sts,
regretting that it was not in their power to prove their gratitude by
something more than words.

_Rome, December 24th._--We then called on Baron de Binder, the Attache
to the Austrian Embassy. Sir Moses intimated his desire to be
introduced to the Austrian Ambassador, in order to thank him for the
lively interest he had taken in favour of the Jews of Damascus.

The Baron said he should be happy to introduce him, but as the
following day was Christmas day, and the New Year holidays were so
near, he feared some few days must elapse before he would be able to
get an appointment.

Sir Moses informed the Baron of his earnest desire to be presented to
the Pope, to express his gratitude to him for not having permitted the
public press of Rome to insert the charges made against the Jews at
Rhodes and Damascus, also to present His Holiness with a copy of the
firman granted by the Sultan, and to intimate the great act of
kindness it would be on his part to advise the removal of the
inscription from the stone in the convent at Damascus, over some bones
said to be those of Father Tommaso. The Sultan would doubtless, if
applied to, order the removal of the stone, as soon as his Governor
was in the city; but Sir Moses, well knowing His Holiness' love of
truth and peace, felt confident that, if made known to him, he would
not permit such a libel to remain.

_December 25th._--Sir Moses and Lady Montefiore, while visiting one of
the public institutions, met the Princess Augusta of Cambridge, who
spoke to them most kindly. Prince A. Torlonia sent them the key of his
box at the opera. They availed themselves of this kindness in company
with several friends. "Being the first representation of the season,"
writes Sir Moses, "the house was filled to overflowing in every part.
The Queen of Spain, the Duchess of Cambridge and her daughter were
present, as well as every person of note in Rome. It is customary for
the Governor of the city, on the first night of the season, to offer
to the audience in the second and third tiers of boxes, ices, cakes,
&c., twice during the evening, between the acts. Simultaneously, as if
by magic, two waiters entered into each of the sixty-two boxes, one
bearing wax candles in silver candlesticks and the other trays with
the choicest refreshments. We had one of the best and largest boxes in
the house, and remained till nearly twelve."

The following day Sir Moses and Lady Montefiore received a beautifu