The objections to the alliance, as you call it, are that you are a man of the people,--I do not desire to offend you,--a plebeian, in fact; you are also a man of uncertain fortune, like all singers: and lastly, you are an artist.

I trust you will consider these points as a sufficient reason for my declining the honour you propose." "I will only say," returned Nino, "that I venture to consider your reasons insufficient, though I do not question your decision.

Baron Benoni was ennobled for a loan made to a Government in difficulties; he was, by his own account, a shoemaker by early occupation, and a strolling musician--a great artist if you like--by the profession he adopted." "I never heard these facts," said Lira, "and I suspect that you have been misinformed.

But I do not wish to continue the discussion of the subject." Nino says that after the incident of the pistols the interview passed without the slightest approach to ill-temper on either side.

They both felt that if they disagreed they were prepared to settle their difficulties then and there, without any further ado.
"Then, sir, before we part, permit me to call your attention to a matter which must be of importance to you," said Nino.