"You have read good descriptions of battles, I see."
Mrs. Riccabocca, who thought this remark a taunt upon her step-daughter's studies, hastened to Violante's relief.
"Her papa made her read the history of Italy, and I believe that is full of battles."
HARLEY.—"All history is, and all women are fond of war and of warriors.
I wonder why?"
VIOLANTE (turning to Helen, and in a very low voice, resolved that Harley should not hear this time).—" We can guess why,—can we not?"
HARLEY (hearing every word, as if it had been spoken in St. Paul's
Whispering Gallery).—"If you can guess, Helen, pray tell me."
HELEN (shaking her pretty head, and answering with a livelier smile than usual).—"But I am not fond of war and warriors."
HARLEY (to Violante).—"Then I must appeal at once to you, self-convicted Bellona that you are. Is it from the cruelty natural to the female disposition?"
VIOLANTE (with a sweet musical laugh). "From two propensities still more natural to it."
HARLEY.—"YOU puzzle me: what can they be?"