But the lawyer had not much expectation that in the present case what he said would be listened to.

He spoke more for the discharge of his own conscience, and because the feelings he expressed were strong within him, than for any other reason.

And he fully expected that he should be answered with words of anger and uncompromising rejection of his interference.
It was not without considerable surprise, therefore, that he heard the Marchese's moderate answer to the strong opposition he had offered to his intention.

"Well, Signor Fortini, I cannot doubt that what you have said has been, at all events, dictated by a strong regard for my welfare, as you understand it.

I have, as I told you, made up my mind upon the subject.