It was therefore at a moment of more than usual parade of splendor that the poet entered on the scene of his renown and his misfortune.

He was twenty-one years of age; and twenty-one years had to elapse before he should quit Ferrara, ruined in physical and mental health,--_quantum mutatus ab illo_ Torquato! The diffident and handsome stripling, famous as the author of _Rinaldo_, was welcomed in person with special honors by the Cardinal, his patron.

Of such favors as Court-lacqueys prize, Tasso from the first had plenty.

He did not sit at the common table of the serving gentlemen, but ate his food apart; and after a short residence, the Princesses, sisters of the Duke, invited him to share their meals.

The next five years formed the happiest and most tranquil period of his existence.