making her the companion of mylife, I could not help feeling that it had rested with me to stop her onthe brink of the stream, and I therefore considered it my duty always tobe her friend. 

If I had been more logical, the resolution I took with respect to herwould doubtless have been of another kind. I should have said to myself:After seducing her, I myself have set the example of infidelity; I havebidden her to follow blindly the advice of her friend, although I knewthat the advice and the example of M---M---- would end in her ruin; I hadinsulted, in the most grievous manner, the delicacy of my mistress, andthat before her very eyes, and after all this how could I ask a weakwoman to do what a man, priding himself on his strength, would shrinkfrom at tempting? I should have stood self-condemned, and have felt thatit was my duty to remain the same to her, but flattering myself that Iwas overcoming mere prejudices, I was in fact that most degraded ofslaves, he who uses his strength to crush the weak. 

The day after Shrove Tuesday, going to the casino of Muran, I found therea letter from M---- M----, who gave me two pieces of bad news: thatC---- C---- had lost her mother, and that the poor girl was in despair; andthat the lay-sister, whose rheum was cured, had returned to take herplace. Thus C---- C---- was deprived of her friend at a time when she wouldhave given her consolation, of which she stood in great need. C---- C----, it seemed, had gone to share the rooms of her aunt, who, being very fondof her, had obtained permission from the superior. This circumstancewould prevent the ambassador taking any more suppers with her, and Ishould have been delighted if chance had put this obstacle in his path afew days sooner. 

All these misfortunes seemed of small account com pared with what I wasafraid of, for C---- C---- might have to pay the price for her pleasures, and I so far regarded myself as the origin of her unhappiness as to feelbound never to abandon her, and this might have involved me in terriblecomplications. 

M---- M---- asked me to sup with her and her lover on the following Monday. I went and found them both sad--he for the loss of his new mistress, andshe because she had no longer a friend to make the seclusion of theconvent pleasant. 

About midnight M. De Bemis left us, saying in a melancholy manner that hefeared he should be obliged to pass several months in Vienna on importantdiplomatic business. Before parting we agreed to sup together everyFriday. 

When we were alone M---- M---- told me that the ambassador would be obligedto me if in the future I would come to the casino two hours later. Iunderstood that the good-natured and witty profligate had a very naturalprejudice against indulging his amorous feelings except when he wascertain of being alone. 

M. De Bemis came to all our suppers till he left for Vienna, and alwayswent away at midnight. He no longer made use of his hiding-place, partlybecause we now only lay in the recess, and partly because, having hadtime to make love before my arrival, his desires were appeased. M---- M---- always found me amorous. My love, indeed, was even hotter thanit had been, since, only seeing her once a week and remaining faithful toher, I had always an abundant harvest to gather in. C---- C----'s letterswhich she brought to me softened me to tears, for she said that after theloss of her mother she could not count upon the friendship of any of herrelations. She called me her sole friend, her only protector, and inspeaking of her grief in not being able to see me any more whilst sheremained in the convent, she begged me to remain faithful to her dearfriend. 

On Good Friday, when I got to the casino, I found the lovers over-whelmedwith grief. Supper was served, but the ambassador, downcast and absent, neither ate nor spoke; and M---- M---- was like a statue that moves atintervals by some mechanism. Good sense and ordinary politeness preventedme from asking any questions, but on M---- M---- leaving us together, M. DeBemis told me that she was distressed, and with reason, since he wasobliged to set out for Vienna fifteen days after Easter. "I may tell youconfidentially, " he added, "that I believe I shall scarcely be able toreturn, but she must not be told, as she would be in despair. "M---- M---- came back in a few minutes, but it was easy to see that she hadbeen weeping. 

After some commonplace conversation, M. De Bernis, seeing M---- M---- stilllow-spirited, said, "Do not grieve thus, sweetheart, go I must, but my return is a matter ofequal certainty when I have finished the important business which summonsme to Vienna. You will still have the casino, but, dearest, bothfriendship and prudence make me advise you not to come here in myabsence, for after I have left Venice I cannot depend upon the faith ofthe gondoliers in my service, and I suspect our friend here cannotflatter himself on his ability to get reliable ones. I may also tell youthat I have strong reasons for suspecting that our intercourse is knownto the State Inquisitors, who conceal their knowledge for politicalreasons, but I fancy the secret would soon come to light when I am nolonger here, and when the nun who connives at your departure from theconvent knows that it is no longer for me that you leave it. The onlypeople whom I would trust are the housekeeper and his wife. I shall orderthem, before I go, to look upon our friend here as myself, and you canmake your arrangements with them. I trust all will go well till myreturn, if you will only behave discreetly. I will write to you undercover of the housekeeper, his wife will give you my letters as before, and in the same way you may reply. I must needs go, dearest one, but myheart is with you, and I leave you, till my return, in the hands of afriend, whom I rejoice to have known. He loves you, he has a heart andknowledge of the world, and he will not let you make any mistakes. "

M---- M---- was so affected by what the ambassador had said that sheentreated us to let her go, as she wished to be alone and to lie down. Asshe went we agreed to sup together on the following Thursday. 

As soon as we were alone the ambassador impressed me with the absolutenecessity of concealing from her that he was going to return no more. "Iam going, " said he, "to work in concert with the Austrian cabinet on atreaty which will be the talk of Europe. I entreat you to write to meunreservedly, and as a friend, and if you love our common mistress, havea care for her honour, and above all have the strength of mind to resistall projects which are certain to involve you in misfortune, and whichwill be equally fatal to both. You know what happened to Madame de Riva, a nun in the convent of St. ----. She had to disappear after it becameknown that she was with child, and M. De Frulai, my predecessor, wentmad, and died shortly after. J. J. Rousseau told me that he died ofpoison, but he is a visionary who sees the black side of everything. Formy part, I believe that he died of grief at not being able to do anythingfor the unfortunate woman, who afterwards procured a dispensation fromher vows from the Pope, and having got married is now living at Paduawithout any position in society. 

"Let the prudent and loyal friend master the lover: go and seeM---- M---- sometimes in the parlour of the convent, but not here, or theboatmen will betray you. The knowledge which we both have that the girlsare in a satisfactory condition is a great alleviation to my distress, but you must confess that you have been very imprudent. You have risked aterrible misfortune; consider the position you would have been in, for Iam sure you would not have abandoned her. She had an idea that the dangermight be overcome by means of drugs but I convinced her that she wasmistaken. In God's name, be discreet in the future, and write to mefully, for I shall always be interested in her fate, both from duty andsentiment. "

We returned together to Venice, where we separated, and I passed the restof the night in great distress. In the morning I wrote to the fairafflicted, and whilst endeavouring to console her to the best of myability, I tried to impress on her the necessity for prudence and theavoidance of such escapades as might eventually ruin us. 

Next day I received her reply, every word of which spelt despair. Naturehad given her a disposition which had become so intensified by indulgencethat the cloister was unbearable to her, and I foresaw the hard fights Ishould have to undergo. 

We saw each other the Thursday after Easter, and I told her that I shouldnot come to the casino before midnight. She had had four hours to passwith her lover in tears and regrets, amongst which she had often cursedher cruel fate and the foolish resolution which made her take the veil. We supped together, and although the meal was a rich and delicate one wedid it little honour. When we had finished, the ambassador left, entreating me to remain, which I did, without thinking at all of thepleasures of a party of two, for Love lighteth not his torch at thehearts of two lovers who are full of grief and sorrow. M---- M---- hadgrown thin, and her condition excited my pity and shut out all otherfeelings. I held her a long time in my arms, covering her with tender andaffectionate kisses, but I shewed no intention of consoling her byamusements in which her spirit could not have taken part. She said, before we parted, that I had shewn myself a true lover, and she asked meto consider myself from henceforth as her only friend and protector. 

Next week, when we were together as usual, M. De Bemis called thehousekeeper just before supper, and in his presence executed a deed in mybehalf, which he made him sign. In this document he transferred to me allrights over the contents of the casino, and charged him to consider me inall things as his master. 

We arranged to sup together two days after, to make our farewells, but onmy arrival I found by herself, standing up, and pale as death, or ratheras white as a statue of Carrara marble. 

"He is gone, " she said, "and he leaves me to your care. Fatal being, whomperchance I shall see no more, whom I thought I loved but as a friend, now you are lost to me I see my mistake. Before I knew him I was nothappy, but neither was I unhappy as I now am. "

I passed the whole night beside her, striving by the most delicateattentions to soften her grief, but with out success. Her character, asabandoned to sorrow as to pleasure, was displayed to me during that longand weary night. She told me at what hour I should come to the conventparlour, the next day, and on my arrival I was delighted to find her notquite so sad. She shewed me a letter which her lover had written to herfrom Trevisa, and she then told me that I must come and see her twice aweek, warning me that she would be accompanied sometimes by one nun andsometimes by another, for she foresaw that my visits would become thetalk of the convent, when it became known that I was the individual whoused to go to mass at their church. She therefore told me to give inanother name, to prevent C---- C----'s aunt from becoming suspicious. 

"Nevertheless, " she added, "this will not prevent my coming alone when Ihave any matter of importance to communicate to you. Promise me, sweetheart, to sup and sleep at the casino at least once a week, andwrite me a note each time by the housekeeper's wife. "

I made no difficulty in promising her that much. 

We thus passed a fortnight quietly enough, as she was happy again, andher amorous inclinations had returned in full force. About this time shegave me a piece of news which delighted me--namely, that C---- C---- had nolonger anything to fear. 

Full of amorous wishes and having to be content with the teasing pleasureof seeing one another through a wretched grating, we racked our brains tofind out some way to be alone together to do what we liked, without anyrisk. 

"I am assured, " she said, "of the good faith of the gardener's sister. Ican go out and come in without fear of being seen, for the little doorleading to the convent is not overlooked by any window--indeed it isthought to be walled up. Nobody can see me crossing the garden to thelittle stream, which is considered unnavigable. All we want is aone-oared gondola, and I cannot believe that with the help of money youwill be unable to find a boatman on whom we may rely. "

I understood from these expressions that she suspected me of becomingcold towards her, and this suspicion pierced me to the heart. 

"Listen, " said I, "I will be the boatman myself. I will come to the quay, pass by the little door, and you shall lead me to your room where I willpass the whole night with you, and the day, too, if you think you canhide me. "

"That plan, " said she, "makes me shudder. I tremble at the danger towhich you might be exposed. No, I should be too unfortunate if I were tobe the cause of your misfortune, but, as you can row, come in the boat, let me know the time as closely as possible; the trusty woman will be onthe watch, and I will not keep you four minutes waiting. I will get intothe boat, we will go to our beloved casino, and then we shall be happywithout fearing anything. "

"I will think it over. "

The way I took to satisfy her was as follows: I bought a small boat, andwithout telling her I went one night all by myself round the island toinspect the walls of the convent on the side of the lagune. With somedifficulty I made out a little door, which I judged to be the only one bywhich she could pass, but to go from there to the casino was no smallmatter, since one was obliged to fetch a wide course, and with one oar Icould not do the passage in less than a quarter of an hour, and that withmuch toil. Nevertheless, feeling sure of success, I told my pretty nun ofthe plan, and never was news received with so much pleasure. We set ourwatches together, and fixed our meeting for the Friday following. 

On the day appointed, an hour before sunset, I betook myself to St. Francis de la Vigne, where I kept my boat, and having set it in order anddressed myself as a boatman, I got upon the poop and held a straightcourse for the little door, which opened the moment I arrived. M---- M---- came out wrapped in a cloak, and someone shutting the doorafter her she got on board my frail bark, and in a quarter of an hour wewere at the casino. M---- M---- made haste to go in, but I stayed to belaymy boat with a lock and chain against thieves, who pass the nightpleasantly by stealing whatever they can lay hands on. 

Though I had rowed easily enough, I was in a bath of perspiration, which, however, by no means hindered my charming mistress from falling on myneck; the pleasure of meeting seemed to challenge her love, and, proud ofwhat I had done, I enjoyed her transports. 

Not dreaming that I should have any occasion for a change of linen, I hadbrought none with me, but she soon found a cure for this defect; forafter having undressed me she dried me lovingly, gave me one of hersmocks, and I found myself dressed to admiration. 

We had been too long deprived of our amorous pleasures to think of takingsupper before we had offered a plenteous sacrifice to love. We spent twohours in the sweetest of intoxications, our bliss seeming more acute thanat our first meeting. In spite of the fire which consumed me, in spite ofthe ardour of my mistress, I was sufficiently master of myself todisappoint her at the critical moment, for the picture which our friendhad drawn was always before my eyes. M---- M----, joyous and wanton, having me for the first time in the character of boatman, augmented ourdelights by her amorous caprices, but it was useless for her to try toadd fuel to my flame, since I loved her better than myself. 

The night was short, for she was obliged to return at three in themorning, and it struck one as we sat down to table. As the climax of illluck a storm came on whilst we were at supper. Our hair stood on end; ouronly hope was founded in the nature of these squalls, which seldom lastmore than an hour. We were in hopes, also, that it would not leave behindit too strong a wind, as is sometimes the case, for though I was strongand sturdy I was far from having the skill or experience of aprofessional boatman. 

In less than half an hour the storm became violent, one flash oflightning followed another, the thunder roared, and the wind grew to agale. Yet after a heavy rain, in less than an hour, the sky cleared, butthere was no moon, it being the day after the Ascension. Two o'clockstuck. I put my head out at the window, but perceive that a contrary galeis blowing. 

 'Ma tiranno del mar Libecchio resta. '

This Libecchio which Ariosto calls--and with good reason--the tyrant ofthe sea, is the southwesterly wind, which is commonly called 'Garbin' atVenice. I said nothing, but I was frightened. I told my sweetheart thatwe must needs sacrifice an hour of pleasure, since prudence would have itso. 

"Let us set out forthwith, for if the gale gets stronger I shall not beable to double the island. "

She saw my advice was not to be questioned, and taking the key of herstrong box, whence she desired to get some money, she was delighted tofind her store increased fourfold. She thanked me for having told hernothing about it, assuring me she would have of me nothing but my heart, and following me she got into my boat and lay down at full length so asnot to hinder its motion, I got upon the poop, as full of fear ascourage, and in five minutes I had the good luck to double the point. Butthere it was that the tyrant was waiting for me, and it was not longbefore I felt that my strength would not outlast that of the winds. Irowed with all my strength, but all I could do was to prevent my boatfrom going back. For half an hour I was in this pitiful state, and I feltmy strength failing without daring to say a word. I was out of breath, but could not rest a moment, since the least relaxation would have letthe boat slip a far way back, and this would have been a distance hard torecover. M---- M---- lay still and silent, for she perceived I had nobreath wherewith to answer her. I began to give ourselves up as lost. 

