But with proper care, voice, though a perishable thing, is not so rapidly and fatally so, as mere beauty of face; that is sure to go very soon.

I have not troubled myself to inquire, as you may imagine, much about the state of La Lalli's good looks.

But I have informed myself of the condition of her voice, as it was my duty to do.

And I think that in that respect, which is the only one we need care about, the city will find that we have not done badly." "For my part, I confess a romanzo comes very specially recommended to my ears from a lovely mouth!" said Ludovico; "and I fully expect to find La Lalli quite up to the mark in this respect.

I shall be disappointed if she is not." "From all I have heard, we shall none of us be disappointed!" said Manutoli.
"We shall see in a few minutes!" returned Ludovico, looking at his watch.
"There's something in the road now, I think, as far as I can see!" said Manutoli, who had stood up in the carriage, holding the rail of the driver's seat with one hand.