"I do not think that by the greatest stretch of indulgence he could be called good." "And why not ?" asked the younger man, sharply snatching at any possible discussion in order to conceal his embarrassment.
"Why not, indeed! Why, because he had a goodly share of original sin, to which he added others of his own originating but having an equal claim to originality." "I say I think he was a very good man," repeated Giovanni, maintaining his point with an air of conviction.
"If that is your conception of goodness, it is no wonder that you have not attained to sanctity," said the old man, with a sneer.
"It pleases you to be witty," answered his son.

"Astrardente did not gamble; he had no vices of late.

He was kind to his wife." "No vices--no.

He did not steal like a fraudulent bank-clerk, nor try to do murder like Del Ferice.

He did not deceive his wife, nor starve her to death.