Page:Life in the Old World - Vol. II.djvu/15

Rh a wooer. The young lady's connections have, in the mean time, been making their inquiries relative to his position, monetary affairs, &c., &c.; and, if the result be satisfactory, she is then informed of the intended match, in which her wishes have been very seldom consulted, but which has been arranged by the two families, and the young couple are betrothed without becoming more nearly acquainted with each other. Marriage and domestic happiness come afterwards. Yet, even in these respects, things are said to be better now than they used to be formerly, and the cicisbeism much less general.

We observed that this kind of market was being held on the terrace La Concordia, when there with Madame B——, a few days since. The promenade was much thronged. The marriageable daughters walked two and two before the parents, looking bashful, and a little conscious of the object for which they were there, and glanced neither to the right hand nor the left. The silk-dresses were splendid, and a few pezottos were worn with much grace. They are an incomparable ornament to young and beautiful figures. Formerly, this kind of vail was universal, even in the highest classes; but many ladies now wear bonnets. The gentlemen were very numerous, and gazed at the promenading ladies industriously. I wished them luck of a good bargain.

The shops of Genoa, especially the jeweller's, have still an old fashioned appearance, are small and dark, but appear to be well furnished, and to do much business. The peculiar pleasure of the people