Alessandro Manzoni’s 1840 novel "The Betrothed" ("I Promessi Sposi") is set against the backdrop of a plague that struck the villages around Milan and then advanced into the city itself in 1630.

When the princess grew up she was betrothed to a prince who lived at a great distance.

The princess was betrothed to a prince who lived a great way off.

But if he have betrothed her to his son, he shall deal with her after the manner of daughters.