as the Colosseum, and yet to find nothing better to talk about than the dead! All I can say is, if ever I should get such a chance, the living should be my theme.”
“And you will probably find your theme ill-chosen.”
“But,” said Albert, breaking in upon his discourse, “never mind the past; let us only remember the present. Are you not going to keep your promise of introducing me to the fair subject of our remarks?”
“Certainly, directly the curtain falls on the stage.”
“What a confounded long time this first act lasts. I believe, on my soul, that they never mean to finish it.”
“Oh, yes, they will; only listen to that charming finale. How exquisitely Coselli sings his part.”
“But what an awkward, inelegant fellow he is.”
“Well, then, what do you say to La Specchia? Did you