At that instant I saw in the distance a barque coming swiftly towards us. What a piece of luck! I waited till she caught us up, for if I had notdone so I should not have been able to make myself heard, but as soon asI saw her at my left hand, twelve feet off, I shouted, "Help! I will givetwo sequins!"

They lowered sail and came towards me, and on their hailing me I askedfor a man to take us to the opposite point of the island. They asked asequin in advance, I gave it them, and promised the other to the man whowould get on my poop and help me to make the point. In less than tenminutes we were opposite to the little stream leading to the convent, butthe secret of it was too dear to be hazarded, so as soon as we reachedthe point I paid my preserver and sent him back. Henceforth the wind wasin our favour, and we soon got to the little door, whereM---- M---- landed, saying to me, "Go and sleep in the casino. " I thoughther advice wise, and I followed it, and having the wind behind me I gotto the casino without trouble, and slept till broad day. As soon as I hadrisen I wrote to my dear mistress that I was well, and that we should seeeach other at the grating. Having taken my boat back to St. Francis, Iput on my mask and went to Liston. 

In the morning M---- M---- came to the grating by herself, and we made allsuch observations as our adventures of the night would be likely tosuggest, but in place of deciding to follow the advice which prudenceshould have given us-namely, not to expose ourselves to danger for thefuture, we thought ourselves extremely prudent in resolving that if wewere again threatened by a storm we would set out as soon as we saw itrising. All the same we had to confess that if chance had not thrown thebarque in our way we should have been obliged to return to the casino, for M---- M---- could not have got to the convent, and how could she everhave entered its walls again? I should have been forced to leave Venicewith her, and that for ever. My life would have been finally andirretrievably linked with hers, and, without doubt, the variousadventures which at the age of seventy-two years impel me to write theseMemoirs, would never have taken place. 

For the next three months we continued to meet each other once a week, always amorous, and never disturbed by the slightest accidents. 

M---- M---- could not resist giving the ambassador a full account of ouradventures, and I had promised to write to him, and always to write thewhole truth. He replied by congratulating us on our good fortune, but heprophesied inevitable disaster if we had not the prudence to stop ourintercourse. 

Mr. Murray, the English ambassador, a witty and handsome man, and a greatamateur of the fair sex, wine, and good cheer, then kept the fairAncilla, who introduced me to him. This fine fellow became my friend inmuch the same way as M. De Bernis, the only difference being that theFrenchman liked to look on while the Englishman preferred to give theshow. I was never unwelcome at their amorous battles, and the voluptuousAncilla was delighted to have me for a witness. I never gave them thepleasure of mingling in the strife. I loved M---- M----, but I should avowthat my fidelity to her was not entirely dependent on my love. ThoughAncilla was handsome she inspired me with repugnance, for she was alwayshoarse, and complained of a sharp pain in the throat, and though herlover kept well, I was afraid of her, and not without cause, for thedisease which ended the days of Francis I. Of France brought her to thegrave in the following autumn. A quarter of an hour before she died, herbrave Briton, yielding to the lascivious requests of this new Messalina, offered in my presence the last sacrifice, in spite of a large sore onher face which made her look hideous. 

This truly heroic action was known all over the town, and it was Murrayhimself who made it known, citing me as his witness. 

This famous courtezan, whose beauty was justly celebrated, feelingherself eaten away by an internal disease, promised to give a hundredlouis to a doctor named Lucchesi, who by dint of mercury undertook tocure her, but Ancilla specified on the agreement that she was not to paythe aforesaid sum till Lucchesi had offered with her an amoroussacrifice. 

The doctor having done his business as well as he could wished to be paidwithout submitting to the conditions of the treaty, but Ancilla held herground, and the matter was brought before a magistrate. 

In England, where all agreements are binding, Ancilla would have won hercase, but at Venice she lost it. 

The judge, in giving sentence, said a condition, criminal per se, notfulfilled, did not invalidate an agreement--a sentence abounding inwisdom, especially in this instance. 

Two months before this woman had become disgusting, my friend M. Memmo, afterwards procurator, asked me to take him to her house. In the heightof the conversation, what should come but a gondola, and we saw CountRosemberg, the ambassador from Vienna, getting out of it. M. Memmo wasthunderstruck (for a Venetian noble conversing with a foreign ambassadorbecomes guilty of treason to the state), and ran in hot haste fromAncilla's room, I after him, but on the stair he met the ambassador, who, seeing his distress, burst into a laugh, and passed on. I got directlyinto M. Memmo's gondola, and we went forthwith to M. Cavalli, secretaryto the State Inquisitors. M. Memmo could have taken no better course toavoid the troublesome consequences which this fatal meeting might havehad, and he was very glad that I was with him to testify to his innocenceand to the harmlessness of the occurrence. 

M. Cavalli received M. Memmo with a smile, and told him he did well tocome to confession without wasting any time. M. Memmo, much astonished atthis reception, told him the brief history of the meeting, and thesecretary replied with a grave air that he had no doubt as to the truthof his story, as the circumstances were in perfect correspondence withwhat he knew of the matter. 

We came away extremely puzzled at the secretary's reply, and discussedthe subject for some time, but then we came to the conclusion that M. Cavalli could have had no positive knowledge of the matter before wecame, and that he only spoke as he did from the instinct of anInquisitor, who likes it to be understood that nothing is hid from himfor a moment. 

After the death of Ancilla, Mr. Murray remained without a titularmistress, but, fluttering about like a butterfly, he had, one afteranother, the prettiest girls in Venice. This good-natured Epicurean setout for Constantinople two years later, and was for twenty years theambassador of the Court of St. James at the Sublime Porte. He returned toVenice in 1778 with the intention of ending his days there, far fromaffairs of state, but he died in the lazaretto eight days before thecompletion of his quarantine. 

At play fortune continued to favour me; my commerce with M---- M---- couldnot be discovered now that I was my own waterman; and the nuns who werein the secret were too deeply involved not to keep it. I led them a merrylife, but I foresaw that as soon as M. De Bernis decided to letM---- M---- know that he would not return to Venice, he would recall hispeople, and we should then have the casino no longer. I knew, besides, that when the rough season came on it would be impossible for me bymyself to continue our voyages. 

The first Monday in October, when the theatres are opened and masks maybe worn, I went to St. Francis to get my boat, and thence to Muran for mymistress, afterwards making for the casino. The nights were now longenough for us to have ample time for enjoyment, so we began by making anexcellent supper, and then devoted ourselves to the worship of Love andSleep. Suddenly, in the midst of a moment of ecstasy, I heard a noise inthe direction of the canal, which aroused my suspicions, and I rushed tothe window. What was my astonishment and anger to see a large boat takingmine in tow! Nevertheless, without giving way to my passion, I shouted tothe robbers that I would give them ten sequins if they would be kindenough to return me my boat. 

A shout of laughter was all the reply they made, and not believing what Isaid they continued their course. What was I to do? I dared not cry, "Stop thief!" and not being endued with the power of walking on the waterdry-footed, I could not give chase to the robbers. I was in the utmostdistress, and for the moment M---- M---- shewed signs of terror, for shedid not see how I could remedy this disaster. 

I dressed myself hastily, giving no more thoughts to love, my onlycomfort being that I had still two hours to get the indispensable boat, should it cost me a hundred sequins. I should have been in no perplexityif I had been able to take one, but the gondoliers would infallibly makeproclamation over the whole of Muran that they had taken a nun to such aconvent, and all would have been lost. 

The only way, then, that was open to me was either to buy a boat or tosteal one. I put my pistols and dagger in my pocket, took some money, andwith an oar on my shoulder set out. 

The robbers had filed the chain of my boat with a silent file; this Icould not do, and I could only reckon on having the good luck to find aboat moored with cords. 

Coming to the large bridge I saw boats and to spare, but there werepeople on the quay, and I would not risk taking one. Seeing a tavern openat the end of the quay I ran like a madman, and asked if there were anyboatmen there; the drawer told me there were two, but that they weredrunk. I came up to them, and said, "Who will take me to Venice foreighty sous?"

"I, " and "I;" and they began to quarrel as to who should go. I quietedthem by giving forty sous to the more drunken of the two, and I went outwith the other. 

As soon as we were on our way, I said, "You are too drunk to take me, lend me your boat, and I will give it youback to-morrow. "

"I don't know you. "

"I will deposit ten sequins, but your boat is not worth that. Who will beyour surety?"

He took me back to the tavern, and the drawer went bail for him. Wellpleased, I took my man to the boat, and having furnished it with a secondoar and two poles he went away, chuckling at having made a good bargain, while I was as glad to have had the worst of it. I had been an hour away, and on entering the casino found my dear M---- M---- in an agony, but assoon as she saw my beaming face all the laughter came back on hers. Itook her to the convent, and then went to St. Francis, where the keeperof the boathouse looked as if he thought me a fool, when I told him thatI had trucked away my boat for the one I had with me. I put on my mask, and went forthwith to my lodging and to bed, for these annoyances hadbeen too much for me. 

About this time my destiny made me acquainted with a nobleman called MarkAntony Zorzi, a man of parts and famous for his skill in writing versesin the Venetian dialect. Zorzi, who was very fond of the play, anddesired to offer a sacrifice to Thalia, wrote a comedy which the audiencetook the liberty of hissing; but having persuaded himself that his pieceonly failed through the conspiracies of the Abbe Chiari, who wrote forthe Theatre of St. Angelo, he declared open war against all the abbe'splays. 

I felt no reluctance whatever to visit M. Zorzi, for he possessed anexcellent cook and a charming wife. He knew that I did not care forChiari as an author, and M. Zorzi had in his pay people who, withoutpity, rhyme, or reason, hissed all the compositions of the ecclesiasticalplaywright. My part was to criticise them in hammer verses--a kind ofdoggerel then much in fashion, and Zorzi took care to distribute mylucubrations far and wide. These manoeuvres made me a powerful enemy inthe person of M. Condulmer, who liked me none the better for having allthe appearance of being in high favour with Madame Zorzi, to whom beforemy appearance he had paid diligent court. This M. Condulmer was to beexcused for not caring for me, for, having a large share in the St. Angelo Theatre, the failure of the abbe's pieces was a loss to him, asthe boxes had to be let at a very low rent, and all men are governed byinterested motives. 

This M. Condulmer was sixty years old, but with all the greenness ofyouth he was still fond of women, gaming, and money, and he was, in fact, a money-lender, but he knew how to pass for a saint, as he took care togo to mass every morning at St. Mark's, and never omitted to shed tearsbefore the crucifix. The following year he was made a councillor, and inthat capacity he was for eight months a State Inquisitor. Having thusattained this diabolically-eminent, or eminently-diabolical, position, hehad not much difficulty in shewing his colleagues the necessity ofputting me under The Leads as a disturber of the peace of the Republic. In the beginning of the winter the astounding news of the treaty betweenFrance and Austria was divulged--a treaty by which the political balancewas entirely readjusted, and which was received with incredulity by thePowers. The whole of Italy had reason to rejoice, for the treaty guardedthat fair land from becoming the theatre of war on the slightestdifference which might arise between the two Powers. What astonished themost acute was that this wonderful treaty was conceived and carried outby a young ambassador who had hitherto been famed only as a wit. Thefirst foundations had been laid in 1750 by Madame de Pompadour, CountCanes (who was created a prince), and M. L'Abbe de Bernis, who was notknown till the following year, when the king made him ambassador toVenice. The House of Bourbon and the House of Hapsburg had been foes fortwo hundred and forty years when this famous treaty was concluded, but itonly lasted for forty years, and it is not likely that any treaty willlast longer between two courts so essentially opposed to one another. 

The Abbe de Bernis was created minister for foreign affairs some timeafter the ratification of the treaty; three years after he re-establishedthe parliament, became a cardinal, was disgraced, and finally sent toRome, where he died. 'Mors ultimo linea rerum est'. 

Affairs fell out as I had foreseen, for nine months after he left Venicehe conveyed to M---- M---- the news of his recall, though he did it in themost delicate manner. Nevertheless, M---- M---- felt the blow so severelythat she would very possibly have succumbed, had I not been preparing herfor it in every way I could think of M. De Bernis sent me allinstructions. 

He directed that all the contents of the casino should be sold and theproceeds given to M---- M----, with the exception of the books and printswhich the housekeeper was ordered to bring to Paris. It was a nicebreviary for a cardinal, but would to God they had nothing worse!

Whilst M---- M---- abandoned herself to grief I carried out the orders ofM. De Bernis, and by the middle of January we had no longer a casino. Shekept by her two thousand sequins and her pearls, intending to sell themlater on to buy herself an annuity. 

We were now only able to see each other at the grating; and soon, wornwith grief, she fell dangerously ill, and on the 2nd of February Irecognized in her features the symptoms of approaching death. She sent meher jewel-case, with all her diamonds and nearly all her money, all thescandalous books she possessed, and all her letters, telling me that ifshe did not die I was to return her the whole, but that all belonged tome if, as she thought, she should succumb to the disease. She also toldme that C---- C---- was aware of her state, and asked me to take pity onher and write to her, as my letters were her only comfort, and that shehoped to have strength to read them till her latest breath. 

I burst into tears, for I loved her passionately, and I promised her tocome and live in Muran until she recovered her health. 

Having placed the property in a gondola, I went to the Bragadin Palace todeposit it, and then returned to Muran to get Laura to find me afurnished room where I could live as I liked. "I know of a good room, with meals provided, " she said; "you will be quite comfortable and willget it cheaply, and if you like to pay in advance, you need not even saywho you are. The old man to whom the house belongs lives on the groundfloor; he will give you all the keys and if you like you need see noone. "

She gave me the address, and I went there on the spot, and having foundeverything to my liking I paid a month in advance and the thing was done. It was a little house at the end of a blind alley abutting on the canal. I returned to Laura's house to tell her that I wanted a servant to get myfood and to make my bed, and she promised to get me one by the next day. 

Having set all in order for my new lodging, I returned to Venice andpacked my mails as if I were about to make a long journey. After supper Itook leave of M. De Bragadin and of his two friends, telling them that Iwas going to be away for several weeks on important business. 

Next day, going to my new room, I was surprised to find there Tonine, Laura's daughter, a pretty girl not more than fifteen years old, who toldme with a blush, but with more spirit than I gave her credit for, thatshe would serve me as well as her mother would have done. 

