She was the very reverse of Venetian
in character and manner, but since she had been so honored by the
Republic that difference was recognized as her distinction and charm.
"I doubt not," Marcantonio said, laughingly, "that if nuns might take
part in our social functions thou wouldst prefer them also to thine own
maidens and all the noble ladies of the Canal Grande. But who held part
in this interesting ridotto to-night?"
"Truly, Marco, I think some day perchance I may get a dispensation and
have all the nuns of San Donate for baby's festa in the oratory--would
it not be beautiful to hear them chanting in our own palazzo! But that
is only a dream; I know not if it may ever be."
She came toward him, in her shimmering festal robes, with the
unconscious, happy grace of a child, dropping into a low seat close
beside him, leaning back and letting her hands fall in an attitude of
complete repose, while she gave him, without effort, the detail of the
evening's talk. He was a little surprised at the way in which she made
this graphic recital of a discussion he would have supposed beyond her
comprehension--or at least beyond her concern--and he was not wholly
pleased.
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