Still he had tradition to support him, confirmed by the assurance of the head of the Canossa family.

Nobody could accuse him of being a snob or parvenu.

He lived like a poor man, indifferent to dress, establishment, and personal appearances.

Yet he prided himself upon his ancient birth; and since the Simoni had been indubitably noble for several generations, there was nothing despicable in his desire to raise his kinsfolk to their proper station.

Almost culpably careless in all things that concerned his health and comfort, he spent his earnings for the welfare of his brothers, in order that an honourable posterity might carry on the name he bore, and which he made illustrious.