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towards him, that I anor Turchi!" exclaihtened by the

accusation "Dear father, do not indulge such a thought"

"He is a handsoentle been an intinor

Geroniently: "Geroni to a woman's eye; but his future depends upon his uncle's

kindness He is young and inexperienced, and he possesses nothing hihly esteemed in the

world as partner and administrator of the well-known house of Buonvisi

Think better of your choice, Mary; satisfy my desires and your brothers':

it is not yet too late"

Tears filled the eyes of the young girl; she replied, however, with a

sweet resignation: "Father, I am your submissive child Command, and I

will obey without a murmur, and humbly kiss the venerated hand which

imposes the painful sacrifice But Geronimo! poor Geronimo!"

At these words her fortitude forsook her; she covered her face with her

hands, and wept bitterly; her tears fell like bright pearls upon the

marble floor