I was in too much distress to thank Laura for this pretty present, and Ieven determined that her daughter should not stay in my service. We knowhow much such resolutions are commonly worth. In the meanwhile I was kindto the girl: "I am sure, " I said, "of your goodwill, but I must talk toyour mother. I must be alone, " I added, "as I have to write all day, andI shall not take anything till the evening. " She then gave me a letter, begging pardon for not having given it me sooner. "You must never forgetto deliver messages, " I said, "for if you had waited any longer beforebringing me this letter, it might have had the most seriousconsequences. " She blushed, begged pardon, and went out of the room. Theletter was from C---- C----, who told me that her friend was in bed, andthat the doctor had pronounced her illness to be fever. I passed the restof the day in putting my room in order, and in writing to C---- C---- andher suffering friend. 

Towards evening Tonine brought in the candles, and told me that my supperwas ready. "Follow me, " I said. Seeing that she had only laid supper forone--a pleasing proof of her modesty, I told her to get another knife andfork, as I wished her always to take her meals with me. I can give noaccount of my motives. I only wished to be kind to her, and I dideverything in good faith. By and by, reader, we shall see whether this isnot one of the devices by which the devil compasses his ends. 

Not having any appetite, I ate little, but I thought everything good withthe exception of the wine; but Tonine promised to get some better by thenext day, and when supper was over she went to sleep in the ante-room. 

After sealing my letters, wishing to know whether the outer door waslocked, I went out and saw Tonine in bed, sleeping peacefully, orpretending to do so. I might have suspected her thoughts, but I had neverbeen in a similar situation, and I measured the extremity of my grief bythe indifference with which I looked at this girl; she was pretty, butfor all that I felt that neither she nor I ran any risk. 

Next day, waking very early, I called her, and she came in neatlydressed. I gave her my letter to C---- C----, which enclosed the letter toM---- M----, telling her to take it to her mother and then to return tomake my coffee. 

"I shall dine at noon, Tonine, " I said, "take care to get what isnecessary in good time. "

"Sir, I prepared yesterday's supper myself, and if you like I can cookall your meals. "

"I am satisfied with your abilities, go on, and here is a sequin forexpenses. "

"I still have a hundred and twenty sous remaining from the one you gaveme yesterday, and that will be enough. "

"No, they are for yourself, and I shall give you as much every day. "

Her delight was so great that I could not prevent her covering my handwith kisses. I took care to draw it back and not to kiss her in return, for I felt as if I should be obliged to laugh, and this would havedishonoured my grief. 

The second day passed like the first. Tonine was glad that I said no moreabout speaking to her mother, and drew the conclusion that her serviceswere agreeable to me. Feeling tired and weak, and fearing that I shouldnot wake early enough to send the letter to the convent, but not wishingto rouse Tonine if she were asleep, I called her softly. She roseimmediately and came into my room with nothing on but a slight petticoat. Pretending to see nothing, I gave her my letter, and told her to take itto her mother in the morning before she came into my room. She went out, saying that my instructions should be carried out, but as soon as she wasgone I could not resist saying to myself that she was very pretty; and Ifelt both sad and ashamed at the reflection that this girl could veryeasily console me. I hugged my grief, and I determined to separate myselffrom a being who made me forget it. 

"In the morning, " I said, "I will tell Laura to get me something lessseducing;" but the night brought counsel, and in the morning I put on thearmour of sophism, telling myself that my weakness was no fault of thegirl's, and that it would therefore be unjust to punish her for it. Weshall see, dear reader, how all this ended. 

CHAPTER XXIII

Continues the Preceding Chapter--M. M. Recovers--I Return toVenice--Tonine Consoles Me--Decrease of My Love For M. M. --DoctorRighelini--Curious Conversation With Him--How This Conversation AffectedM. M. --Mr. Murray Undeceived and Avenged

Tontine had what is called tact and common sense, and thinking thesequalities were required in our economy she behaved with great delicacy, not going to bed before receiving my letters, and never coming into myroom except in a proper dress, and all this pleased me. For a fortnightM---- M---- was so ill that I expected every moment to hear the news of herdeath. On Shrove Tuesday C---- C---- wrote that her friend was not strongenough to read my letter, and that she was going to receive 'extremeunction'. This news so shocked me that I could not rise, and passed thewhole day in weeping and writing, Tonine not leaving me till midnight. Icould not sleep. On Ash Wednesday I got a letter, in which C---- C---- toldme that the doctor had no hopes for her friend, and that he only gave hera fortnight to live. A low fever was wasting her away, her weakness wasextreme, and she could scarcely swallow a little broth. She had also themisfortune to be harassed by her confessor, who made her foretaste allthe terrors of death. I could only solace my grief by writing, and Toninenow and again made bold to observe that I was cherishing my grief, andthat it would be the death of me. I knew myself that I was making myanguish more poignant, and that keeping to my bed, continued writing, andno food, would finally drive me mad. I had told my grief to poor Tonine, whose chief duty was to wipe away my tears. She had compassion on me. 

A few days later, after assuring C---- C---- that if our friend died Ishould not survive her, I asked her to tell M---- M---- that if she wantedme to take care of my life she must promise to let me carry her off onher recovery. 

"I have, " I said, "four thousand sequins and her diamonds, which areworth six thousand; we should, therefore, have a sufficient sum to enableus to live honourably in any part of Europe. "

C---- C---- wrote to me on the following day, and said that my mistress, after hearing my letter read, had fallen into a kind of convulsion, and, becoming delirious, she talked incessantly in French for three wholehours in a fashion which would have made all the nuns take to theirheels, if they had understood her. I was in despair, and was nearlyraving as wildly as my poor nun. Her delirium lasted three days, and assoon as she got back her reason she charged her young friend to tell methat she was sure to get well if I promised to keep to my word, and tocarry her off as soon as her health would allow. I hastened to reply thatif I lived she might be sure my promise would be fulfilled. 

Thus continuing to deceive each other in all good faith, we got better, for every letter from C---- C----, telling me how the convalescence of herfriend was progressing, was to me as balm. And as my mind grew morecomposed my appetite also grew better, and my health improving day byday, I soon, though quite unconsciously, began to take pleasure in thesimple ways of Tonine, who now never left me at night before she saw thatI was asleep. 

Towards the end of March M---- M---- wrote to me herself, saying that shebelieved herself out of danger, and that by taking care she hoped to beable to leave her room after Easter. I replied that I should not leaveMuran till I had the pleasure of seeing her at the grating, where, without hurrying ourselves, we could plan the execution of our scheme. 

It was now seven weeks since M. De Bragadin had seen me, and thinkingthat he would be getting anxious I resolved to go and see him that veryday. Telling Tonine that I should not be back till the evening, I startedfor Venice without a cloak, for having gone to Muran masked I hadforgotten to take one. I had spent forty-eight days without going out ofmy room, chiefly in tears and distress, and without taking any food. Ihad just gone through an experience which flattered my self-esteem. I hadbeen served by a girl who would have passed for a beauty anywhere inEurope. She was gentle, thoughtful, and delicate, and without being taxedwith foppishness I think I may say that, if she was not in love with me, she was at all events inclined to please me to the utmost of her ability;for all that I had been able to withstand her youthful charms, and I nowscarcely dreaded them. Seeing her every day, I had dispersed my amorousfancies, and friendship and gratitude seemed to have vanquished all otherfeelings, for I was obliged to confess that this charming girl hadlavished on me the most tender and assiduous care. 

She had passed whole nights on a chair by my bedside, tending me like amother, and never giving me the slightest cause for complaint. 

Never had I given her a kiss, never had I allowed myself to undress inher presence, and never (with one exception) had she come into my roomwithout being properly dressed. For all that, I knew that I had fought abattle, and I felt inclined to boast at having won the victory. There wasonly one circumstance that vexed me--namely, that I was nearly certainthat neither M. M. Nor C. C. Would consider such continence to be withinthe bounds of possibility, if they heard of it, and that Laura herself, to whom her daughter would tell the whole story, would be sceptical, though she might out of kindness pretend to believe it all. 

I got to M. De Bragadin's just as the soup was being served. He welcomedme heartily, and was delighted at having foreseen that I should thussurprise them. Besides my two other old friends, there were De la Haye, Bavois, and Dr. Righelini at table. 

"What! you without a cloak!" said M. Dandolo. 

"Yes, " said I; "for having gone out with my mask on I forgot to bringone:"

At this they laughed, and, without putting myself out, I sat down. No oneasked where I had been so long, for it was understood that that questionshould be left to me to answer or not. Nevertheless, De la Haye, who wasbursting with curiosity, could not refrain from breaking some jests onme. 

"You have got so thin, " said he, "that uncharitable people will be ratherhard on you. "

"I trust they will not say that I have been passing my time with theJesuits. "

"You are sarcastic. They may say, perhaps, that you have passed your timein a hot-house under the influence of Mercury. "

"Don't be afraid, sir, for to escape this hasty judgment I shall go backthis evening. "

"No, no, I am quite sure you will not. "

"Believe me, sir, " said I, with a bantering tone, "that I deem youropinion of too much consequence not to be governed by it. "

Seeing that I was in earnest, my friends were angry with him; and theAristarchus was in some confusion. 

Righelini, who was one of Murray's intimate friends, said to me in afriendly way that he had been longing to tell Murray of my re-appearance, and of the falsity of all the reports about me. 

"We will go to sup with him, " said I, "and I will return after supper. "

Seeing that M. De Bragadin and his two friends were uneasy about me, Ipromised to dine with them on April 25th, St. Mark's Day. 

As soon as Mr. Murray saw me, he fell on my neck and embraced me. Heintroduced me to his wife, who asked me to supper with great politeness. After Murray had told me the innumerable stories which had been madeabout my disappearance, he asked me if I knew a little story by the AbbeChiari, which had come out at the end of the carnival. As I said that Iknew nothing about it, he gave me a copy, telling me that I should likeit. He was right. It was a satire in which the Zorzi clique was pulled topieces, and in which I played a very poor part. I did not read it tillsome time after, and in the mean time put it in my pocket. After a verygood supper I took a gondola to return to Muran. 

It was midnight and very dark, so that I did not perceive the gondola tobe ill covered and in wretched order. A fine rain was falling when I gotin, and the drops getting larger I was soon wet to the skin. No greatharm was done, as I was close to my quarters. I groped my way upstairsand knocked at the door of the ante-room, where Tonine, who had notwaited for me, was sleeping. Awake in a moment she came to open the doorin her smock, and without a light. As I wanted one, I told her to get theflint and steel, which she did, warning me in a modest voice that she wasnot dressed. "That's of no consequence, " said I, "provided you arecovered. " She said no more, and soon lighted a candle, but she could nothelp laughing when she saw me dripping wet. 

"I only want you, my dear, " said I, "to dry my hair. " She quickly set towork with powder and powder-puff in hand, but her smock was short andloose at the top, and I repented, rather too late, that I had not givenher time to dress. I felt that all was lost, all the more as having touse both her hands she could not hold her smock and conceal two swellingspheres more seductive than the apples of the Hesperides. How could Ihelp seeing them? I shut my eyes and, said "For shame!" but I gave in atlast, and fixed such a hungry gaze upon poor Tonine that she blushed. "Come, " said I, "take your smock between your teeth and then I shall seeno more. " But it was worse than before, and I had only added fuel to thefire; for, as the veil was short, I could see the bases and almost thefrieze of two marble columns; and at this sight I gave a voluptuous cry. Not knowing how to conceal everything from my gaze, Tonine let herselffall on the sofa, and I, my passions at fever-heat, stood beside her, notknowing what to do. 

"Well, " she said, "shall I go and dress myself and then do your hair?"

"No, come and sit on my knee, and cover my eyes with your hands. " Shecame obediently, but the die was cast, and my resistance overcome. Iclasped her between my arms, and without any more thoughts of playing atblind man's buff I threw her on the bed and covered her with kisses. Andas I swore that I would always love her, she opened her arms to receiveme in a way that shewed how long she had been waiting for this moment. 

I plucked the rose, and then, as ever, I thought it the rarest I had evergathered since I had laboured in the harvest of the fruitful fields oflove. 

When I awoke in the morning I found myself more deeply in love withTonine than I had been with any other woman. She had got up withoutwaking me, but as soon as she heard me stirring she came, and I tenderlychid her for not waiting for me to give her good morrow. Withoutanswering she gave me M---- M----'s letter. I thanked her, but putting theletter on one side I took her in my arms, and set her by my side. "What awonder!" cried Tonine. "You are not in a hurry to read that letter!Faithless man, why did you not let me cure you six weeks ago. How lucky Iam; thanks to the rain! I do not blame you, dear, but love me as you loveher who writes to you every day, and I shall be satisfied. "

"Do you know who she is?"

"She lives in a boarding-house, and is as beautiful as an angel; but sheis there, and I am here. You are my master, and I will be your servant aslong as you like. "

I was glad to leave her in error, and swore an ever-lasting love; butduring our conversation she had let herself drop down in the bottom ofthe bed, and I entreated her to lie down again; but she said that on thecontrary it was time for me to get up for dinner, for she wanted to giveme a dainty meal cooked in the Venetian manner. 

"Who is the cook?" said I. 

"I am, and I have been using all my skill on it since five, when I gotup. "

"What time is it now, then?"

"Past one. "

The girl astonished me. She was no longer the shy Tonine of last night;she had that exultant air which happiness bestows, and the look ofpleasure which the delights of love give to a young beauty. I could notunderstand how I had escaped from doing homage to her beauty when I firstsaw her at her mother's house. But I was then too deeply in love withC---- C----; I was in too great distress; and, moreover, Tonine was thenunformed. I got up, and making her bring me a cup of coffee I asked herto keep the dinner back for a couple of hours. 

I found M---- M----'s letter affectionate, but not so interesting as itwould have been the day before. I set myself to answer it, and was almostthunderstruck to find the task, for the first time, a painful one. However, my short journey to Venice supplied me with talk which coveredfour pages. 

I had an exquisite dinner with my charming Tonine. Looking at her as atthe same time my wife, my mistress, and my housekeeper, I was delightedto find myself made happy at such a cheap rate. We spent the whole day atthe table talking of our love, and giving each other a thousand littlemarks of it; for there is no such rich and pleasant matter forconversation as when they who talk are parties to an amorous suit. Shetold with charming simplicity that she knew perfectly well that she couldnot make me amorous of her, because I loved another, and that her onlyhope was therefore in a surprise, and that she had foreseen the happymoment when I told her that she need not dress herself to light a candle. 

