And though I would gladly have saved you from suffering, I cannot but see that your character has been elevated by it.

Since I have known you here in Rome, I have been surprised to observe how the young romantic girl has ripened into the thoughtful, prudent woman.

I will not urge you for an answer now, my dear Miss Royal.

Take as much time as you please to reflect upon it.
Meanwhile, if you choose to devote your fine musical genius to the opera, I trust you will allow me to serve you in any way that a brother could under similar circumstances.

If you prefer to be a concert-singer, my father had a cousin who married in England, where she has a good deal of influence in the musical world.