wo _partiti_ for the younger sisters; but as for Volunnia, though I
have made immense researches, hitherto they have been without success.
In fact, she is too full of instruction—at least the men think so, and
they are afraid of her—and yet, with all her studies, she is consumed
by mortification at not being married. As for Oliverotto, what you see
him, that he is,—a _buon diavolo_—his only fault an unhappy propensity
for play. He has already eaten up part of poor Silvia's dowry, which
he managed to get into his hands. We have secured the rest now as well
as we can, and he has promised to reform. But what will you have? With
such a little stupid _bacchettona_ (that is, bigot) as that for his
wife, it is not surprising he should seek some distraction. Per Bacco!”
she exclaimed, as the midnight chimes were heard, “I had no idea it was
so late!” and lighting a small taper at my massive silver _lucerna_,
the marchesa at last retired, carrying with her the scaldino, and
saying she would desire one of the women-servants to come and take my
commands.




CHAPTER XVII.

   Comfortless bed-room—National fear of water—Waste of
     time—Occupations of the different members of the
     family—Volunnia's sitting-room—Her acquirements.


When the marchesa was gone, I proceeded to take a survey of my
apartment, which, had I not resolutely set aside all comparison with
England and English customs, would have been mentally noted down as
exceedingly uncomfortable. There was no fireplace or stove, no carpet
on the stone floor, no curtains to the bed, at the head of which was
placed a _bénitier_ for holy water, a palm that had been blessed at
Easter, and a little print of some saint. The rest of the furniture
consisted of an old-fashioned inlaid chest of drawers, surmounted
by a small looking-glass; four walnut-wood chairs, with cane seats;
and a washing-stand, or rather tripod, just holding the basin, and
beneath it a very small jug. But what redeemed the otherwise meagre
aspect of the room was the profusi