As our readings generally treated of love, Agnes was never permitted to assist at them.

I was just congratulating myself on having finished 'The Loves of Tristan and the Queen Iseult----' 'Ah! The Unfortunates!' cried the Baroness; 'How say you, Segnor?
Do you think it possible for Man to feel an attachment so disinterested and sincere ?' 'I cannot doubt it,' replied I; 'My own heart furnishes me with the certainty.

Ah! Donna Rodolpha, might I but hope for your approbation of my love! Might I but confess the name of my Mistress without incurring your resentment!' She interrupted me.
'Suppose, I were to spare you that confession?
Suppose I were to acknowledge that the object of your desires is not unknown to me?
Suppose I were to say that She returns your affection, and laments not less sincerely than yourself the unhappy vows which separate her from you ?' 'Ah! Donna Rodolpha!' I exclaimed, throwing myself upon my knees before her, and pressing her hand to my lips, 'You have discovered my secret! What is your decision?
Must I despair, or may I reckon upon your favour ?' She withdrew not the hand which I held; But She turned from me, and covered her face with the other.
'How can I refuse it you ?' She replied; 'Ah! Don Alphonso, I have long perceived to whom your attentions were directed, but till now I perceived not the impression which they made upon my heart.
At length I can no longer hide my weakness either from myself or from you.

I yield to the violence of my passion, and own that I adore you! For three long months I stifled my desires; But grown stronger by resistance, I submit to their impetuosity.

Pride, fear, and honour, respect for myself, and my engagements to the Baron, all are vanquished.