whose frolics I contemplate by the hour. As for the cats, one has only
to look out of one's back window! Since I have begun to examine these
expressive little brutes, I have made many profound observations.
Speaking, signore, to a man of imagination, I may say that my little
designs are not without a philosophy of their own. Truly, I don't know
whether the cats and monkeys imitate us, or whether it's we who imitate
them." I congratulated him on his philosophy, and he resumed: "You will
do use the honour to admit that I have handled my subjects with delicacy.
Eh, it was needed, signore! I have been free, but not too free--eh? Just
a hint, you know! You may see as much or as little as you please. These
little groups, however, are no measure of my invention. If you will
favour me with a call at my studio, I think that you will admit that my
combinations are really infinite. I likewise execute figures to command.
You have perhaps some little motive--the fruit of your philosophy of
life, signore--which you would like to have interpreted. I can promise
to work it up to your satisfaction; it shall be as malicious as you
please! Allow me to present you with my card, and to remind you that my
prices are moderate. Only sixty francs for a little group like that. My
statuettes are as durable as bronze--_aere perennius_, signore--and,
between ourselves, I think they are more amusing!"

As I pocketed his card I glanced at Madonna Serafina, wondering whether
she had an eye for contrasts. She had picked up one of the little
couples and was tenderly dusting it with a feather broom.

What I had just seen and heard had so deepened my compassionate interest
in my deluded friend that I took a summary leave, making my way directly
to the house designated by this remarkable woman. It was in an obscure
corner of the opposite side of the town, and presented a sombre and
squalid appearance. An old woman in the doorway, on my inquiring for