Before Ascanio had time to offer any observation, Benvenuto, with a parting glance over the studio to see if every workman was in his place, and a light tap upon Scozzone's plump, rosy cheek, passed his arm through his pupil's, drew him toward the door, and went out with him.
VI
TO WHAT USE A DUENNA MAY BE PUT
They had taken hardly ten steps in the street, when they met a man of some fifty years, rather short of stature, but with a handsome, mobile countenance.
"I was about to call upon you, Benvenuto," said the new arrival, whom Ascanio saluted with respect, mingled with veneration, and whose hand Benvenuto cordially grasped.
"Is your business of importance, my dear Francesco?" said the goldsmith. "In that case, I will return with you; or was it for no other purpose than a friendly call? In that case, come with us."
"It was to proffer you some friendly advice, Benvenuto."
"I will gladly listen. Advice is always a good thing to receive when it is proffered by a friend."
"But that which I have to give you is for no other ear than yours."
"This youth is another myself, Francesco; say on."