In their earlier meetings the lover did not venture beyond compliments and modest protestations of devotion.

But as time went on, he advanced to kisses and caresses, and once he made Virginia take a little jewel into her mouth.

This was a white loadstone, blessed by Arrigone, and intended to operate like a love-charm.

The girl, in fact, began to feel the influence of her seducer.

In the final confession which she made, she relates how she fought against temptation.