Tonine was naturally quick-witted, but she did not know either how toread or to write. She was enchanted to see herself become rich (for shethought herself so) without a soul at Muran being able to breathe a wordagainst her honour. I passed three weeks in the company of thisdelightful girl--weeks which I still reckon among the happiest of mylife; and what embitters my old age is that, having a heart as warm asever, I have no longer the strength necessary to secure a single day asblissful as those which I owed to this charming girl. 

Towards the end of April I saw M. M. At the grating, looking thin andmuch changed, but out of danger. I therefore returned to Venice. In myinterview, calling my attachment and tender feelings to my aid, Isucceeded in behaving myself in such wise that she could not possiblydetect the change which a new love had worked in my heart. I shall be, Itrust, easily believed when I say that I was not imprudent enough to lether suspect that I had given up the idea of escaping with her, upon whichshe counted more than ever. I was afraid lest she should fall ill again, if I took this hope away from her. I kept my casino, which cost melittle, and as I went to see M. M. Twice a week I slept there on thoseoccasions, and made love with my dashing Tonine. 

Having kept my word with my friends by dining with them on St. Mark'sDay, I went with Dr. Righelini to the parlour of the Vierges to see thetaking of the veil. 

The Convent of the Vierges is within the jurisdiction of the Doge, whomthe nuns style "Most Serene Father. " They all belong to the firstfamilies in Venice. 

While I was praising the beauty of Mother M---- E---- to Dr. Righelini, hewhispered to me that he could get her me for a money payment, if I werecurious in the matter. A hundred sequins for her and ten sequins for thego-between was the price fixed on. He assured me that Murray had had her, and could have her again. Seeing my surprise, he added that there was nota nun whom one could not have by paying for her: that Murray had thecourage to disburse five hundred sequins for a nun of Muran--a rarebeauty, who was afterwards the mistress of the French ambassador. 

Though my passion for M---- M---- was on the wane, I felt my heart grippedas by a hand of ice, and it was with the greatest difficulty that I madeno sign. Notwithstanding, I took the story for an atrocious calumny, butyet the matter was too near my heart for me to delay in bringing it tolight at the earliest opportunity. I therefore replied to Righelini inthe calmest manner possible, that one or two nuns might be had for money, but that it could happen very rarely on account of the difficulties inmost convents. 

"As for the nun of Muran, justly famous for her beauty, if she beM---- M----, nun of the convent. . . , I not only disbelieve that Murray everhad her, but I am sure she was never the French ambassador's mistress. Ifhe knew her it could only have been at the grating, where I really cannotsay what happens. "

Righelini, who was an honourable and spirited man, answered me coldlythat the English ambassador was a man of his word, and that he had thestory from his own lips. 

"If Mr. Murray, " he continued, "had not told it me under the seal ofsecrecy I would make him tell it you himself. I shall be obliged if youwill take care that he never knows I told you of it. "

"You may rely on my discretion. "

The same evening, supping at Murray's casino with Righelini, having thematter at heart, and seeing before me the two men who could clear upeverything to my satisfaction, I began to speak with enthusiasm of thebeauty of M---- E----, whom I had seen at the Vierges. 

Here the ambassador struck in, taking the ball on the hop:

"Between friends, " said he, "you can get yourself the enjoyment of thosecharms, if you are willing to sacrifice a sum of money--not too much, either, but you must have the key. "

"Do you think you have it?"

"No, I am sure; and had less trouble than you might suppose. "

"If you are sure; I congratulate you, and doubt no more. I envy yourfortune, for I don't believe a more perfect beauty could be found in allthe convents of Venice. "

"There you are wrong. Mother M---- M----, at---- in Muran, is certainlyhandsomer. "

"I have heard her talked of and I have seen her once, but I do not thinkit possible that she can be procured for money. "

"I think so, " said he, laughing, "and when I think I mostly have goodreasons. "

"You surprise me; but all the same I don't mind betting you aredeceived. "

"You would lose. As you have only seen her once, I suppose you would notrecognize her portrait?"

"I should, indeed, as her face left a strong impression on my mind. "

"Wait a minute. "

He got up from the table, went out, and returned a minute after with abox containing eight or ten miniatures, all in the same style, namely, with hair in disorder and bare necks. 

"These, " said I, "are rare charms, with which you have doubtless a nearacquaintance?"

"Yes, and if you recognize any of them be discreet. "

"You need not be afraid. Here are three I recognize, and this looks likeM---- M----; but confess that you may have been deceived--at least, thatyou did not have her in the convent or here, for there are women likeher. "

"Why do you think I have been deceived? I have had her here in herreligious habit, and I have spent a whole night with her; and it was toher individually that I sent a purse containing five hundred sequins. Igave fifty to the good procurer. "

"You have, I suppose, visited her in the parlour, after having her here?"

"No, never, as she was afraid her titular lover might hear of it. Youknow that was the French ambassador. "

"But she only saw him in the parlour. "

"She used to go to his house in secular dress whenever he wanted her. Iwas told that by the man who brought her here. "

"Have you had her several times?"

"Only once and that was enough, but I can have her whenever I like for ahundred sequins. "

"All that may be the truth, but I would wager five hundred sequins thatyou have been deceived. "

"You shall have your answer in three days. "

I was perfectly certain, I repeat, that the whole affair was a piece ofknavery; but it was necessary to have it proved, and I shuddered when thethought came into my head that after all it might be a true story. Inthis case I should have been freed from a good many obligations, but Iwas strongly persuaded of her innocence. At all events, if I were to findher guilty (which was amongst possible occurrences), I resigned myself tolose five hundred sequins as the price of this horrible discovery andaddition to my experience of life. I was full of restless anguish--theworst, perhaps, of the torments of the mind. If the honest Englishman hadbeen the victim of a mystification, or rather knavery, my regard forM---- M----'s honour compelled me to find a way to undeceive him withoutcompromising her; and such was my plan, and thus fortune favoured me. Three or four days after, Mr. Murray told the doctor that he wished tosee me. We went to him, and he greeted me thus:

"I have won; for a hundred sequins I can have the fair nun!

"Alas!" said I, "there go my five hundred sequins. "

"No, not five hundred, my dear fellow, for I should be ashamed to win somuch of you, but the hundred she would cost me. If I win, you shall payfor my pleasure, and if I lose I shall give her nothing. "

"How is the problem to be solved?" "My Mercury tells me that we must waitfor a day when masks are worn. He is endeavouring at present to find outa way to convince both of us; for otherwise neither you nor I would feelcompelled to pay the wager, and if I really have M. M. My honour wouldnot allow me to let her suspect that I had betrayed the secret. "

"No, that would be an unpardonable crime. Hear my plan, which willsatisfy us both; for after it has been carried out each of us will besure that he has fairly won or fairly lost. 

"As soon as you have possessed yourself of the real or pretended nun, leave her on some pretext, and meet me in a place to be agreed upon. Wewill then go together to the convent, and I will ask for M. M. 

"Will seeing her and speaking to her convince you that the woman you haveleft at home is a mere impostor?"

"Perfectly, and I shall pay my wager with the greatest willingness. "

"I may say the same. If, when I summon M. M. To the parlour, thelay-sister tells us she is ill or busy, we will go, and the wager will beyours; you will sup with the fair, and I will go elsewhere. "

"So be it; but since all this will be at nighttime, it is possible thatwhen you ask for her, the sister will tell you that no one can be seen atsuch an hour. "

"Then I shall lose. "

"You are quite sure, then, that if she be in the convent she will comedown?"

"That's my business. I repeat, if you don't speak to her, I shall holdmyself to have lost a hundred sequins, or a thousand if you like. "

"One can't speak plainer than that, my dear fellow, and I thank youbeforehand. "

"The only thing I ask you is to come sharp to time; and not to come toolate for a convent. "

"Will an hour after sunset suit you?"

"Admirably. "

"I shall also make it my business to compel my masked mistress to stopwhere she is, even though it be M. M. Herself. "

"Some won't have long to wait, if you will take her to a casino which Imyself possess at Muran, and where I secretly keep a girl of whom I amamorous. I will take care that she shall not be there on the appointedday, and I will give you the key of the casino. I shall also see that youfind a delicate cold supper ready. "

"That is admirable, but I must be able to point out the place to myMercury. "

"True! I will give you a supper to-morrow, the greatest secrecy to beobserved between us. We will go to my casino in a gondola, and aftersupper we will go out by the street door; thus you will know the way byland and water. You will only have to tell the procurer the name of thecanal and of the house, and on the day fixed you shall have the key. Youwill only find there an old man who lives on the ground floor, and hewill see neither those who go out nor those who come in. My sweetheartwill see nothing and will not be seen; and all, trust me, will turn outwell. "

"I begin to think that I have lost my bet, " said the Englishman, who wasdelighted with the plan; "but it matters not, I can gaily encountereither loss or gain. " We made our appointment for the next day, andseparated. 

On the following morning I went to Muran to warn Tonine that I was goingto sup with her, and to bring two of my friends; and as my English friendpaid as great court to Bacchus as to Cupid, I took care to send my littlehousekeeper several bottles of excellent wine. 

Charmed with the prospect of doing the honours of the table, Tonine onlyasked me if my friends would go away after supper. I said yes, and thisreply made her happy; she only cared for the dessert. 

After leaving her I went to the convent and passed an hour with M. M. Inthe parlour. I was glad to see that she was getting back her health andher beauty every day, and having complimented her upon it I returned toVenice. In the evening my two friends kept their appointments to theminute, and we went to my little casino at two hours after sunset. 

Our supper was delicious, and my Tonine charmed me with the gracefulnessof her carriage. I was delighted to see Righelini enchanted, and theambassador dumb with admiration. When I was in love I did not encouragemy friends to cajole my sweetheart, but I became full of complaisancewhen time had cooled the heat of my passion. 

We parted about midnight, and having taken Mr. Murray to the spot where Iwas to wait for him on the day of trial, I returned to compliment mycharming Tonine as she deserved. She praised my two friends, and couldnot express her surprise at seeing our English friend going away, freshand nimble on his feet, notwithstanding his having emptied by himself sixbottles of my best wine. Murray looked like a fine Bacchus after Rubens. 

On Whit Sunday Righelini came to tell me that the English ambassador hadmade all arrangements with the pretended procurer of M. M. For WhitTuesday. I gave him the keys of my abode at Muran, and told him to assureMurray that I would keep the appointment at the exact time arranged upon. 

My impatience brought on palpitation of the heart, which was extremelypainful, and I passed the two nights without closing an eye; for althoughI was convinced of M---- M----'s innocence, my agitation was extreme. Butwhence all this anxiety? Merely from a desire to see the ambassadorundeceived. M. M. Must in his eyes have seemed a common prostitute, andthe moment in which he would be obliged to confess himself the victim ofroguery would re-establish the honour of the nun. 

Mr. Murray was as impatient as myself, with this difference, that whereashe, looking upon the adventure as a comic one, only laughed, I who foundit too tragic shuddered with indignation. 

On Tuesday morning I went to Muran to tell Tonine to get a cold supperafter my instruction, to lay the table for two, to get wax lights ready, and having sent in several bottles of wine I bade her keep to the roomoccupied by the old landlord, and not to come out till the people whowere coming in the evening were gone. She promised to do so, and asked noquestions. After leaving her I went to the convent parlour, and asked tosee M---- M----. Not expecting to see me, she asked me why I had not goneto the pageant of the Bucentaur, which, the weather being favourable, would set out on this day. I do not know what I answered, but I know thatshe found my words little to the purpose. I came at last to the importantpoint, and told her I was going to ask a favour of her, on which my peaceof mind depended, but which she must grant blindly without asking anyquestions. 

"Tell me what I am to do, sweetheart, " said she, "and be sure I willrefuse nothing which may be in my power. "

"I shall be here this evening an hour after sunset, and ask for you atthis grating; come. I shall be with another man, to whom I beg of you tosay a few words of politeness; you can then leave us. Let us find somepretext to justify the unseasonable hour. "

"I will do what you ask, but you cannot imagine how troublesome it is ina convent, for at six o'clock the parlours are shut up and the keys aretaken to the abbess' room. However, as you only want me for five minutes, I will tell the abbess that I am expecting a letter from my brother, andthat it can be sent to me on this evening only. You must give me a letterthat the nun who will be with me may be able to say that I have not beenguilty of deception. "

"You will not come alone, then?"

"I should not dare even to ask for such a privilege. "

"Very good, but try to come with some old nun who is short-sighted. "

"I will keep the light in the background. "

"Pray do not do so, my beloved; on the contrary, place it so that you maybe distinctly seen. "

"All this is very strange, but I have promised passive obedience, and Iwill come down with two lights. May I hope that you will explain thisriddle to me at your next interview?"

"By to-morrow, at latest, you shall know the whole story. "

"My curiosity will prevent me from sleeping. "

"Not so, dear heart; sleep peacefully, and be sure of my gratitude. "

The reader will think that after this conversation my heart was perfectlyat rest; but how far was I from resting! I returned to Venice, torturedlest I should be told in the evening at the door of the cathedral, wherewe were to meet, that the nun had been obliged to put off herappointment. If that had happened, I should not have exactly suspectedM---- M----, but the ambassador would have thought that I had caused thescheme to miscarry. It is certain that in that case I should not havetaken my man to the parlour, but should have gone there sadly by myself. 

I passed the whole day in these torments, thinking it would never come toan end, and in the evening I put a letter in my pocket, and went to mypost at the hour agreed upon. 

Fortunately, Murray kept the appointment exactly. 

"Is the nun there?" said I, as soon as he was near me. 

"Yes, my dear fellow. We will go, if you like, to the parlour; but youwill find that we shall be told she is ill or engaged. If you like, thebet shall be off. "

"God forbid, my dear fellow! I cling to that hundred ducats. Let us begone. "

We presented ourselves at the wicket, and I asked for M---- M----, and thedoorkeeper made me breathe again by saying that I was expected. I enteredthe parlour with my English friend, and saw that it was lighted by fourcandles. I cannot recall these moments without being in love with life. Itake note not only of my noble mistress's innocence, but also of thequickness of her wit. Murray remained serious, without a smile on hisface. Full of grace and beauty, M---- M---- came into the room with alay-sister, each of them holding a candlestick. She paid me a complimentin good French; I gave her the letter, and looking at the address and theseal she put it in her pocket. After thanking me and saying she wouldreply in due course, she turned towards my companion:

"I shall, perhaps, make you lose the first act of the opera, " said she. 

"The pleasure of seeing you, madam, is worth all the operas in theworld. "

"You are English, I think?"

