In the center of the room stood a large table, near the window an upholstered armchair, and toward one side of the table a divan covered with rich tapestry. In front of the table there was a chair with a high back, covered with pressed leather.
A second room was his bedroom. It had a wide bed, a wardrobe filled with cassocks and linen, a wash stand with a large mirror, many brushes and combs and gaily colored perfume bottles. And on the walls of the third room, which was uninviting and empty, were two closed cupboards, one for wine and food and the other for china, pastry, preserves and sweets.
Having finished this inspection, he led me to his library and said:
"Take a seat. So, this is the way I live. Not like a monk, eh?"
"No," I answered; "not quite according to rule."
"Well, you condemn every one. I suppose you will condemn me soon, too."
He smiled, haughty as a bell tower.
I loved him for his beautiful face, but his smile was disagreeable to me.
"I do not know whether I will condemn you," I said. "I certainly would like to understand you."
He laughed low, in a base, which was offensive to me.