May 1708
VeniceI hadn't seen Antonio for some months but knew that his success had resulted in more trips abroad. He performed in the various towns in Veneto but also in other places such as Roma and as far away as Milano. I assumed that he had multiple reasons for doing so. Certainly, the money was good and as he enjoyed the fine life he became even more interested in establishing his career. However, I also had heard that he was looking for a wealthy sponsor, someone whose position could be enjoyed by Antonio and who could give him access to the houses of royalty throughout Europe.
Such endless trips made in a drafty carriage across bumpy and over sometimes flooded roads was exactly the kind of effort shunned by my father.
“Those who have established themselves,” he always said, “shou
