A similar dependent spirit was manifested in his action as a man of letters.

Before publishing the _Amadigi_ he submitted it to private criticism, with the inevitable result of obtaining feigned praises and malevolent strictures.

Irresolution lay at the root of his treatment of Torquato.
While groaning under the collar of courtly servitude, he determined that the youth should study law.

While reckoning how little his own literary fame had helped him, he resolved that his son should adopt a lucrative profession.

Yet no sooner had Torquato composed his _Rinaldo_, than the fond parent had it printed, and immediately procured a place for him in the train of the Cardinal Luigi d'Este.