The Heart of Clelia

"The Heart of Clelia" by Eleanor M. Ingram is a romantic drama set in the Italian medieval city of Belfiore. The narrative opens with a passionate encounter between Princess Clelia and Rufino, a street youth of noble parentage, who confronts her on a palace balcony, declaring his love born from watching her for months. He kisses her and escapes. Two years later, the Duke Guido arranges Clelia's marriage to Count Ferrand of Anjou. When Ferrand arrives, Clelia is startled by his resemblance to the youth from her past. Ferrand reveals he is indeed that same boy, now returned under an assumed identity. The Duke Guido, aware of the deception through intercepted letters and fugitives claiming to be the real Count Ferrand, confronts the impostor in his chamber, referencing a previous assassination attempt where a mysterious figure spared his life.