Del Ferice was wise enough to keep his own counsel; but now that his hatred was thoroughly roused, he might very likely make use of the knowledge he possessed.

Donna Tullia's curiosity was excited to its highest pitch, and at the same time she had pleasant visions of the possible humiliation of the man by whom she felt herself so ill-used.
It would be worth while making the sacrifice in order to learn Del Fence's secret.
"This need not be a mere jest," she said, after a moment's silence.
"That is as you please," returned Del Ferice, seriously.

"If you are willing to do your part, you may be sure that I will do mine." "You cannot think I really meant what I said just now," replied Donna Tullia.

"It would be madness." "Why?
Am I halt, am I lame, am I blind?
Am I repulsively ugly?
Am I a pauper, that I should care for your money?
Have I not loved you--yes, loved you long and faithfully?
Am I too old?
Is there anything in the nature of things why I should not aspire to be your husband ?" It was strange.

He spoke calmly, as though enumerating the advantages of a friend.