What a joy it is To see your face, to hear your voice again! You bring with you a breath as of the morn, A memory of the far-off happy days When we were young.

When did you come from Fondi?
JULIA.
I have not been at Fondi since-- VITTORIA.
Ah me! You need not speak the word; I understand you.
JULIA.
I came from Naples by the lovely valley The Terra di Lavoro.
VITTORIA.
And you find me But just returned from a long journey northward.
I have been staying with that noble woman Renee of France, the Duchess of Ferrara.
JULIA.
Oh, tell me of the Duchess.

I have heard Flaminio speak her praises with such warmth That I am eager to hear more of her And of her brilliant court.
VITTORIA.
You shall hear all But first sit down and listen patiently While I confess myself.
JULIA.
What deadly sin Have you committed?
VITTORIA.
Not a sin; a folly I chid you once at Ischia, when you told me That brave Fra Bastian was to paint your portrait.
JULIA Well I remember it.
VITTORIA.
Then chide me now, For I confess to something still more strange.
Old as I am, I have at last consented To the entreaties and the supplications Of Michael Angelo-- JULIA To marry him?
VITTORIA.
I pray you, do not jest with me! You now, Or you should know, that never such a thought Entered my breast.

I am already married.
The Marquis of Pescara is my husband, And death has not divorced us.
JULIA.
Pardon me.
Have I offended you?
VITTORIA.
No, but have hurt me.
Unto my buried lord I give myself, Unto my friend the shadow of myself, My portrait.

It is not from vanity, But for the love I bear him.
JULIA.
I rejoice To hear these words.