There is a dismal old staircase to climb, however, before reaching the top, and a succession of dismal chambers, from story to story.

Some of them were prison chambers in times past, as old Tomaso will tell you." The repugnance intimated in his tone at the idea of this gloomy staircase and these ghostly, dimly lighted rooms, reminded Kenyon of the original Donatello, much more than his present custom of midnight vigils on the battlements.
"I shall be glad to share your watch," said the guest; "especially by moonlight.

The prospect of this broad valley must be very fine.

But I was not aware, my friend, that these were your country habits.

I have fancied you in a sort of Arcadian life, tasting rich figs, and squeezing the juice out of the sunniest grapes, and sleeping soundly all night, after a day of simple pleasures." "I may have known such a life, when I was younger," answered the Count gravely.