She was beautiful, young, full of wit and talent; she was fond of literary pursuits, and very powerful in Rome; what more was necessary?
Yet I thought it would be good policy to appear ignorant of her inclination for me, and to let her suppose from the very next day that I was in love with her, but that my love appeared to me hopeless.

I knew that such a plan was infallible, because it saved her dignity.

It seemed to me that Father Georgi himself would be compelled to approve such an undertaking, and I had remarked with great satisfaction that Cardinal Acquaviva had expressed his delight at Cardinal S.C.'s invitation--an honour which he had never yet bestowed on me himself.

This affair might have very important results for me.
I read the marchioness's sonnet, and found it easy, flowing, and well written.

It was composed in praise of the King of Prussia, who had just conquered Silesia by a masterly stroke.