Notwithstanding she received so many flattering marks of distinction
from crowned heads, Rosalba's native modesty never deserted her, and she
seemed to esteem her works less than did many of her admirers, because
she was sensible how far she fell short of her idea of perfection.
"Everything I do," said she, "seems good enough to me just after I have
done it, and perhaps for a few hours afterwards, but then I begin to
discover my imperfections!" Thus it is with true merit; those who are
superficial or pretending can never find out, or never will acknowledge
their own faults.