CHAPTER IV.
I receive the minor orders from the patriarch of Venice-- I get acquainted with Senator Malipiero, with Therese Imer, with the niece of the Curate, with Madame Orio, with Nanette and Marton, and with the Cavamacchia--I become a preacher-- My adventure with Lucie at Pasean A rendezvous on the third story.
[Illustration: 1c04.jpg] "He comes from Padua, where he has completed his studies." Such were the words by which I was everywhere introduced, and which, the moment they were uttered, called upon me the silent observation of every young man of my age and condition, the compliments of all fathers, and the caresses of old women, as well as the kisses of a few who, although not old, were not sorry to be considered so for the sake of embracing a young man without impropriety.

The curate of Saint-Samuel, the Abbe Josello, presented me to Monsignor Correre, Patriarch of Venice, who gave me the tonsure, and who, four months afterwards, by special favour, admitted me to the four minor orders.

No words could express the joy and the pride of my grandmother.

Excellent masters were given to me to continue my studies, and M.Baffo chose the Abbe Schiavo to teach me a pure Italian style, especially poetry, for which I had a decided talent.

I was very comfortably lodged with my brother Francois, who was studying theatrical architecture.