"Yes, madam. "

"The English are now the greatest people in the world, because they arefree and powerful. Gentlemen, I wish you a very good evening. "

I had never seen M---- M---- looking so beautiful as then, and I went outof the parlour ablaze with love, and glad as I had never been before. Iwalked with long strides towards my casino, without taking notice of theambassador, who did not hurry himself in following me; I waited for himat my door. 

"Well, " said I, "are you convinced now that you have been cheated?"

"Be quiet, we have time enough to talk about that. Let us go upstairs. "

"Shall I come?"

"Do. What do you think I could do by myself for four hours with thatcreature who is waiting for me? We will amuse ourselves with her. "

"Had we not better turn her out?"

"No; her master is coming for her at two o'clock in the morning. Shewould go and warn him, and he would escape my vengeance. We will throwthem both out of the window. "

"Be moderate, for M---- M---- s honour depends on the secrecy we observe. Let us go upstairs. We shall have some fun. I should like to see thehussy. "

Murray was the first to enter the room. As soon as the girl saw me, shethrew her handkerchief over her face, and told the ambassador that suchbehaviour was unworthy of him. He made no answer. She was not so tall asM---- M----, and she spoke bad French. 

Her cloak and mask were on the bed, but she was dressed as a nun. As Iwanted to see her face, I politely asked her to do me the favour ofshewing it. 

"I don't know you, " said she; "who are you?"

"You are in my house, and don't know who I am?"

"I am in your house because I have been betrayed. I did not think that Ishould have to do with a scoundrel. "

At this word Murray commanded her to be silent, calling her by the nameof her honourable business; and the slut got up to take her cloak, sayingshe would go. Murray pushed her back, and told her that she would have towait for her worthy friend, warning her to make no noise if she wanted tokeep out of prison. 

"Put me in prison!"

With this she directed her hand towards her dress, but I rushed forwardand seized one hand while Murray mastered the other. We pushed her backon a chair while we possessed ourselves of the pistols she carried in herpockets. 

Murray tore away the front of her holy habit, and I extracted a stilettoeight inches long, the false nun weeping bitterly all the time. 

"Will you hold your tongue, and keep quiet till Capsucefalo comes, " saidthe ambassador, "or go to prison?"

"If I keep quiet what will become of me?"

"I promise to let you go. "

"With him?"

"Perhaps. "

"Very well, then, I will keep quiet. "

"Have you got any more weapons?"

Hereupon the slut took off her habit and her petticoat, and if we hadallowed her she would have soon been in a state of nature, no doubt inthe expectation of our passions granting what our reason refused. I wasmuch astonished to find in her only a false resemblance to M. M. Iremarked as much to the ambassador, who agreed with me, but made meconfess that most men, prepossessed with the idea that they were going tosee M. M. , would have fallen into the same trap. In fact, the longing topossess one's self of a nun who has renounced all the pleasures of theworld, and especially that of cohabitation with the other sex, is thevery apple of Eve, and is more delightful from the very difficulty ofpenetrating the convent grating. 

Few of my readers will fail to testify that the sweetest pleasures arethose which are hardest to be won, and that the prize, to obtain whichone would risk one's life, would often pass unnoticed if it were freelyoffered without difficulty or hazard. 

In the following chapter, dear reader, you will see the end of thisfarcical adventure. In the mean time, let us take a little breath. 

CHAPTER XXIV

Pleasant Ending of the Adventure of the False Nun--M. M. Finds Out That IHave a Mistress--She is Avenged on the Wretch Capsucefalo--I Ruin Myselfat Play, and at the Suggestion of M. M. I Sell all Her Diamonds, OneAfter Another--I Hand Over Tonine to Murray, Who Makes Provision forHer--Her Sister Barberine Takes Her Place. 

"How did you make this nice acquaintance?" I asked the ambassador. 

"Six months ago, " he replied, "while standing at the convent gate withMr. Smith, our consul, in whose company I had been to see some ceremonyor other, I remarked to him, as we were talking over some nuns we hadnoticed, 'I would gladly give five hundred sequins for a few hours ofSister M---- M---- s company. ' Count Capsucefalo heard what I said, butmade no remark. Mr. Smith answered that one could only see her at thegrating as did the ambassador of France, who often came to visit her. Capsucefalo called on me the next morning, and said that if I had spokenin good faith he was sure he could get me a night with the nun inwhatever place I liked, if she could count on my secrecy. 'I have justbeen speaking to her, ' said he, 'and on my mentioning your name she saidshe had noticed you with Mr. Smith, and vowed she would sup with you morefor love than money. 'I, ' said the rascal, 'am the only man she trusts, and I take her to the French ambassador's casino in Venice whenever shewants to go there. You need not be afraid of being cheated, as you willgive the money to her personally when you have possessed yourself ofher. ' With this he took her portrait from his pocket and shewed it me;and here it is. I bought it of him two days after I believed myself tohave spent a night with the charming nun, and a fortnight after ourconversation. This beauty here came masked in a nun's habit, and I wasfool enough to think I had got a treasure. I am vexed with myself for nothaving suspected the cheat--at all events, when I saw her hair, as I knowthat nuns' hair should be cut short. But when I said something about itto the hussy, she told me they were allowed to keep their hair undertheir caps, and I was weak enough to believe her. "

I knew that on this particular Murray had not been deceived, but I didnot feel compelled to tell him so then and there. 

I held the portrait Murray had given me in my hand, and compared it withthe face before me. In the portrait the breast was bare, and as I wasremarking that painters did those parts as best they could, the impudentwench seized the opportunity to shew me that the miniature was faithfulto nature. I turned my back upon her with an expression of contempt whichwould have mortified her, if these creatures were ever capable of shame. As we talked things over, I could not help laughing at the axiom, Thingswhich are equal to the same thing are equal to one another, for theminiature was like M. M. And like the courtezan, and yet the two womenwere not like each other. Murray agreed with me, and we spent an hour ina philosophical discussion on the matter. As the false M. M. Was namedInnocente, we expressed a wish to know how her name agreed with herprofession, and how the knave had induced her to play the part she hadtaken; and she told us the following story:

"I have known Count Capsucefalo for two years, and have found him useful, for, though he has given me no money, he has made me profit largelythrough the people he has introduced to me. About the end of last autumnhe came to me one day, and said that if I could make up as a nun withsome clothes he would get me, and in that character pass a night with anEnglishman, I should be the better by five hundred sequins. 'You need notbe afraid of anything, ' said he, 'as I myself will take you to the casinowhere the dupe will be awaiting you, and I will come and take you back toyour imaginary convent towards the end of the night. He shewed me how Imust behave, and told me what to reply if my lover asked any questionsabout the discipline of the convent. 

"I liked the plot, gentlemen, and I told him I was ready to carry it out. And be pleased to consider that there are not many women of my professionwho would hesitate over a chance of getting five hundred sequins. Findingthe scheme both agreeable and profitable, I promised to play my part withthe greatest skill. The bargain was struck, and he gave me fullinstructions as to my dialogue. He told me that the Englishman could onlytalk about my convent and any lovers I might have had; that on the latterpoint I was to cut him short, and to answer with a laugh that I did notknow what he was talking about, and even to tell him that I was a nun inappearance only, and that in the course of toying I might let him see myhair. 'That, ' said Capsucefalo, 'won't prevent him from thinking you anun--yes! and the very nun he is amorous of, for he will have made up hismind that you cannot possibly be anyone else. ' Seizing the point of thejest, I did not take the trouble to find out the name of the nun I was torepresent, nor the convent whence I was to come; the only thing in myhead was the five hundred sequins. So little have I troubled about aughtelse that, though I passed a delicious night with you, and found yourather worthy of being paid for than paying, I have not ascertained whoand what you are, and I don't know at this moment to whom I am speaking. You know what a night I had; I have told you it was delicious, and I washappy in the idea that I was going to have another. You have foundeverything out. I am sorry, but I am not afraid of anything, since I canput on any disguise I like, and can't prevent my lovers taking me for asaint if they like to do so. You have found weapons in my possession, buteveryone is allowed to bear arms in self-defence. I plead not guilty onall counts. "

"Do you know me?" said I. 

"No, but I have often seen you passing under my window. I live at St. Roch, near the bridge. "

The way in which the woman told her yarn convinced us that she was anadept in the science of prostitution, but we thought Capsucefalo, inspite of the count, worthy of the pillory. The girl was about ten yearsolder than M. M. , she was pretty, but light-complexioned, while mybeautiful nun had fine dark brown hair and was at least three inchestaller. 

After twelve o'clock we sat down to supper, and did honour to theexcellent meal which my dear Antoinette had prepared for us. We werecruel enough to leave the poor wretch without offering her so much as aglass of wine, but we thought it our duty. 

While we were talking, the jolly Englishman made some witty comments onmy eagerness to convince him that he had not enjoyed M. M. 's favours. 

"I can't believe, " said he, "that you have shewn so much interest withoutbeing in love with the divine nun. "

I answered by saying that if I were her lover I was much to be pitied inbeing condemned to go to the parlour, and no farther. 

"I would gladly give a hundred guineas a month, " said he, "to have theprivilege of visiting her at the grating. "

So saying he gave me my hundred sequins, complimenting me on my success, and I slipped them forthwith into my pocket. 

At two o'clock in the morning we heard a soft knock on the street door. 

"Here is our friend, " I said, "be discreet, and you will see that he willmake a full confession. "

He came in and saw Murray and the lady, but did not discover that a thirdparty was present till he heard the ante-room door being locked. Heturned round and saw me, and as he knew me, merely said, without losingcountenance:

"Ah, you are here; you know, of course, that the secret must be kept?"

Murray laughed and calmly asked him to be seated, and he enquired, withthe lady's pistols in his hands, where he was going to take her beforeday-break. 

"Home. "

"I think you may be mistaken, as it is very possible that when you leavethis place you will both of you be provided with a bed in prison. "

"No, I am not afraid of that happening; the thing would make too muchnoise, and the laugh would not be on your side. Come, " said he to hismate, "put on your cloak and let us be off. "

The ambassador, who like an Englishman kept quite cool the whole time, poured him out a glass of Chambertin, and the blackguard drank hishealth. Murray seeing he had on a fine ring set with brilliants, praisedit, and shewing some curiosity to see it more closely he drew it off thefellow's finger, examined it, found it without flaw, and asked how muchit was worth. Capsucefalo, a little taken aback, said it cost him fourhundred sequins. 

"I will hold it as a pledge for that sum, " said the ambassador, puttingthe ring into his pocket. The other looked chop-fallen, and Murraylaughing at his retiring manners told the girl to put on her cloak and topack off with her worthy acolyte. She did so directly, and with a low bowthey disappeared. 

"Farewell, nun procurer!" said the ambassador, but the count made noanswer. 

As soon as they were gone I thanked Murray warmly for the moderation hehad shewn, as a scandal would have only injured three innocent people. 

"Be sure, " said he, "that the guilty parties shall be punished withoutanyone's knowing the reason. "

I then made Tonine come upstairs, and my English friend offered her aglass of wine, which she declined with much modesty and politeness. Murray looked at her with flaming glances, and left after giving me hisheartiest thanks. 

Poor little Tonine had been resigned, and obedient for many hours, andshe had good cause to think I had been unfaithful to her; however, I gaveher the most unmistakable proofs of my fidelity. We stayed in bed for sixhours, and rose happy in the morning. 

After dinner I hurried off to my noble M---- M----, and told her the wholestory. She listened eagerly, her various feelings flitting across herface. Fear, anger, wrath, approval of my method of clearing up my naturalsuspicions, joy at discovering me still her lover--all were depicted insuccession in her glance, and in the play of her features, and in the redand white which followed one another on her cheeks and forehead. She wasdelighted to hear that the masker who was with me in the parlour was theEnglish ambassador, but she became nobly disdainful when I told her thathe would gladly give a hundred guineas a month for the pleasure ofvisiting her in the parlour. She was angry with him for fancying that shehad been in his power, and for finding a likeness between her and aportrait, when, so she said, there was no likeness at all; I had givenher the portrait. She added, with a shrewd smile, that she was sure I hadnot let my little maid see the false nun, as she might have beenmistaken. 

"You know, do you, that I have a young servant?"

"Yes, and a pretty one, too. She is Laura's daughter, and if you love herI am very glad, and so is C---- C----. I hope you will let me have a sightof her. C---- C---- has seen her before. "

As I saw that she knew too much for me to be able to deceive her, I tookmy cue directly and told her in detail the history of my amours. Sheshewed her satisfaction too openly not to be sincere. Before I left hershe said her honour obliged her to get Capsucefalo assassinated, for thewretch had wronged her beyond pardon. By way of quieting her I promisedthat if the ambassador did not rid us of him within the week I wouldcharge myself with the execution of our common vengeance. 

About this time died Bragadin the procurator, brother of my patron, leaving M. De Bragadin sufficiently well off. However, as the familythreatened to become extinct, he desired a woman who had been hismistress, and of whom he had had a natural son, to become his wife. Bythis marriage the son would have become legitimate, and the familyrenewed again. The College of Cardinals would have recognized the wifefor a small fee, and all would have gone admirably. 

The woman wrote to me, asking me to call on her; and I was going to, curious to know what a woman, whom I did not know from Adam, could wantwith me, when I received a summons from M. De Bragadin. He begged me toask Paralis if he ought to follow De la Haye's advice in a matter he hadpromised not to confide to me, but of which the oracle must be informed. The oracle, naturally opposed to the Jesuit, told him to consult his ownfeelings and nothing else. After this I went to the lady. 

She began by telling me the whole story. She introduced her son to me, and told me that if the marriage could be performed, a deed would bedelivered in my favour by which, at the death of M. De Bragadin, I shouldbecome entitled to an estate worth five thousand crowns per annum. 

As I guessed without much trouble that this was the same matter which Dela Haye had proposed to M. De Bragadin, I answered without hesitationthat since De la Haye was before me I could do nothing, and thereuponmade her my bow. 

I could not help wondering at this Jesuit's continually intriguing tomarry my old friends without my knowledge. Two years ago, if I had notset my face against it, he would have married M. Dandolo. I cared not awhit whether the family of Bragadin became extinct or not, but I did carefor the life of my benefactor, and was quite sure that marriage wouldshorten it by many years; he was already sixty-three, and had recoveredfrom a serious apoplectic stroke. 

I went to dine with Lady Murray (English-women who are daughters of lordskeep the title), and after dinner the ambassador told me that he had toldM. Cavalli the whole story of the false nun, and that the secretary hadinformed him, the evening before, that everything had been done to hisliking. Count Capsucefalo had been sent to Cephalonia, his nativecountry, with the order never to return to Venice, and the courtezan haddisappeared. 

