that Mademoiselle Ginevra di Piombo--attains this very day--the age at
which the law allows a respectful summons before proceeding to the
celebration of a marriage--in spite of the non-consent of the parents.
Now--it is usual in families--who enjoy a certain consideration--who
belong to society--who preserve some dignity--to whom, in short, it is
desirable not to let the public into the secret of their differences
--and who, moreover, do not wish to injure themselves by blasting with
reprobation the future of a young couple (for--that is injuring
themselves), it is usual, I say--among these honorable families--not
to allow these summonses--to take place--or remain--a monument to
--divisions which should end--by ceasing--Whenever, monsieur, a young
lady has recourse to respectful summons, she exhibits a determination
too marked to allow of a father--of a mother," here he turned to the
baroness, "hoping or expecting that she will follow their wishes
--Paternal resistance being null--by reason of this fact--in the first
place--and also from its being nullified by law, it is customary--for
every sensible man--after making a final remonstrance to his child
--and before she proceeds to the respectful summons--to leave her at
liberty to--"

Monsieur Roguin stopped, perceiving that he might talk on for two
hours without obtaining any answer; he felt, moreover, a singular
emotion at the aspect of the man he was attempting to convert. An
extraordinary revolution had taken place on Piombo's face; his
wrinkles, contracting into narrow lines, gave him a look of
indescribable cruelty, and he cast upon the notary the glance of a
tiger. The baroness was mute and passive. Ginevra, calm and resolute,
waited silently; she knew that the notary's voice was more potent than
hers, and she seemed to have decided to say nothing. At the moment
when Roguin ceased speaking, the scene had become so terrifying that