And bearing these remarks in mind, you will understand that I do not wish to hear any observations on the subject of the choice I have made.

My choice is made; and that is sufficient." The Marchese looked up into the lawyer's face, and paused for some reply to these preliminary observations before proceeding to tell his secret; but the lawyer maintained a look and attitude of silent expectation.
"It is my intention," proceeded the Marchese, "to marry the Signora Bianca Lalli;--the lady whose conduct, as well as her talent, has won the good opinion of the entire city." The old lawyer flung down on the table, with a clatter, a paper-knife which he had taken into his hand while speaking, and rising abruptly from his chair, took one or two turns across the room before he answered a word.

Then coming in front of the Marchese, and still continuing to stand, he said, "You have warned me, Signor Marchese, not to make any remarks on the communication you have just made to me.

There is one, however, which perforce I must make.

It is that I must decline to take any instructions, or to act in any way, for the forwarding of such a purpose." "There are other attorneys in Ravenna, Signor Fortini." "Plenty, Signor Marchese; plenty who will be abundantly ready to do your bidding.