The fine part, or rather the fearful part, about these sentences is thatno one ever knows the reason why or wherefore, and that the lot may fallon the innocent as well as the guilty. M. M. Was delighted with theevent, and I was more pleased than she, for I should have been sorry tohave been obliged to soil my hands with the blood of that rascally count. 

There are seasons in the life of men which may be called 'fasti' and'nefasti'; I have proved this often in my long career, and on thestrength of the rubs and struggles I have had to encounter. I am able, aswell as any man, to verify the truth of this axiom. I had justexperienced a run of luck. Fortune had befriended me at play, I had beenhappy in the society of men, and from love I had nothing to ask; but nowthe reverse of the medal began to appear. Love was still kind, butFortune had quite left me, and you will soon see, reader, that men usedme no better than the blind goddess. Nevertheless, since one's fate hasphases as well as the moon, good follows evil as disasters succeed tohappiness. 

I still played on the martingale, but with such bad luck that I was soonleft without a sequin. As I shared my property with M. M. I was obligedto tell her of my losses, and it was at her request that I sold all herdiamonds, losing what I got for them; she had now only five hundredsequins by her. There was no more talk of her escaping from the convent, for we had nothing to live on! I still gamed, but for small stakes, waiting for the slow return of good luck. 

One day the English ambassador, after giving me a supper at his casinowith the celebrated Fanny Murray, asked me to let him sup at my casino atMuran, which I now only kept up for the sake of Tonine. I granted him thefavour, but did not imitate his generosity. He found my little mistresssmiling and polite, but always keeping within the bounds of decency, fromwhich he would have very willingly excused her. The next morning he wroteto me as follows:

"I am madly in love with Tonine. If you like to hand her over to me Iwill make the following provision for her: I will set her up in asuitable lodging which I will furnish throughout, and which I will giveto her with all its contents, provided that I may visit her whenever Iplease, and that she gives me all the rights of a fortunate lover. I willgive her a maid, a cook, and thirty sequins a month as provision for twopeople, without reckoning the wine, which I will procure myself. Besidesthis I will give her a life income of two hundred crowns per annum, overwhich she will have full control after living with me for a year. I giveyou a week to send your answer. "

I replied immediately that I would let him know in three days whether hisproposal were accepted, for Tonine had a mother of whom she was fond, andshe would possibly not care to do anything without her consent. I alsoinformed him that in all appearance the girl was with child. 

The business was an important one for Tonine. I loved her, but I knewperfectly well that we could not pass the rest of our lives together, andI saw no prospect of being able to make her as good a provision as thatoffered by the ambassador. Consequently I had no doubts on the question, and the very same day I went to Muran and told her all. 

"You wish to leave me, then, " said she, in tears. 

"I love you, dearest, and what I propose ought to convince you of mylove. "

"Not so; I cannot serve two masters. "

"You will only serve your new lover, sweetheart. I beg of you to reflectthat you will have a fine dowry, on the strength of which you may marrywell; and that however much I love you I cannot possibly make so good aprovision for you. "

"Leave me to-day for tears and reflection, and come to supper with meto-morrow. "

I did not fail to keep the appointment. 

"I think your English friend is a very pretty man, " she said, "and whenhe speaks in the Venetian dialect it makes me die with laughter. If mymother agrees, I might, perhaps, force myself to love him. Supposing wedid not agree we could part at the end of a year, and I should be thericher by an income of two hundred crowns. "

"I am charmed with the sense of your arguments; speak about it to yourmother. "

"I daren't, sweetheart; this kind of thing is too delicate to bediscussed between a mother and her daughter speak to her yourself. "

"I will, indeed. "

Laura, whom I had not seen since she had given me her daughter, asked forno time to think it over, but full of glee told me that now her daughterwould be able to soothe her declining years, and that she would leaveMuran of which she was tired. She shewed me a hundred and thirty sequinswhich Tonine had gained in my service, and which she had placed in herhands. 

Barberine, Tonine's younger sister, came to kiss my hand. I thought hercharming, and I gave her all the silver in my pocket. I then left, telling Laura that I should expect her at my house. She soon followed me, and gave her child a mother's blessing, telling her that she and herfamily could go and live in Venice for sixty sous a day. Tonine embracedher, and told her that she should have it. 

This important affair having been managed to everybody's satisfaction, Iwent to see M---- M----, who came into the parlour with C---- C----, whom Ifound looking sad, though prettier than ever. She was melancholy, butnone the less tender. She could not stay for more than a quarter of anhour for fear of being seen, as she was forbidden ever to go into theparlour. I told M. M. The story of Tonine, who was going to live withMurray in Venice; she was sorry to hear it, "for, " said she, "now thatyou have no longer any attraction at Muran, I shall see you less thanever. " I promised to come and see her often, but vain promises! The timewas near which parted us for ever. 

The same evening I went to tell the good news to my friend Murray. He wasin a transport of joy, and begged me to come and sup with him at hiscasino the day after next, and to bring the girl with me, that thesurrender might be made in form. I did not fail him, for once the matterwas decided, I longed to bring it to an end. In my presence he assignedto her the yearly income for her life of two hundred Venetian ducats, andby a second deed he gave her all the contents of the house with which hewas going to provide her, provided always that she lived with him for ayear. He allowed her to receive me as a friend, also to receive hermother and sisters, and she was free to go and see them when she would. Tonine threw her arms about his neck, and assured him that she wouldendeavour to please him to the utmost of her ability. "I will see him, "said she, pointing to me, "but as his friend he shall have nothing morefrom me. " Throughout this truly affecting scene she kept back her tears, but I could not conceal mine. Murray was happy, but I was not long awitness of his good fortune, the reason of which I will explain a littlelater. 

Three days afterwards Laura came to me, told me that she was living inVenice, and asked me to take her to her daughter's. I owed this woman toomuch to refuse her, and I took her there forthwith. Tonine gave thanks toGod, and also to me, and her mother took up the song, for they were notquite sure whether they were more indebted to God or to me. Tonine waseloquent in her praise of Murray, and made no complaint at my not havingcome to see her, at which I was glad. As I was going Laura asked me totake her back in my gondola, and as we had to pass by the house in whichshe lived she begged me to come in for a moment, and I could not hurt herfeelings by refusing. I owe it to my honour to remark here that I wasthus polite without thinking that I should see Barberine again. 

This girl, as pretty as her sister, though in another style, began byawakening my curiosity--a weakness which usually renders the profligateman inconstant. If all women were to have the same features, the samedisposition, and the same manners, men would not only never beinconstant, but would never be in love. Under that state of things onewould choose a wife by instinct and keep to her till death, but our worldwould then be under a different system to the present. Novelty is themaster of the soul. We know that what we do not see is very nearly thesame as what we have seen, but we are curious, we like to be quite sure, and to attain our ends we give ourselves as much trouble as if we werecertain of finding some prize beyond compare. 

Barberine, who looked upon me as an old friend--for her mother hadaccustomed her to kiss my hand whenever I went there, who had undressedmore than once in my presence without troubling about me, who knew I hadmade her sister's fortune and the family fortune as well, and thoughtherself prettier than Tonine because her skin was fairer, and because shehad fine black eyes, desiring to take her sister's place, knew that tosucceed she must take me by storm. Her common sense told her that as Ihardly ever came to the house, I should not be likely to become amorousof her unless she won me by storm; and to this end she shewed the utmostcomplaisance when she had the chance, so that I won her without anydifficulty. All this reasoning came from her own head, for I am sure hermother gave her no instructions. Laura was a mother of a kind common theworld over, but especially in Italy. She was willing to take advantage ofthe earnings of her daughters, but she would never have induced them totake the path of evil. There her virtue stopped short. 

After I had inspected her two rooms and her little kitchen, and hadadmired the cleanness which shone all around, Barberine asked me if Iwould like to see their small garden. 

"With pleasure, " I replied, "for a garden is a rarity in Venice. "

Her mother told her to give me some figs if there were any ripe ones. Thegarden consisted of about thirty square feet, and grew only salad herbsand a fine fig tree. It had not a good crop, and I told her that I couldnot see any figs. 

"I can see some at the top, " said Barberine, "and I will gather them ifyou will hold me the ladder. "

"Yes, climb away; I will hold it quite firmly. "

She stepped up lightly, and stretching out an arm to get at some figs toone side of her, she put her body off its balance, holding on to theladder with the other hand. 

"My dear Barberine, what do you think I can see?"

"What you have often seen with my sister. "

"That's true! but you are prettier than she is. "

The girl made no reply, but, as if she could not reach the fruit, she puther foot on a high branch, and spewed me the most seductive picture. Iwas in an ecstasy, and Barberine, who saw it, did not hurry herself. Atlast I helped her to come down, and letting my hand wander indiscreetly, I asked her if the fruit I held had been plucked, and she kept me a longtime telling me it was quite fresh. I took her within my arms, andalready her captive, I pressed her amorously to my heart, printing on herlips a fiery kiss, which she gave me back with as much ardour. 

"Will you give me what I have caught, dearest?"

"My mother is going to Muran to-morrow, and she will stay there all theday; if you come, there is nothing I will refuse you. "

When speech like this proceeds from a mouth still innocent, the man towhom it is addressed ought to be happy, for desires are but pain andtorment, and enjoyment is sweet because it delivers us from them. Thisshews that those who prefer a little resistance to an easy conquest arein the wrong; but a too easy conquest often points to a depraved nature, and this men do not like, however depraved they themselves may be. 

We returned to the house, and I gave Barberine a tender kiss beforeLaura's eyes, telling her that she had a very jewel in her daughter--acompliment which made her face light up with pleasure. I gave the deargirl ten sequins, and I went away congratulating myself, but cursing myluck at not being able to make as good provision for Barberine as Murrayhad made for her sister. 

Tonine had told me that for manners' sake I should sup once with her. Iwent the same evening and found Righelini and Murray there. The supperwas delicious, and I was delighted with the excellent understanding thetwo lovers had already come to. I complimented the ambassador on the lossof one of his tastes, and he told me he should be very sorry at such aloss, as it would warn him of his declining powers. 

"But, " said I, "you used to like to perform the mysterious sacrifice ofLove without a veil. "

"It was not I but Ancilla who liked it, and as I preferred pleasing herto pleasing myself, I gave in to her taste without any difficulty. "

"I am delighted with your answer, as I confess it would cost me somethingto be the witness of your exploits with Tonine. "

Having casually remarked that I had no longer a house in Muran, Righelinitold me that if I liked he could get me a delightful house at a low renton the Tondamente Nuovo. 

As this quarter facing north, and as agreeable in summer as disagreeablein winter, was opposite to Muran, where I should have to go twice a week, I told the doctor I should be glad to look at the house. 

I took leave of the rich and fortunate ambassador at midnight, and beforepassing the day with my new prize I went to sleep so as to be fresh andcapable of running a good course. 

I went to Barberine at an early hour, and as soon as she saw me she said, "My mother will not be back till the evening, and my brother will takehis dinner at the school. Here is a fowl, a ham, some cheese, and twobottles of Scopolo wine. We will take our mess whenever you like:"

"You astonish me, sweetheart, for how did you manage to get such a gooddinner?"

"We owe it to my mother, so to her be the praise. "

"You have told her, then, what we are going to do?"

"No, not I, for I know nothing about it; but I told her you were comingto see me, and at the same time I gave her the ten sequins. "

"And what did your mother say?"

"She said she wouldn't be sorry if you were to love me as you loved mysister. "

"I love you better, though I love her well. "

"You love her? Why have you left her, then?"

"I have not left her, for we supped together yesterday evening; but we nolonger live together as lovers, that is all. I have yielded her up to arich friend of mine, who has made her fortune. "

"That is well, though I don't understand much about these affairs. I hopeyou will tell Tonine that I have taken her place, and I should be verypleased if you would let her know that you are quite sure you are myfirst lover. "

"And supposing the news vexes her?"

"So much the better. Will you do it for me? it's the first favour I haveasked of you. "

"I promise to do so. "

After this rapid dialogue we took breakfast, and then, perfectly agreed, we went to bed, rather as if we were about to sacrifice to Hymen than tolove. 

The game was new to Barberine, and her transports, her greennotions--which she told me openly--her inexperience, or rather herawkwardness, enchanted me. I seemed for the first time to pluck the fruitof the tree of knowledge, and never had I tasted fruit so delicious. Mylittle maid would have been ashamed to let me see how the first thornhurt her, and to convince me that she only smelt the rose, she strove tomake me think she experienced more pleasure than is possible in a firsttrial, always more or less painful. She was not yet a big girl, the roseson her swelling breasts were as yet but buds, and she was a woman only inher heart. 

After more than one assault delivered and sustained with spirit, we gotup for dinner, and after we had refreshed ourselves we mounted once morethe altar of love, where we remained till the evening. Laura found usdressed and well pleased with each other on her return. I made Barberineanother present of twenty sequins, I swore to love her always, and wenton my way. At the time I certainly meant to keep to my oath, but thatwhich destiny had in store for me could not be reconciled with thesepromises which welled forth from my soul in a moment of excitement. 

The next morning Righelini took me to see the lodging he had spoken to meabout. I liked it and took it on the spot, paying the first quarter inadvance. The house belonged to a widow with two daughters, the elder ofwhom had just been blooded. Righelini was her doctor, and had treated herfor nine months without success. As he was going to pay her a visit Iwent in with him, and found myself in the presence of a fine waxenstatue. Surprise drew from me these words:

"She is pretty, but the sculptor should give her some colour. "

On which the statue smiled in a manner which would have been charming ifher lips had but been red. 

"Her pallor, " said Righelini, "will not astonish you when I tell you shehas just been blooded for the hundred and fourth time. "

I gave a very natural gesture of surprise. 

This fine girl had attained the age of eighteen years withoutexperiencing the monthly relief afforded by nature, the result being thatshe felt a deathly faintness three or four times a week, and the onlyrelief was to open the vein. 

"I want to send her to the country, " said the doctor, "where pure andwholesome air, and, above all, more exercise, will do her more good thanall the drugs in the world. "

After I had been told that my bed should be made ready by the evening, Iwent away with Righelini, who told me that the only cure for the girlwould be a good strong lover. 

"But my dear doctor, " said I, "can't you make your own prescription?"

"That would be too risky a game, for I might find myself compelled tomarry her, and I hate marriage like the devil. "

Though I was no better inclined towards marriage than the doctor, I wastoo near the fire not to get burnt, and the reader will see in the nextchapter how I performed the miraculous cure of bringing the colours ofhealth into the cheeks of this pallid beauty. 

