It is now time for you to find some way of speaking to her, which you may easily do by means of those gipsies who haunt the streets of Bologna, crying ladies’ veils, purses and other articles for sale.  Send word by her that you are the lady’s most faithful, devoted servant, and that there is no one in the world you so much wish to please.  In short, let her urge your suit, and take care to bring the answer to me as soon as you have received it.  I will then tell you how you are to proceed.”

Departing in all haste, he soon found a little old pedlar woman, quite perfect in the trade, to whom he said he should take it as a particular favour if she would do one thing, for which he would reward her handsomely.  Upon this she declared her readiness to serve him in anything he pleased.  “For you know,” she added, “it is my business to get money in every way I can.”  Bucciolo gave her two florins, saying, ’I wish you to go for me to-day as far as the Via Maccarella, where resides a young lady of the name of Giovanna, for whom I have the very highest regard.  Pray tell her so, and recommend me to her most affectionately, so as to obtain for me her good graces by every means in your power.  I entreat you to have my interest at heart, and to say such pretty things as she cannot refuse to hear.”  “O leave that to me, sir,” said the little old woman, “I will not fail to say a good word for you at the proper time.”  “Delay not,” said Bucciolo, “but go now, and I will wait for you here;” and she set off at once, taking her basket of trinkets under her arm.  On approaching the place, she saw the lady before the door, enjoying the air and curtseying to her very low, “Do I happen to have anything here you would fancy?” she said, displaying her wares.  “Pray, take something, madam—­whatever pleases you best.”  Veils, stays, purses, and mirrors were now spread in the most tempting way before the lady’s eyes.  Out of all these things her attention seemed to be most attracted by a beautiful purse, which, she observed, if she could afford, she should like to purchase.  “Nay, madam,” exclaimed the crone, “do not think anything about the price—­take anything yo please, since they are all paid for already, I assure you.”  Surprised at hearing this, and perceiving the very respectful manner of the speaker, the lady rejoined, “Do you know what you are saying?  What do you mean by that?” The old woman, pretending now to be much affected, said, “Well, madam, if it must be so, I shall tell you.  It is very true that a young gentleman of the name of Bucciolo sent me hither; one who loves you better than all the world besides.  There is nothing he would not do to please you, and indeed he appears to very wretched because he cannot speak to you, and he is so very good, that it is quite a pity.  I think it will be the death of him, and then he is such a fine—­such an elegant—­young man, the more is the pity!” on hearing this, the lady, blushing deeply, turned sharply round upon