Supposing I obtain for you an engagement to read literature with the Contessina di Lira, will you not be a professor?
If you prefer singing--" But Nino comprehended in a flash the whole scope of the proposal, and threw his arm round Ercole's neck and embraced him.
"What a mind! Oh, maestro mio, I will die for you! Command me, and I will do anything for you; I will run errands for you, black your boots, anything--" he cried in the ecstasy of delight that overmastered him.
"Piano, piano," objected the maestro, disengaging himself from his pupil's embrace.

"It is not done yet.

There is much, much to think of first." Nino retreated, a little disconcerted at not finding his enthusiasm returned, but radiant still.
"Calm yourself," said Ercole, smiling.

"If you do this thing you must act a part.

You must manage to conceal your occupation entirely.