I am one of those who will go on doing till all doings are at an end.

I cannot write poetically, for I am no poet. I cannot make fine artistic phrases that cast light and shadow, for I am no painter. I can neither by signs nor by pantomime express my thoughts and feelings, for I am no dancer; but I can by tones, for I am a musician.

If I were obliged to marry all those with whom I have jested, I should have at least two hundred wives.

My father is maestro at the Metropolitan church, which gives me an opportunity to write for the church as much as I please.

My sole recreations consist in dancing English hornpipes and cutting capers. Italy is a land of sleep; I am always drowsy here.