‘What hast there, young maiden?’ said Ser Francesco.
‘A fish, Riverenza!’ answered she. ‘In Tuscany we call it tinca.’
Petrarca. I too am a little of a Tuscan.
Assunta. Indeed! well, you really speak very like one, but only more sweetly and slowly. I wonder how you can keep up with Signor Padrone—he talks fast when he is in health; and you have made him so. Why did not you come before? Your Reverence has surely been at Certaldo in time past.
Petrarca. Yes, before thou wert born.
Assunta. Ah, sir! it must have been long ago then.
Petrarca. Thou hast just entered upon life.
Assunta. I am no child.
Petrarca. What then art thou?
Assunta. I know not: I have lost both father and mother; there is a name for such as I am.