Gazing eagerly at the stand to the right, he tried to catch sight of Ippolita Albonico, but could distinguish no one among the multitude of ladies.

The Marchesa d'Ateleta, who had heard of the quarrel, made him a sign of reproof from afar.
'How is the betting on Mallecho ?' he asked of Ludovico Barbarisi.
As he moved towards the starting-post, he reflected calmly on the means he would employ for winning, and considered his three rivals critically, calculating the strength and science of each of them.

Paolo Caligaro was a tricky devil, as thoroughly versed in all the knavery of the stable as any jockey; but Carbonilla, although fast, had little staying power.

The Duke di Beffi, a rider of the 'haute ecole' style, who had come off victorious in more than one race in England, was mounted on an animal of uncertain temper which would probably refuse some of the jumps.
Giannetto Rutolo, on the contrary, was riding a well-bred and well-trained horse, but though he was a very capable rider he was too impetuous; moreover, this was the first time he had taken part in a public race.

Besides, he must be in a terrible state of nervous irritation, as was apparent from numerous signs.
As he looked at him, Andrea thought to himself--'I have no doubt that my victory to-day would influence the course of the duel to-morrow.