Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. II.djvu/144

154 part was performed with effective truth and Italian fervor, by the actor Salvini. This tragedy, otherwise so distressing to me, by this means acquired beauty, and afforded me enjoyment which it had never done before. Madame Carrala Brizzi, who acted Desdemona, has also great talent, but her masculine voice is not in character with this part. In the Othello of Salvini, jealousy shows itself as a species of mental disease, which incapacitates the rational thinking soul. His silent action was a masterpiece.

Saturday, Feb. 6th.—The first Carnival day! In the afternoon the balconies were clothed with brilliant carpets and cloth, and some also hung from all the windows along the Corso. Comfits and bouquets were carried along the streets. At three o'clock in the afternoon the festival began. The Corso was filled with people and gens-d'armes; military, mounted and on foot, were posted at the corners of all the streets, as well as in the square. Crowds of ragged lads were loitering about the Corso, shouting as they followed any laughably-attired mask. Windows and balconies were filling with gentlemen and ladies in dominoes; some in costume. One saw many lovely faces. Jenny and I have been invited for the whole of the Carnival to the balcony of our amiable acquaintances in Rome, Mr. and Mrs. Grant. It is in San Carlo Square on the Corso, and from it one has an excellent view on every side of the Carnival-fun. We stand in dominoes, with some other people, amongst whom is the charming Duchess of St. Albans, with a young son and daughter, as handsome as the