There is no reason to suppose that these estimable qualities did not distinguish him in private life.

Yet eight out of the eighteen pages of his biography are devoted to comically solemn details regarding the honors paid him by Italian princes.

The Grand Duke of Florence, Ferdinand I., noticed him standing with uncovered head at a theatrical representation in the Pitti Palace.

He bade the poet put his cap on and sit down.

Cosimo, the heir apparent, showed the same condescending courtesy.