He is writing to Tom Moore on November 17, 1816: "It is my intention to remain at Venice during the winter, probably, as it has always been (next to the East) the greenest island of my imagination.

It has not disappointed me; though its evident decay would, perhaps, have that effect upon others.

But I have been familiar with ruins too long to dislike desolation.

Besides, I have fallen in love, which, next to falling into the canal (which would be of no use, as I can swim), is the best or the worst thing I could do.

I have got some extremely good apartments in the house of a 'Merchant of Venice,' who is a good deal occupied with business, and has a wife in her twenty-second year.
Marianna (that is her name) is in her appearance altogether like an antelope.