Before the Opera – The Darcys in Venice Chapter 26

Opera Dresses, 1796

Lord Byron sent over a note to say that he had ordered tickets for the opera at Teatro la Fenice for the whole party. Contessa Guiccioli had already arrived and was in residence, and they would travel in the two gondolas, Byron’s own and Mr. Darcy’s.

“I long to see her,” enthused Lydia as they were dressing, “That maid Elise told me she is the most beautiful creature in the world.”

“I am surprised you are at all eager to see a woman you must perceive as a rival,” commented El...