FIRST PART
Chapter I
Of Catherine's Parents And Their Worldly Condition
There lived in the city of Sienna, in Tuscany, a man named Jacomo, who was descended from the family of the Benencasa, a man simple, loyal, fearing God, and separated from every vice. After losing his parents he married a countrywoman called Lapa. This woman had none of the defects so common at the present day; she was industrious, prudent, well-versed in domestic affairs, and as she still lives, those who are acquainted with her may still render her this precious testimony. The good couple dwelt peaceably together, and although of the humbler class, they possessed a certain position among their fellow-citizens, and besides enjoyed a considerable fortune for their rank. God blessed them with a numerous offspring which they reared in the ways of eminent virtue.
As Jacomo has, as we have every reason to believe, gone to the abodes of the blest, I can with propriety make his eulogium here. Lapa has assured me that he was so mild and moderate in his words that he never gave way to anger, notwithstanding the numerous occasions which might have led him to do so; and whenever he saw any member of his household becoming vexed and speaking with violence, he would try to calm the person,
