I congratulate you!" Cellini bowed gaily in response to the half-friendly, half-mocking curtsey she gave him, and, turning to me again, said: "I have a favour to ask of you, mademoiselle.

Will you sit to me for your portrait ?" "I!" I exclaimed, with astonishment.

"Signor Cellini, I cannot imagine why you should wish so to waste your valuable time.

There is nothing in my poor physiognomy worthy of your briefest attention." "You must pardon me, mademoiselle," he replied gravely, "if I presume to differ from you.

I am exceedingly anxious to transfer your features to my canvas.