If a _piffero_ strolled through the street, the monotonous drone of his bagpipe was reproduced in most comical imitation; and anon there was a gush of bird-songs, as if a whole aviary were in the vicinity.

Indeed, no half-hour passed without audible indication that the little recluse was in merry mood.
At the appointed time Mr.Green came to conduct them to the Vatican.
They ascended the wide slopes, and passed through open courts into long passages lined with statues, and very dimly lighted with occasional lamps.

Here and there a marble figure was half revealed, and looked so spectral in the gloaming that they felt as if they were entering the world of spirits.

Several members of the party preceded them, and all seemed to feel the hushing influence, for they passed on in silence, and stepped softly as they entered the great Palace of Art.

The torch-bearers were soon in readiness to illuminate the statues, which they did by holding a covered light over each, making it stand out alone in the surrounding darkness, with very striking effects of light and shadow.