CHAPTER XXV

The Fair Invalid I Cure Her--A Plot Formed to Ruin Me--What Happened atthe House of the Young Countess Bonafede--The Erberia--DomiciliaryVisit--My Conversation with M. De Bragadin--I Am Arrested by Order of theState Inquisitors. 

After leaving Dr. Righelini I went to sup with M. De Bragadin, and gavethe generous and worthy old man a happy evening. This was always thecase; I made him and his two good friends happy whenever I took mealswith them. 

Leaving them at an early hour, I went to my lodging and was greatlysurprised to find my bedroom balcony occupied. A young lady of anexquisite figure rose as soon as she saw me, and gracefully asked mepardon for the liberty she had taken. 

"I am, " she said, "the statue you saw this morning. We do not light thecandles in the evening for fear of attracting the gnats, but when youwant to go to bed we will shut the door and go away. I beg to introduceyou to my younger sister, my mother has gone to bed. "

I answered her to the effect that the balcony was always at her service, and that since it was still early I begged their permission to put on mydressing-gown and to keep them company. Her conversation was charming;she made me spend two most delightful hours, and did not leave me tilltwelve o'clock. Her younger sister lighted me a candle, and as they wentthey wished me a good night. 

I lay down full of this pretty girl, and I could not believe that she wasreally ill. She spoke to the point, she was cheerful, clever, and full ofspirits. I could not understand how it came to pass that she had not beenalready cured in a town like Venice, if her cure was really only to beeffected in the manner described by Dr. Righelini; for in spite of herpallor she seemed to me quite fair enough to charm a lover, and Ibelieved her to be spirited enough to determine to take the mostagreeable medicine a doctor can prescribe. 

In the morning I rang the bell as I was getting up, and the youngersister came into my room, and said that as they kept no servant she hadcome to do what I wanted. I did not care to have a servant when I was notat M. De Bragadin's, as I found myself more at liberty to do what Iliked. After she had done me some small services, I asked her how hersister was. 

"Very well, " said she, "for her pale complexion is not an illness, andshe only suffers when her breath fails her. She has a very good appetite, and sleeps as well as I do. "

"Whom do I hear playing the violin?"

"It's the dancing master giving my sister a lesson. "

I hurried over my dressing that I might see her; and I found hercharming, though her old dancing master allowed her to turn in her toes. All that this young and beautiful girl wanted was the Promethean spark, the colour of life; her whiteness was too like snow, and was distressingto look at. 

The dancing master begged me to dance a minuet with his pupil, and Iassented, asking him to play larghissimo. "The signorina would find ittoo tiring, " said he; but she hastened to answer that she did not feelweak, and would like to dance thus. She danced very well, but when we haddone she was obliged to throw herself in a chair. "In future, my dearmaster, " said she, "I will only dance like that, for I think the rapidmotion will do me good. "

When the master was gone, I told her that her lessons were too short, andthat her master was letting her get into bad habits. I then set her feet, her shoulders, and her arms in the proper manner. I taught her how togive her hand gracefully, to bend her knees in time; in fine, I gave hera regular lesson for an hour, and seeing that she was getting rathertired I begged her to sit down, and I went out to pay a visit to M. M. 

I found her very sad, for C---- C----'s father was dead, and they hadtaken her out of the convent to marry her to a lawyer. Before leavingC---- C---- had left a letter for me, in which she said that if I wouldpromise to marry her at some time suitable to myself, she would wait forme, and refuse all other offers. I answered her straightforwardly that Ihad no property and no prospects, that I left her free, advising her notto refuse any offer which might be to her advantage. 

In spite of this dismissal C---- C---- did not marry N---- till after myflight from The Leads, when nobody expected to see me again in Venice. Idid not see her for nineteen years, and then I was grieved to find her awidow, and poorly off. If I went to Venice now I should not marry her, for at my age marriage is an absurdity, but I would share with her mylittle all, and live with her as with a dear sister. 

When I hear women talking about the bad faith and inconstancy of men, andmaintaining that when men make promises of eternal constancy they arealways deceivers, I confess that they are right, and join in theircomplaints. Still it cannot be helped, for the promises of lovers aredictated by the heart, and consequently the lamentations of women onlymake me want to laugh. Alas! we love without heeding reason, and cease tolove in the same manner. 

About this time I received a letter from the Abbe de Bernis, who wrotealso to M---- M----. He told me that I ought to do my utmost to make ournun take a reasonable view of things, dwelling on the risks I should runin carrying her off and bringing her to Paris, where all his influencewould be of no avail to obtain for us that safety so indispensable tohappiness. I saw M---- M----; we shewed each other our letters, she hadsome bitter tears, and her grief pierced me to the heart. I still had agreat love for her in spite of my daily infidelities, and when I thoughtof those moments in which I had seen her given over to voluptuousness Icould not help pitying her fate as I thought of the days of despair instore for her. But soon after this an event happened which gave rise tosome wholesome reflections. One day, when I had come to see her, shesaid, "They have just been burying a nun who died of consumption the day beforeyesterday in the odour of sanctity. She was called 'Maria Concetta. ' Sheknew you, and told C---- C---- your name when you used to come to mass onfeast days. C---- C---- begged her to be discreet, but the nun told herthat you were a dangerous man, whose presence should be shunned by ayoung girl. C---- C---- told me all this after the mask of Pierrot. "

"What was this saint's name when she was in the world?"

"Martha. "

"I know her. "

I then told M---- M---- the whole history of my loves with Nanette andMarton, ending with the letter she wrote me, in which she said that sheowed me, indirectly, that eternal salvation to which she hoped to attain. 

In eight or ten days my conversation with my hostess'daughter--conversation which took place on the balcony, and whichgenerally lasted till midnight--and the lesson I gave her every morning, produced the inevitable and natural results; firstly, that she no longercomplained of her breath failing, and, secondly, that I fell in love withher. Nature's cure had not yet relieved her, but she no longer needed tobe let blood. Righelini came to visit her as usual, and seeing that shewas better he prophesied that nature's remedy, without which only artcould keep her alive, would make all right before the autumn. Her motherlooked upon me as an angel sent by God to cure her daughter, who for herpart shewed me that gratitude which with women is the first step towardslove. I had made her dismiss her old dancing master, and I had taught herto dance with extreme grace. 

At the end of these ten or twelve days, just as I was going to give herher lesson, her breath failed instantaneously, and she fell back into myarms like a dead woman. I was alarmed, but her mother, who had becomeaccustomed to see her thus, sent for the surgeon, and her sister unlacedher. I was enchanted with her exquisite bosom, which needed no colouringto make it more beautiful. I covered it up, saying that the surgeon wouldmake a false stroke if he were to see her thus uncovered; but feelingthat I laid my hand upon her with delight, she gently repulsed me, looking at me with a languishing gaze which made the deepest impressionon me. 

The surgeon came and bled her in the arm, and almost instantaneously sherecovered full consciousness. At most only four ounces of blood weretaken from her, and her mother telling me that this was the utmost extentto which she was blooded, I saw it was no such matter for wonder asRighelini represented it, for being blooded twice a week she lost threepounds of blood a month, which she would have done naturally if thevessels had not been obstructed. 

The surgeon had hardly gone out of the door when to my astonishment shetold me that if I would wait for her a moment she would come back andbegin her dancing. This she did, and danced as if there had been nothingthe matter. 

Her bosom, on which two of my senses were qualified to give evidence, wasthe last stroke, and made me madly in love with her. I returned to thehouse in the evening, and found her in her room with the sister. She toldme that she was expecting her god-father, who was an intimate friend ofher father's, and had come every evening to spend an hour with her forthe last eighteen years. 

"How old is he?"

"He is over fifty. "

"Is he a married man?"

"Yes, his name is Count S----. He is as fond of me as a father would be, and his affection has continued the same since my childhood. Even hiswife comes to see me sometimes, and to ask me to dinner. Neat autumn I amgoing into the country with her, and I hope the fresh air will do megood. My god-father knows you are staying with us and is satisfied. Hedoes not know you, but if you like you can make his acquaintance. "

I was glad to hear all this, as I gained a good deal of usefulinformation without having to ask any awkward questions. The friendshipof this Greek looked very like love. He was the husband of CountessS----, who had taken me to the convent at Muran two years before. 

I found the count a very polite man. He thanked me in a paternal mannerfor my kindness to his daughter, and begged me to do him the honour ofdining with him on the following day, telling me that he would introduceme to his wife. I accepted his invitation with pleasure, for I was fondof dramatic situations, and my meeting with the countess promised to bean exciting one. This invitation bespoke the courteous gentleman, and Icharmed my pretty pupil by singing his praises after he had gone. 

"My god-father, " said she, "is in possession of all the necessarydocuments for withdrawing from the house of Persico our family fortune, which amounts to forty thousand crowns. A quarter of this sum belongs tome, and my mother has promised my sister and myself to share her dowrybetween us. "

I concluded from this that she would bring her husband fifteen thousandVenetian ducats. 

I guessed that she was appealing to me with her fortune, and wished tomake me in love with her by shewing herself chary of her favours; forwhenever I allowed myself any small liberties, she checked me with words, of remonstrance to which I could find no answer. I determined to make herpursue another course. 

Next day I took her with me to her god-father's without telling her thatI knew the countess. I fancied the lady would pretend not to know me, butI was wrong, as she welcomed me in the handsomest manner as if I were anold friend. This, no doubt, was a surprise for the count, but he was toomuch a man of the world to, shew any astonishment. He asked her when shehad made my acquaintance, and she, like a woman of experience, answeredwithout the slightest hesitation that we had seen each other two yearsago at Mira. The matter was settled, and we spent a very pleasant day. 

Towards evening I took the young lady in my gondola back to the house, but wishing to shorten the journey I allowed myself to indulge in a fewcaresses. I was hurt at being responded to by reproaches, and for thatreason, as soon as she had set foot on her own doorstep, instead ofgetting out I went to Tonine's house, and spent nearly the whole nightthere with the ambassador, who came a little after me. Next day, as I didnot get up till quite late, there was no dancing lesson, and when Iexcused myself she told me not to trouble any more about it. In theevening I sat on the balcony far into the night, but she did not come. Vexed at this air of indifference I rose early in the morning and wentout, not returning till nightfall. She was on the balcony, but as shekept me at a respectful distance I only talked to her on commonplacesubjects. In the morning I was roused by a tremendous noise. I got up, and hurriedly putting on my dressing-gown ran into her room to see whatwas the matter, only to find her dying. I had no need to feign aninterest in her, for I felt the most tender concern. As it was at thebeginning of July it was extremely hot, and my fair invalid was onlycovered by a thin sheet. She could only speak to me with her eyes, butthough the lids were lowered she looked upon me so lovingly! I asked herif she suffered from palpitations, and laying my hand upon her heart Ipressed a fiery kiss upon her breast. This was the electric spark, forshe gave a sigh which did her good. She had not strength to repulse thehand which I pressed amorously upon her heart, and becoming bolder Ifastened my burning lips upon her languid mouth. I warmed her with mybreath, and my audacious hand penetrated to the very sanctuary of bliss. She made an effort to push me back, and told me with her eyes, since shecould not speak, how insulted she felt. I drew back my hand, and at thatmoment the surgeon came. Hardly was the vein opened when she drew a longbreath, and by the time the operation was over she wished to get up. Ientreated her to stay in bed, and her mother added her voice to mine; atlast I persuaded her, telling her that I would not leave her for asecond, and that I would have my dinner by her bedside. She then put on acorset and asked her sister to draw a sarcenet coverlet over her, as herlimbs could be seen as plainly as through a crape veil. 

Having given orders for my dinner, I sat down by her bedside, burningwith love, and taking her hand and covering it with kisses I told herthat I was sure she would get better if she would let herself love. 

"Alas!" she said, "whom shall I love, not knowing whether I shall beloved in return?"

I did not leave this question unanswered, and continuing the amorousdiscourse with animation I won a sigh and a lovelorn glance. I put myhand on her knee, begging her to let me leave it there, and promising togo no farther, but little by little I attained the center, and strove togive her some pleasant sensations. 

"Let me alone, " said she, in a sentimental voice, drawing away, "'tisperchance the cause of my illness. "

"No, sweetheart, " I replied, "that cannot be. " And my mouth stopped allher objections upon her lips. 

I was enchanted, for I was now in a fair way, and I saw the moment ofbliss in the distance, feeling certain that I could effect a cure if thedoctor was not mistaken. I spared her all indiscreet questions out ofregard for her modesty; but I declared myself her lover, promising to asknothing of her but what was necessary to feed the fire of my love. Theysent me up a very good dinner, and she did justice to it; afterwardssaying that she was quite well she got up, and I went away to dressmyself for going out. I came back early in the evening, and found her onmy balcony. There, as I sat close to her looking into her face, speakingby turns the language of the eyes and that of sighs, fixing my amorousgaze upon those charms which the moonlight rendered sweeter, I made hershare in the fire which consumed me; and as I pressed her amorously to mybosom she completed my bliss with such warmth that I could easily seethat she thought she was receiving a favour and not granting one. Isacrificed the victim without staining the altar with blood. 

Her sister came to tell her that it grew late. 

"Do you go to bed, " she answered; "the fresh air is doing me good, and Iwant to enjoy it a little longer. "

As soon as we were alone we went to bed together as if we had been doingit for a whole year, and we passed a glorious night, I full of love andthe desire of curing her, and she of tender and ardent voluptuousness. Atday-break she embraced me, her eyes dewy with bliss, and went to lie downin her own bed. I, like her, stood in need of a rest, and on that daythere was no talk of a dancing lesson. In spite of the fierce pleasure ofenjoyment and the transports of this delightful girl, I did not for amoment lay prudence aside. We continued to pass such nights as these forthree weeks, and I had the pleasure of seeing her thoroughly cured. Ishould doubtless have married her, if an event had not happened to metowards the end of the month, of which I shall speak lower down. 

You will remember, dear reader, about a romance by the Abbe Chiari, asatirical romance which Mr. Murray had given me, and in which I faredbadly enough at the author's hands I had small reason to be pleased withhim, and I let him know my opinion in such wise that the abbe who dreadeda caning, kept upon his guard. About the same time I received ananonymous letter, the writer of which told me that I should be betteroccupied in taking care of myself than in thoughts of chastising theabbe, for I was threatened by an imminent danger. Anonymousletter-writers should be held in contempt, but one ought to know how, onoccasion, to make the best of advice given in that way. I did nothing, and made a great mistake. 

