He now virtually subsisted on the liberality of his uncle the Cardinal, and was almost always short of money.

But, like all the Romans, he would, if necessary, have rather lived on bread and water than have forgone his carriage, horse, and coachman.

An equipage, indeed, is the one indispensable luxury of Rome.
"If you will come with me, Monsieur l'Abbe Froment," said the young Prince, "I will show you the most interesting part of our city." He doubtless desired to please Benedetta, by behaving amiably towards her protege.

Idle as he was, too, it seemed to him a pleasant occupation to initiate that young priest, who was said to be so intelligent, into what he deemed the inimitable side, the true florescence of Roman life.
Pierre was compelled to accept, although he would have preferred a solitary stroll.

Yet he was interested in this young man, the last born of an exhausted race, who, while seemingly incapable of either thought or action, was none the less very seductive with his high-born pride and indolence.