“In the fine town of Naples, which, both on account of its situation and magnificent buildings, cannot be too much praised, there lived, some time since, a brave, far-famed, but already grey-headed warrior, named Signor Dimetri. After a life spent in toil and tumult, he wished to enjoy his old age in luxurious tranquillity, and therefore collected from different countries all possible rarities and treasures, his house being filled with the finest paintings, statues, and tapestry; nor was a cellar of the most costly wines neglected; but the rarest of all his possessions was a most beautiful young wife, descended from one of the most noble and wealthy families in Italy. With her, no doubt, he brought a good share of disquiet and anxiety into his palace; for, notwithstanding the modesty, the mild and correct demeanour of the Signora, yet the old hero was but too conscious of his grey hairs and want of personal attractions; so that he had but little respite from the jealous fantasies by which he was tormented. “If, in consequence of his marriage, he was thus disquieted, another inhabitant of Naples was yet more so. This was the handsome and accomplished Signor Donatello, a young nobleman universally admired in the Neapolitan circles, who had chanced to behold Signora Portia at early mass, (at which time alone she was allowed to go abroad), and whose whole thoughts, and even dreams, had, since that meeting, been engrossed by her graceful and enchanting figure. Thenceforward he endeavoured by every means in his power to draw her attention to himself, resolving, if he failed in this object, that he would die for her sake. He did not proceed, however, like those foolish young men, who send love-embassies by tattling messengers; who ride or walk up and down daily before their mistress’s windows, or send her costly presents; thus endangering her domestic peace by rousing the attention of a jealous husband. Such lovers have themselves to blame, if they lose all share in those affections which they are so anxious to gain; but Signor Donatello, on the contrary, behaved with the utmost prudence and foresight, taking care, no doubt, that Madonna Portia should notice his passion, which even a single look was sufficient to convey; but in such manner, that she might be convinced her security and peace were to him infinitely more dear than the gratification of his own wishes.