What a pretty fool he had made of himself.

He had purchased the love of his wife for 40,000 florins.

He could not demand back the bill from her, nor could he explain to her the compromising origin of that document.

And in addition to that, he must play the part of dignified pater familias which his wife had assigned to him in this domestic drama, instead of that of first lover which was so much more to his liking.
"All right, Henrietta," said he, assuming a calmness he was far from feeling.

"If you like to give me the bill, I'll see that it is posted to your lawyer at Pest, Mr.Sipos." Henrietta thanked him sincerely, but said she would rather take it to Pest herself in order that she might have a long confidential talk with Mr.Sipos personally about her poor brother.
"Then wait, Henrietta, till the Arad races are over.