He also wondered how long it would take San Miniato to drown if he were dropped overboard in the wake of the boat.
"If that is your opinion of your daughter," said the latter, "we shall hardly agree.

Now I maintain that Donna Beatrice is the contrary of insufferable--the most extreme of contraries.

In the first place---" "She is very pretty," said Beatrice demurely.
"I was not going to say that," laughed San Miniato.
"Ah?
Then say something else." "I will.

Donna Beatrice has two gifts, at least, which make it impossible that she should ever be insufferable, even when her beauty is gone." "Dio mio!" ejaculated the young girl.

"The compliments are beginning in good earnest!" "It was time," said San Miniato, "since your mother---" "Dear Count," interrupted Beatrice, "do not talk any more about mamma.