But
to tell the truth, Elena Muti did not trouble herself overmuch about
what society said of her covering her every audacity with the mantle of
her beauty, her wealth, and her ancient name; and she went on her way
serenely, surrounded by adulation and homage, by reason of a certain
good-natured tolerance which is one of the most pleasing qualities of
Roman society, amounting almost to an article of faith.
In any case, Andrea's connection with the Duchess of Scerni had
instantly raised him enormously in the estimation of the women. An
atmosphere of favour surrounded him and his successes became
astonishing. Moreover, he owed something to his reputation as a
mysterious artist, and two sonnets which he wrote in the Princess di
Ferentino's album became famous, in which, as in an ambiguous diptych,
he lauded in turn a diabolical and an angelic mouth--the one that
destroys souls and the other that sings 'Ave!'
He responded, without a moment's hesitation, to every advance. No longer
restrained by Elena's complete dominion over him, his energies returned
to their original state of disorder. He passed from one liaison to
another with incredible frivolity, carrying on several at the same time,
and weaving without scruple a great net of deceptions and lies, in which
to catch as much prey as possible. The habit of duplicity undermined his
conscience, but one instinct remained alive, implacably alive in
him--the repugnance at all this which attracted without holding him
captive.
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