Now for breakfast." After our meal, the count, who had heard from me some portion of my history, thought that my confidence called for a return on his part, and he began: "I am the Count de Bonafede.

In my early days I served under Prince Eugene, but I gave up the army, and entered on a civil career in Austria.

I had to fly from Austria and take refuge in Bavaria in consequence of an unfortunate duel.

In Munich I made the acquaintance of a young lady belonging to a noble family; I eloped with her and brought her to Venice, where we were married.

I have now been twenty years in Venice.