"Why," I answered, feigning a little embarrassment, "because there will be more chance for other men who may seek to possess the hand of the accomplished and beautiful Contessa Romani." She shook her fair head slightly.

A transient expression of disappointment passed over her features.
"The 'other men' you speak of, conte, are not likely to indulge in such an ambition," she said, with a faint sigh; "more especially," and her eyes flashed indignantly, "since Signor Ferrari thinks it his duty to mount guard over me.

I suppose he wishes to keep me for himself--a most impertinent and foolish notion! There is only one thing to do--I shall leave Naples before he returns." "Why ?" I asked.
She flushed deeply.

"I wish to avoid him," she said, after a little pause; "I tell you frankly, he has lately given me much cause for annoyance.

I will not be persecuted by his attentions; and as I before said to you, I am often afraid of him.