They spoke of the fair and coquettish Countess Rosali, still a reigning belle, and said how warmly she would welcome them for their father's sake.
"You talk so much of Italy," said Valentine to Beatrice.

"It is just the land for the romance you love.

You shall see blue skies and sunny seas, vines, and myrtles, and orange trees in bloom; you shall see such luxuriance and beauty that you will never wish to return to this cold, dreary England." It was thus arranged that, when Lord Earle returned, the visit should be paid.

The evening after their guests' departure seemed long and triste.
"I will write to mamma," said Beatrice; "it is strange she never told us anything of her friend.

I must tell her all about the visit." Not daring to ask the girls to keep any secret from Dora, Lady Earle was obliged to let the letter go.