There is nothing in life to grieve for, save, indeed, Signor Zanoni, when some young beauty, on whom we have set our hearts, slips from our grasp.

In such a moment we have need of all our wisdom, not to succumb to despair, and shake hands with death.

What say you, signor?
You smile! Such never could be your lot.
Pledge me in a sentiment, 'Long life to the fortunate lover,--a quick release to the baffled suitor' ?" "I pledge you," said Zanoni; and, as the fatal wine was poured into his glass, he repeated, fixing his eyes on the prince, "I pledge you even in this wine!" He lifted the glass to his lips.

The prince seemed ghastly pale, while the gaze of his guest bent upon him, with an intent and stern brightness, beneath which the conscience-stricken host cowered and quailed.

Not till he had drained his draft, and replaced the glass upon the board, did Zanoni turn his eyes from the prince; and he then said, "Your wine has been kept too long; it has lost its virtues.