"Whoever says that Count Nobili will marry the Boccarini, is a liar!"
Prince Ruspoli spoke with perfect composure, still whirling his whip.
"I shall be happy to explain my reason anywhere, out of the city, on
the shortest notice."
Orazio started up. "Prince Ruspoli, do you call me a liar?"
"I beg your pardon," replied Ruspoli, quite unmoved, making Orazio a mock bow. "Did you say whom Count Nobili would marry? If you did, will you favor me by repeating it?"
"I only report town-talk," Franchi answered, sullenly. "I am not answerable for town-talk."
Ruspoli was a dead-shot; Orazio only fought with swords.
"Then I am satisfied," replied Ruspoli, quiet defiance in his look and tone. "I accuse you, Signore Orazio Franchi, of nothing. I only warn you."
"I don't see why we should quarrel about Nobili's marriage. He will be here himself presently, to explain which of the ladies he prefers," observed the peaceable Orsetti.
"I don't know which lady Count Nobili prefers," retorted Ruspoli, doggedly. "But I tell you the name of the lady he is to marry. It is Enrica Guinigi."
"Why, there is Count Nobili!" cried Baldassare, quite loud—"there, under the plane-trees."
"Bravo, Adonis!" cried Beppo; "your eyes are as sharp as your feet are swift."