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Rh classes, not to mention notable representatives of the foreign embassies. General Petronovitch and his beautiful Russian wife, a princess in her own right, I believe, are to be present. I think Philip can tell you something of these Italian guests."

"I have no acquaintance with them," said Philip. "I once heard Lady Marchmount speak of them. Petronovitch was the Russian governor who, I believe, put down the rising against the Jews some years ago in Southern Russia. He also rendered some great services to the Czar in Central Asia. Should there be another great European war, it is understood that he will hold a prominent command. He has been decorated by the Czar, and is probably entitled to the distinction of 'Prince,' but he is simply known as General Petronovitch; very wealthy, very powerful, and fortunate in his marriage."

Philip went on talking in this strain, without taking any particular interest in what he was saying. Dolly sat looking out upon the lagoon.

"The Jews, by the way," said Walter, "hold quite an exceptional position in Venice. Next to the advocates in position come the physicians. Both are, as a rule, men of letters, and write for the newspapers, and many popular doctors are Hebrews. Howells mentions that even in the old jealous times, the Jews exercised the art of medicine, and took important rank. Oddly enough, the Venetian doctors pass most of their time sitting upon the benches in the pretty and well-furnished apothecary shops, where they discuss politics and art. Each physician has his own favorite apothecary, and has his name inscribed there on a brass plate against the wall, and, as a rule, if he is wanted, it is, as a rule, at the apothecary's that messengers seek him."

"You have read your 'Venetian Life' as carefully as I have," remarked Jenny, laughing.