The romantic character of the place delighted me; i was very much amused by the air of adventure and intrigue that prevailed in this region of masks and gondolas; and i was exceedingly smitten by a pair of languishing black eyes, that played upon my heart from under an italian mantle. so i persuaded myself that i was lingering at venice to study men and manners. at least i persuaded my friends so, and that answered all my purpose. what statement best describes the narrator in this excerpt? the narrator is satisfied with his studies in venice. the narrator is not entirely truthful about his reasons for staying in venice. the narrator has established lasting friendships during his stay in venice. the narrator is unfamiliar with the italian culture in venice.