The Duke's Prize; a Story of Art and Heart in Florence by Maturin Murray Ballou
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page 14 of 249 (05%)
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other still more dearly, if possible."
"Pray, what is that, Carlton?" "We are both orphans, Florinda; both stand, as it were, alone in the world, without any natural protectors even from childhood." "True," said Florinda, "my parents died while I was yet too young to know or love them and thine, Carlton?" "While I was an infant." "How pleasant it must be to have parents to love and advise one. I have often envied my companions." "Ay, it must indeed be a source of happiness; and none would seem to deserve them more than so gentle a spirit as thine." "It is indeed an enviable blessing." "Father and mother are sweet words," said the artist, thoughtfully,--and drawing her gently to his side. "They are sweet words," said Florinda; while a sympathetic tear trembled for a moment beneath those long eyelashes, proving the poet's words, "that beauty's tears are lovelier than her smiles." Carlton saw and marked the truant jewel as it glided down her fair cheek. And thus they talked on of love, of griefs and hopes, Carlton |
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