Giulia had inspired him, four years before, with a boyish love, and it had steadily increased until he felt that, however great his success in life as Messer Polani's partner, his happiness would be incomplete unless shared by Giulia.

Polani cut short his words by saying: "My dear boy, I am as pleased that this should be so as you are.

I now feel that I have, indeed, gained a son and secured the happiness of my daughter.

Go in to her now.

You will find her in the embroidery room.