sing for us. You are proved guilty of a conspiracy to defraud our good Venetians of their rights in refusing them the privilege of hearing you. You lie at our mercy. But we will remit all punishment other than a few days' imprisonment with us. Moreover, we have ordered a sum of money to be paid to you in testimony of our appreciation of your performance, and, in addition, allow you to ask any favor you will."
"Sire, I simply ask to be permitted to keep my word to my friends at Trieste, who are expecting me."
"You are a noble fellow, Tamburini, and your request is granted; only to-night we must have you in 'Lucia di Lammermoor;' and now come nearer."
The artist knelt at the monarch's feet.
"Receive at our hands this medal 'di nostro Salvatore' and learn how much we love to honor genius," and the Emperor flung a golden chain around his neck.
Tamburini was then presented to the Russian Emperor and received the compliments and congratulation of the nobility present. The next day the artist was sent on his way rejoicing, loaded with honors and tangible marks of royal esteem.
244.—ROTHSCHILD'S MUSIC.
The difference between artistic and financial self-respect is well illustrated in Spohr's meeting with Rothschild, the wealthy banker, in London. Spohr had called to present a letter of credit. Rothschild took it, and after glancing it over said, "I have just read that you manage your business very efficiently, but I understand nothing of music. This is my music (slapping his purse); they understand that on the Exchange." As Spohr was leaving, the banker called out, "You can come out and dine at my country house." It need hardly be added that Spohr did not accept this delicately tendered invitation.
