But as it was very rarely that Paolina had ever opposed her in any thing, she was the less prepared to resist opposition on the present occasion.

And as Paolina was in this matter obstinate, old Orsola yielded; and set forth by herself to walk to the Palazzo Castelmare.

Nobody had ever any difficulty in obtaining access to the popular Marchese; and the Signora Orsola Steno was at once ushered into his library,--presented her letter, and was received with all courtesy and kindness.
To receive recommendations of all sorts, to be asked to render all kinds of services, was nothing new or uncommon to the Marchese.

He ran over the Englishman's letter rapidly.
"Va bene! va bene! At your service, Signora! I shall be most happy to give you all the assistance in my power.

I remember very well that Signor Vilobe (Willoughby was the Englishman's name) was desirous of procuring copies of some of our mosaics.