Page:Francesca Carrara 3.pdf/208

Rh secondly, falsehood. I know I am very charming, but nothing in this world lasts—not even my fascination. In a little while, my dark eyes, my pretty hands, and my white teeth, will become too well known for admiration. We actually do not see what we see often. After a time, he will have heard everything witty I have to say: a repeated epigram is like a broken needle, and has no second point. We shall have exhausted the absurdities of our friends—I shall no longer talk with animation—he will no longer listen with delight—both will feel the necessity of change—and my only object will be to change the first. As to friends, so long as we have mutual interests, our friendship is made for eternity; but let them come in contact, and we have nothing left but wonder how it ever existed."

"I thank you for the name of friend, which you bestow upon me," said Francesca.

"Why, my addressing these remarks to you is the greatest possible compliment. You are in duty bound to suppose they do not include you. The stronger the rule, the more flattering the exception; and the truth is, Francesca, I do indeed make you an exception. I think better of you than I do of myself—and that, too, without hating you. My liking for you is grounded on divers reasons—