A postponement
of the reception by the elector of Bavaria went near to defeat us; but
we bribed the groom of the chambers, as thou mayest remember, and got
into the presence as it were by accident."
"Was that held to be sufficient?"
"That was it--for our terms mentioned the condition of holding discourse
with ten sovereigns in as many weeks, in their own palaces. Oh! it was
fairly won, and I believe I may say that it was as gaily expended!"
"For the latter will I vouch, since I never quitted thee while a piece
of it all remained. There are divers means of dispensing gold in those
northern capitals, and the task was quickly accomplished. They are
pleasant countries for a few years of youth and idleness!"
"It is a pity that their climates are so rude."
A slight and general shudder expressed their Italian sympathy, but the
discourse did not the less proceed.
"They might have a better sun and a clearer sky, but there is excellent
cheer, and no want of hospitality," observed the Signor Gradenigo, who
maintained his full share of the dialogue, though we have not found it
necessary to separate sentiments that were so common among the different
speakers. "I have seen pleasant hours even with the Genoese, though
their town hath a cast of reflection and sobriety that is not always
suited to the dispositions of youth."
"Nay, Stockholm and Copenhagen have their pleasures too, I do assure
thee.
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