Meanwhile certain incidents occurred that delayed the intended nuptials of the heiress of Pisani.

When he returned to Rome Count Malvesi was absent.

Lady Lucretia, who had been considerably amused before with the conversation of Mr.Falkland, and who had an active and enquiring mind, had conceived, in the interval between his first and second residence at Rome, a desire to be acquainted with the English language, inspired by the lively and ardent encomiums of our best authors that she had heard from their countryman.

She had provided herself with the usual materials for that purpose, and had made some progress during his absence.

But upon his return she was forward to make use of the opportunity, which, if missed, might never occur again with equal advantage, of reading select passages of our poets with an Englishman of uncommon taste and capacity.
This proposal necessarily led to a more frequent intercourse.