f the laurel-crowned bust, in the order of
the pitch of their instruments, the violins and flutes being in the
middle, while the bass viol was at the extreme left, and the bass
cornopean on the right. Next came a small chorus of eight singers, who
took their places, standing behind the seated musicians; and last of
all, amidst much clapping of hands, Stradella himself appeared in front,
and bowed low to the Queen, standing a little on one side so as not to
hide the bust from the audience.

He looked very handsome as he stood there, dressed in black velvet and
black silk, with a low collar of soft linen that showed his strong white
throat, and having his lawn wristbands turned back over the cuffs of his
coat.

As he bowed Queen Christina smiled graciously, and waved her hand to him
in greeting, whereupon the applause became still louder.

Don Alberto had found a seat for Ortensia, and stood beside her, as the
other cavaliers stood each beside the lady of his choice. Altieri
thought it good policy to pose himself as Ortensia's official adorer
from the first, at such a very select gathering of Roman society; for
few would care to try their chances against him after that. Ortensia
herself was dimly conscious that if she could keep him in his place, as
she had done to-day, his admiration would protect her against other
would-be worshippers.

While the music lasted she never took her eyes from Stradella, whether
he was turned from the audience towards his musicians to direct them,
beating time in the air with a thin roll of ruled music-paper, or when
he faced the audience and sung himself, to the accompaniment of only
four stringed instruments.

'Admirable!' whispered Alberto, bending low to Ortensia's ear. 'It is
supreme genius, nothing less!' he whispered again, as she took no
notice.

But Ortensia did not even hear him, and sat quite still in her chair,
gazing with fixed eyes at the man she loved, and listening to his music
as in the entrancement of a spell. Don Alberto looked down thoughtfully
at her beautiful motionless head, though his ears were open too, for he
loved music; but just then he was even more in love with the beautiful
Venetian, and though he had been worsted in his first attempt, he was by
no means ready to give up the siege. He was wondering what treasure
could be found in all Rome that could induce Ortensia to take her eyes
from her husband while he was singing or conducting his own music.

But