But when Pompilia touches characters who have any good, however hidden, in them, she draws forth that good.

Her so-called parents pass before they die out of meanness into nobility of temper.

Conti, her husband's cousin, a fat, waggish man of the world, changes into seriousness, pity and affection under her silent influence.

The careless folk she meets on her flight to Rome recognise, even in most suspicious circumstances, her innocence and nobleness; and change at a touch their ordinary nature for a higher.

And when she meets a fine character like Caponsacchi, who has been led into a worldly, immoral and indifferent life, he is swept in a moment out of it by the sight alone of this star of innocence and spiritual beauty, and becomes her true mate, daily self-excelled.