Preciozi could not permit the mortal effects of the Tarpeian Rock to be doubted, and he said that its height had been lessened and the level of the soil had risen.
After these explanations Cæsar found the spot of Roman executions somewhat less fantastic.
“How would you like to go to that church in the Forum?” said Preciozi.
“I was going to propose that we should go to the hotel; it must be lunch-time.”
“Come along.”
THE CHURCH AND COOKING
Cæsar had Marsala and Asti brought for the abbe, who was a gourmet.
While Preciozi ate and drank with all his jaws, Cæsar devoted himself to teasing him. The waiter had brought some cream-puffs and informed them that that was a dish every one ate that day. Laura and Preciozi praised the puffs, and Cæsar said:
“What an admirable religion ours is! For each day the church has a saint and a special dish. The truth is that the Catholic Church is very wise; it has broken all relations with science, but it remains in harmony with cooking. As Preciozi was a moment ago saying with great exactitude, this close relation that exists between the Church and the kitchen is moving.”
“I said that to you?” asked Preciozi. “What a falsehood!”