I have heard with considerable anxiety that there is a question of marrying you to Madame Mayer.

Such a match would not meet with the Holy Father's approval, nor--if I may be permitted to mention my humble self in the same breath with our august sovereign--would it be wise in my own estimation." "Permit me to remark to your Eminence," answered Giovanni, proudly, "that in my house we have never been in the habit of asking advice upon such subjects.

Donna Tullia is a good Catholic.

There can therefore be no valid objection to my asking her hand, if my father and I agree that it is best." "You are terrible fellows, you Saracinesca," returned the Cardinal, blandly.

"I have read your family history with immense interest, and what you say is quite true.