We bookworms," added Andrea Barrofaldi, with a glance of triumph at his neighbor, for he now expected to give the podesta an illustration of the practical benefits of general learning, a subject that had often been discussed between them, "we bookworms can manage these trifles in our own way; and if you will consent to enter into a short dialogue on the subject of England, her habits, language, and laws, this question will be speedily put at rest." "You have me at command; and nothing would delight me more than to chat for a few minutes about that little island.

It is not large, Signore, and is doubtless of little worth; but, as my country, it is much in my eyes." "This is natural.

And now, Signor Capitano," added Andrea, glancing at, the podesta, to make sure that he was listening, "will you have the goodness to explain to me what sort of a government this Inghilterra possesses--whether monarchy, aristocracy, or democracy ?" "Peste!--that is not so easily answered.

There is a king, and yet there are powerful lords; and a democracy, too, that sometimes gives trouble enough.

Your question might puzzle a philosopher, Signor Vice-governatore." "This may be true enough, neighbor Vito Viti, for the constitution of Inghilterra is an instrument of many strings.