"True, Carlton."

"My means are so humble."

"You would make them so."

"But are they not, Florinda?"

"Not in my eyes."

"The future looks dark to me."

"The great proficiency you have attained in your profession, as an
artist, dear Carlton, argues well for our hopes. Already has thy
name reached the Grand Duke as one of remarkable ability in thy
noble art; and such constant attention and unwearied industry must
ensure improvement."

"True, dearest, I may in time hope to be counted, a worthy follower
of those whose noble efforts grace the grand gallery, and the halls
of the Palazzo Pitti; but alas, many years of toil might not place
me in the pecuniary eye of the duke, as a fitting suitor for thy
peerless portion. And then, Florinda, the pride of birth! Alas! I
have little hopes of ever attaining my most earnest wish-that which
would render me the envy of all Florence-thy hand, Florinda."

"Have I not possessions enough for both of us, dear Carlton? Indeed,
I am told that my rightful property bears a goodly proportion to
that of the Grand Duke himself, who has the reputation here in