"I like it, I own, even from Francisco.

It may not mean anything, but it is pleasant nevertheless; besides, one likes to think that there is just a little truth in it, not much, perhaps, but just a little in what Francisco said, for instance.

Of course we are not all Venice to him.
Still, just as we are pleased to see him, he is pleased to see us; and why shouldn't he say so in a pretty way?
It's all very well for you to set up as being above flattery, Giulia, but you are young yet.

I have no doubt you will like it when you get as old as I am." Giulia shook her head decidedly.
"I always think," she said, "when I hear a man saying flattering things to a girl, that it is the least complimentary thing he can do, for it is treating her as if he considers that she is a fool, otherwise he would never say such outrageous nonsense to her." "There, Francisco," Maria laughed, "you are fairly warned now.

Beware how you venture to pay any compliment to Giulia in future.
"It would be a dull world if every one were to think as you do, Giulia, and to say exactly as they meant.