o not believe that there is one equal to it to be found in
Italy. This work, which follows the curve of the recess, is of the
Corinthian Order, with composite capitals and double columns in full
relief, and pilasters behind. In like manner, the frontispiece which
surmounts the whole also curves in very masterly fashion according to
the shape of the recess, and has all the ornaments which that Order
embraces. Wherefore Monsignor Barbaro, Patriarch-elect of Aquileia, a
man with a great knowledge of the profession, who has written of it,
on his return from the Council of Trent saw not without marvel all
that had been done in that work, and that which was being done every
day; and, after considering it several times, he had to say that he
had never seen the like, and that nothing better could be done. And
let this suffice as a proof of what may be expected from the genius of
Bernardino, who was born on the mother's side from the San Michele
family.

But let us return to Michele, from whom we digressed, not without
reason, some little time back. He was struck by such grief at the
death of Gian Girolamo, in whom he saw the house of San Michele become
extinct, since his kinsman left no children, that, although he strove
to conquer or conceal it, in a few days he was overcome by a malignant
fever, to the inconsolable sorrow of his country and of his most
illustrious patrons. Michele died in the year 1559, and was buried in
S. Tommaso, a church of Carmelite Friars, where there is the ancient
burial-place of his forefathers; and at the present day Messer Niccolo
San Michele, a physician, has set his hand to erecting him an
honourable tomb, which is even now being carried into execution.

Michele was a man of most upright life, and most honourable in his
every action. He was a cheerful person, yet with an admixture of
seriousness. He feared God, and was very religious, insomuch that he
would never set himself to do anything in the morning without having
first heard Mass devoutly and said his prayers; and at the beginning
of any undertaking of importance, in the morning, before doing any
other thing, he would always have the Mass of the Holy Spirit or of
the Madonna solemnly chanted. He was very liberal, and so courteous
with his friends, that they were as much masters of his possessions as
he was himself. And I will not withhold a proof of his great loyalty
and goodness, which I believe few others know besides myself. When
Giorg