Julia. Thanks, dear Cornelia, for your kind greeting. May you and all your household have peace and joy.
Cornelia. And may those blessings be yours also, dear Julia. But tell me, what treasures have you in that charming casket?
Julia. A few poor jewels, fair friend. Bring me the casket, Nydia. These are some presents my parents and husband have given me.
Cornelia. I am so glad you have brought them to show me. You are very kind, for you know I greatly admire beautiful jewels.
Julia. See, here is a pearl necklace.
Cornelia. How lovely! Let me clasp it about your neck. It is very becoming. And what other gems have you?
Julia. Here is a girdle my mother gave me for a wedding present. Isn't it pretty?
Cornelia. Pretty! my dear, it is exquisite! Your mother showed much good taste when she chose this for you.
Julia. And here are some rings from the far East. See these emeralds and rubies; how they flash in the sunlight!
Cornelia. How well they look on your white hands! But I see something else.