The Cardinal came back thither at the end of April, 1350, and, after dispensing his blessings, spiritual and temporal, set out for Avignon, travelling by way of Milan and Genoa.

Petrarch accompanied the prelate out of personal attachment on a part of his journey.

The Cardinal was fond of his conversation, but sometimes rallied the poet on his enthusiasm for his native Italy.

When they reached the territory of Verona, near the lake of Guarda, they were struck by the beauty of the prospect, and stopped to contemplate it.

In the distance were the Alps, topped with snow even in summer.