"Cousin," he said, "we live in the world, so it is as well to understand the world.

If the risking of a few pieces at play, which it will not ruin us to lose, helps us to understand it, well, for my part I am ready to risk them, especially as it puts us on good terms with those who, as things are, it is wise we should cultivate.

Only, cousin, if I may venture to say it, be careful not to take more wine than you can carry with discretion.

Better lose a thousand florins than let drop one word that you cannot remember." "I know, I know," answered Dirk, thinking of Lysbeth's supper, and at the door of his lodgings they parted.
Like most Netherlanders, when Dirk made up his mind to do anything he did it thoroughly.

Thus, having undertaken to give a dinner party, he determined to give a good dinner.