XXXV

Elvire, do you recall when, years ago, our home

The intimation reached, a certain pride of Rome,

Authenticated piece, in the third, last and best

Manner—whatever, fools and connoisseurs contest,—

No particle disturbed by rude restorer's touch,

The palaced picture-pearl, so long eluding clutch

Of creditor, at last, the Rafael might—could we

But come to terms—change lord, pass from the Prince to me?

I think you recollect my fever of a year: