As I was copying it, the idea struck me to personify Silesia, and to make her, in answer to the sonnet, bewail that Love (supposed to be the author of the sonnet of the marchioness) could applaud the man who had conquered her, when that conqueror was the sworn enemy of Love.
It is impossible for a man accustomed to write poetry to abstain when a happy subject smiles upon his delighted imagination.

If he attempted to smother the poetical flame running through his veins it would consume him.

I composed my sonnet, keeping the same rhymes as in the original, and, well pleased with my muse, I went to bed.
The next morning the Abbe Gama came in just as I had finished recopying my sonnet, and said he would breakfast with me.

He complimented me upon the honour conferred on me by the invitation of Cardinal S.C.
"But be prudent," he added, "for his eminence has the reputation of being jealous:" I thanked him for his friendly advice, taking care to assure him that I had nothing to fear, because I did not feel the slightest inclination for the handsome marchioness.
Cardinal S.C.received me with great kindness mingled with dignity, to make me realize the importance of the favour he was bestowing upon me.
"What do you think," he enquired, "of the sonnet ?" "Monsignor, it is perfectly written, and, what is more, it is a charming composition.

Allow me to return it to you with my thanks." "She has much talent.