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The little company now thought only of preparing for their

journey,-the Tramaglino family to their new country, and the

widow to Milan. Many tears were shed, many thanks given, and many

promises to meet again. The separation of Renzo and the friend

who had treated him so hospitably, was not less tender. Neither

did they part coldly from Don Abbondio: they had always preserved

a certain respect for their curate, and he, in his heart, had

always wished them well. It is these unfortunate affairs of the

world which perplex our affections. But who would believe that,

in this new abode, where Renzo had expected such happiness, he

should find only vexation! This was the result of trifles,

doubtless; but it requires so little to disturb a state of

happiness in this life!