CHAPTER 1.VII.Upon Love and Lovers.
If, in adopting the legendary love tale of Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare had changed the scene in which it is cast for a more northern clime, we may doubt whether the art of Shakespeare himself could have reconciled us at once to the suddenness and the strength of Juliet's passion.

And, even as it is, perhaps there are few of our rational and sober-minded islanders who would not honestly confess, if fairly questioned, that they deem the romance and fervour of those ill-starred lovers of Verona exaggerated and over-drawn.

Yet, in Italy, the picture of that affection born of a night--but "strong as death"-- is one to which the veriest commonplaces of life would afford parallels without number.

As in different ages, so in different climes, love varies wonderfully in the shapes it takes.

And even at this day, beneath Italian skies, many a simple girl would feel as Juliet, and many a homely gallant would rival the extravagance of Romeo.