About the same time a man named Manuzzi, a stone setter for his firsttrade, and also a spy, a vile agent of the State Inquisitors--a man ofwhom I knew nothing--found a way to make my acquaintance by offering tolet me have diamonds on credit, and by this means he got the entry of myhouse. As he was looking at some books scattered here and there about theroom, he stopped short at the manuscripts which were on magic. Enjoyingfoolishly enough, his look of astonishment, I shewed him the books whichteach one how to summon the elementary spirits. My readers will, I hope, do me the favour to believe that I put no faith in these conjuring books, but I had them by me and used to amuse myself with them as one does amuseone's self with the multitudinous follies which proceed from the heads ofvisionaries. A few days after, the traitor came to see me and told methat a collector, whose name he might not tell me, was ready to give me athousand sequins for my five books, but that he would like to examinethem first to see if they were genuine. As he promised to let me havethem back in twenty-four hours, and not thinking much about the matter, Ilet him have them. He did not fail to bring them back the next day, telling me that the collector thought them forgeries. I found out, someyears after, that he had taken them to the State Inquisitors, who thusdiscovered that I was a notable magician. 

Everything that happened throughout this fatal month tended to my ruin, for Madame Memmo, mother of Andre, Bernard, and Laurent Memmo, had takenit into her head that I had inclined her sons to atheistic opinions, andtook counsel with the old knight Antony Mocenigo, M. De Bragadin's uncle, who was angry with me, because, as he said, I had conspired to seduce hisnephew. The matter was a serious one, and an auto-da-fe was verypossible, as it came under the jurisdiction of the Holy Office--a kind ofwild beast, with which it is not good to quarrel. Nevertheless, as therewould be some difficulty in shutting me up in the ecclesiastical prisonsof the Holy Office, it was determined to carry my case before the StateInquisitors, who took upon themselves the provisional duty of putting awatch upon my manner of living. 

M. Antony Condulmer, who as a friend of Abbe Chiari's was an enemy ofmine, was then an Inquisitor of State, and he took the opportunity oflooking upon me in the light of a disturber of the peace of thecommonwealth. A secretary of an embassy, whom I knew some years after, told me that a paid informer, with two other witnesses, also, doubtless, in the pay of this grand tribunal, had declared that I was guilty of onlybelieving in the devil, as if this absurd belief, if it were possible, did not necessarily connote a belief in God! These three honest fellowstestified with an oath that when I lost money at play, on which occasionall the faithful are wont to blaspheme, I was never heard to curse thedevil. I was further accused of eating meat all the year round, of onlygoing to hear fine masses, and I was vehemently suspected of being aFreemason. It was added that I frequented the society of foreignministers, and that living as I did with three noblemen, it was certainthat I revealed, for the large sums which I was seen to lose, as manystate secrets as I could worm out of them. 

All these accusations, none of which had any foundation in fact, servedthe Tribunal as a pretext to treat me as an enemy of the commonwealth andas a prime conspirator. For several weeks I was counselled by personswhom I might have trusted to go abroad whilst the Tribunal was engaged onmy case. This should have been enough, for the only people who can livein peace at Venice are those whose existence the Tribunal is ignorant of, but I obstinately despised all these hints. If I had listened to theindirect advice which was given me, I should have become anxious, and Iwas the sworn foe of all anxiety. I kept saying to myself, "I feelremorse for nothing and I am therefore guilty of nothing, and theinnocent have nothing to fear. " I was a fool, for I argued as if I hadbeen a free man in a free country. I must also confess that what to agreat extent kept me from thinking of possible misfortune was the actualmisfortune which oppressed me from morning to night. I lost every day, Iowed money everywhere, I had pawned all my jewels, and even my portraitcases, taking the precaution, however, of removing the portraits, whichwith my important papers and my amorous letters I had placed in the handsof Madame Manzoni. I found myself avoided in society. An old senator toldme, one day, that it was known that the young Countess Bonafede hadbecome mad in consequence of the love philtres I had given her. She wasstill at the asylum, and in her moments of delirium she did nothing bututter my name with curses. I must let my readers into the secret of thissmall history. 

This young Countess Bonafede, to whom I had given some sequins a few daysafter my return to Venice, thought herself capable of making me continuemy visits, from which she had profited largely. Worried by her letters Iwent to see her several times, and always left her a few sequins, butwith the exception of my first visit I was never polite enough to giveher any proofs of my affection. My coldness had baulked all herendeavours for a year, when she played a criminal part, of which, thoughI was never able absolutely to convict her, I had every reason to believeher guilty. 

She wrote me a letter, in which she importuned me to come and see her ata certain hour on important business. 

My curiosity, as well as a desire to be of service to her, took me thereat the appointed time; but as soon as she saw me she flung her arms roundmy neck, and told me that the important business was love. This made melaugh heartily, and I was pleased to find her looking neater than usual, which, doubtless, made me find her looking prettier. She reminded me ofSt. Andre, and succeeded so well in her efforts that I was on the pointof satisfying her desires. I took off my cloak, and asked her if herfather were in. She told me he had gone out. Being obliged to go out fora minute, in coming back I mistook the door, and I found myself in thenext room, where I was much astonished to see the count and twovillainous-looking fellows with him. 

"My dear count, " I said, "your daughter has just told me that you wereout. "

"I myself told her to do so, as I have some business with thesegentlemen, which, however, can wait for another day. "

I would have gone, but he stopped me, and having dismissed the two men hetold me that he was delighted to see me, and forthwith began the tale ofhis troubles, which were of more than one kind. The State Inquisitors hadstopped his slender pension, and he was on the eve of seeing himselfdriven out with his family into the streets to beg his bread. He saidthat he had not been able to pay his landlord anything for three years, but if he could pay only a quarter's rent, he would obtain a respite, orif he persisted in turning him out, he could make a night-flitting of it, and take up his abode somewhere else. As he only wanted twenty ducats, Itook out six sequins and gave them to him. He embraced me, and shed tearsof joy; then, taking his poor cloak, he called his daughter, told her tokeep me company, and went out. 

Alone with the countess, I examined the door of communication between thetwo rooms and found it slightly open. 

"Your father, " I said, "would have surprised me, and it is easy to guesswhat he would have done with the two sbirri who were with him. The plotis clear, and I have only escaped from it by the happiest of chances. "

She denied, wept, called God to witness, threw herself on her knees; butI turned my head away, and taking my cloak went away without a word. Shekept on writing to me, but her letters remained unanswered, and I saw herno more. 

It was summer-time, and between the heat, her passions, hunger, andwretchedness, her head was turned, and she became so mad that she wentout of the house stark naked, and ran up and down St. Peter's Place, asking those who stopped her to take her to my house. This sad story wentall over the town and caused me a great deal of annoyance. The poorwretch was sent to an asylum, and did not recover her reason for fiveyears. When she came out she found herself reduced to beg her bread inthe streets, like all her brothers, except one, whom I found a cadet inthe guards of the King of Spain twelve years afterwards. 

At the time of which I am speaking all this had happened a year ago, butthe story was dug up against me, and dressed out in the attire offiction, and thus formed part of those clouds which were to dischargetheir thunder upon me to my destruction. 

In the July of 1755 the hateful court gave Messer-Grande instructions tosecure me, alive or dead. In this furious style all orders for arrestsproceeding from the Three were issued, for the least of their commandscarried with it the penalty of death. 

Three or four days before the Feast of St. James, my patron saint, M---- M---- made me a present of several ells of silver lace to trim asarcenet dress which I was going to wear on the eve of the feast. I wentto see her, dressed in my fine suit, and I told her that I should comeagain on the day following to ask her to lend me some money, as I did notknow where to turn to find some. She was still in possession of the fivehundred sequins which she had put aside when I had sold her diamonds. 

As I was sure of getting the money in the morning I passed the night atplay, and I lost the five hundred sequins in advance. At day-break, beingin need of a little quiet, I went to the Erberia, a space of ground onthe quay of the Grand Canal. Here is held the herb, fruit, and flowermarket. 

People in good society who come to walk in the Erberia at a rather earlyhour usually say that they come to see the hundreds of boats laden withvegetables, fruit and flowers, which hail from the numerous islands nearthe town; but everyone knows that they are men and women who have beenspending the night in the excesses of Venus or Bacchus, or who have lostall hope at the gaming-table, and come here to breath a purer air and tocalm their minds. The fashion of walking in this place shews how thecharacter of a nation changes. The Venetians of old time who made asgreat a mystery of love as of state affairs, have been replaced by themodern Venetians, whose most prominent characteristic is to make amystery of nothing. Those who come to the Erberia with women wish toexcite the envy of their friends by thus publishing their good fortune. Those who come alone are on the watch for discoveries, or on the look-outfor materials to make wives or husbands jealous, the women only come tobe seen, glad to let everybody know that they are without any restraintupon their actions. There was certainly no question of smartness there, considering the disordered style of dress worn. The women seemed to haveagreed to shew all the signs of disorder imaginable, to give those whosaw them something to talk about. As for the men, on whose arms theyleaned, their careless and lounging airs were intended to give the ideaof a surfeit of pleasure, and to make one think that the disorderedappearance of their companions was a sure triumph they had enjoyed. Inshort it was the correct thing to look tired out, and as if one stood inneed of sleep. 

This veracious description, reader, will not give you a very high opinionof the morals of my dear fellow citizens; but what object should I haveat my age for deceiving? Venice is not at the world's end, but is wellenough known to those whose curiosity brings them into Italy; andeveryone can see for himself if my pictures are overdrawn. 

After walking up and down for half an hour, I came away, and thinking thewhole house still a-bed I drew my key out to open the door, but what wasmy astonishment to find it useless, as the door was open, and what ismore, the lock burst off. I ran upstairs, and found them all up, and mylandlady uttering bitter lamentations. 

"Messer-Grande, " she told me, "has entered my house forcibly, accompaniedby a band of sbirri. He turned everything upside down, on the pretextthat he was in search of a portmanteau full of salt--a highly contrabandarticle. He said he knew that a portmanteau had been landed there theevening before, which was quite true; but it belonged to Count S----, andonly contained linen and clothes. Messer-Grande, after inspecting it, went out without saying a word. "

He had also paid my room a visit. She told me that she must have somereparation made her, and thinking she was in the right I promised tospeak to M. De Bragadin on the matter the same day. Needing rest aboveall things, I lay down, but my nervous excitement, which I attributed tomy heavy losses at play, made me rise after three or four hours, and Iwent to see M. De Bragadin, to whom I told the whole story begging him topress for some signal amends. I made a lively representation to him ofall the grounds on which my landlady required proportionate amends to bemade, since the laws guaranteed the peace of all law-abiding people. 

I saw that the three friends were greatly saddened by what I said, andthe wise old man, quietly but sadly, told me that I should have my answerafter dinner. 

De la Haye dined with us, but all through the meal, which was amelancholy one, he spoke not a word. His silence should have told me all, if I had not been under the influence of some malevolent genii who wouldnot allow me to exercise my common sense: as to the sorrow of my threefriends, I put that down to their friendship for me. My connection withthese worthy men had always been the talk of the town, and as all wereagreed that it could not be explained on natural grounds, it was deemedto be the effect of some sorcery exercised by me. These three men werethoroughly religious and virtuous citizens; I was nothing if notirreligious, and Venice did not contain a greater libertine. Virtue, itwas said, may have compassion on vice, but cannot become its friend. 

After dinner M. De Bragadin took me into his closet with his two friends, from whom he had no secrets. He told me with wonderful calmness thatinstead of meditating vengeance on Messer-Grande I should be thinking ofputting myself in a place of safety. "The portmanteau, " said he, "was amere pretext; it was you they wanted and thought to find. Since your goodgenius has made them miss you, look out for yourself; perhaps byto-morrow it may be too late. I have been a State Inquisitor for eightmonths, and I know the way in which the arrests ordered by the court arecarried out. They would not break open a door to look for a box of salt. Indeed, it is possible that they knew you were out, and sought to warnyou to escape in this manner. Take my advice, my dear son, and set outdirectly for Fusina, and thence as quickly as you can make your way toFlorence, where you can remain till I write to you that you may returnwith safety. If you have no money I will give you a hundred sequins forpresent expenses. Believe me that prudence bids you go. "

Blinded by my folly, I answered him that being guilty of nothing I hadnothing to fear, and that consequently, although I knew his advice wasgood, I could not follow it. 

"The high court, " said he, "may deem you guilty of crimes real orimaginary; but in any case it will give you no account of the accusationsagainst you. Ask your oracle if you shall follow my advice or not. " Irefused because I knew the folly of such a proceeding, but by way ofexcuse I said that I only consulted it when I was in doubt. Finally, Ireasoned that if I fled I should be shewing fear, and thus confessing myguilt, for an innocent man, feeling no remorse, cannot reasonably beafraid of anything. 

"If secrecy, " said I, "is of the essence of the Court, you cannotpossibly judge, after my escape, whether I have done so rightly orwrongly. The same reasons, which, according to your excellence, bid mego, would forbid my return. Must I then say good-bye for ever to mycountry, and all that is dear to me?" As a last resource he tried topersuade me to pass the following day and night, at least, at the palace. I am still ashamed of having refused the worthy old man to whom I owed somuch this favour; for the palace of a noble is sacred to the police whodare not cross its threshold without a special order from the Tribunal, which is practically never given; by yielding to his request I shouldhave avoided a grievous misfortune, and spared the worthy old man someacute grief. 

I was moved to see M. De Bragadin weeping, and perhaps I might havegranted to his tears that which I had obstinately refused to hisarguments and entreaties. "For Heaven's sake!" said I, "spare me theharrowing sight of your tears. " In an instant he summoned all hisstrength to his assistance, made some indifferent remarks, and then, witha smile full of good nature, he embraced me, saying, "Perhaps I may befated never to see you again, but 'Fata viam invenient'. "

I embraced him affectionately, and went away, but his prediction wasverified, for I never saw him again; he died eleven years afterwards. Ifound myself in the street without feeling the slightest fear, but I wasin a good deal of trouble about my debts. I had not the heart to go toMuran to take away from M. M. Her last five hundred sequins, which sum Iowed to the man who won it from me in the night; I preferred asking himto wait eight days, and I did so. After performing this unpleasant pieceof business I returned home, and, having consoled my landlady to theutmost of my power, I kissed the daughter, and lay down to sleep. Thedate was July 25th, 1755. 

Next morning at day-break who should enter my room but the awfulMesser-Grande. To awake, to see him, and to hear him asking if I wereJacques Casanova, was the work of a moment. At my "yes, I am Casanova, "he told me to rise, to put on my clothes, to give him all the papers andmanuscripts in my possession, and to follow him. 

"On whose authority do you order me to do this?"

"By the authority of the Tribunal. "