The Jewel Merchants

._) See, here is the turquoise bracelet I had from you the second time you passed. I wear it always--secretly.

GUIDO That is wise, for the turquoise is a talisman. They say that the woman who wears a turquoise is thereby assured of marrying the person whom she prefers.

GRACIOSA I do not know about that, nor do I expect to have much choice as to what rich nobleman marries me, but I know that I love this bracelet--

GUIDO In fact, they are handsome stones.

GRACIOSA Because it reminds me constantly of the hours which I have spent here with my lute--

GUIDO Oh, with your lute!

GRACIOSA And with your pack of lovely jewels--

GUIDO Yes, to be sure! with my jewels.

GRACIOSA And with you.

GUIDO There is again my gracious lady. Now, in reward for that, you shall feast your eyes.

GRACIOSA (_All eagerness._) And what have you to-day?

_GUIDO opens his pack. She bends above it with hands outstretched._

GUIDO (_Taking out a necklace._) For one thing, pearls, black pearls, set with a clasp o