He received me well, complimented me on my return to Turin, and then added with a smile:—
“I warn you that I have been informed that you keep a mistress, and that I have given strict orders to the respectable woman with whom she lives not to leave her alone with you.”
“I am glad to hear it,” I replied, “and the more as I fear her mother is not a person of very rigid morals. I advised the Chevalier Raiberti of my intentions with regard to her, and I am glad to see that he has carried them out so well. I hope the girl will shew herself worthy of your protection.”
“Do you think of staying here throughout the carnival?”
“Yes, if your excellency approves.”
“It depends entirely on your good conduct.”
“A few peccadilloes excepted, my conduct is always above reproach.”
“There are some peccadilloes we do not tolerate here. Have you seen the Chevalier Osorio?”
“I think of calling on him to-day or to-morrow.”
“I hope you will remember me to him.”