What do you say to it ?" "As far as I am concerned, let him come by all means, if you wish it, father; it can make no difference to me." "Indeed it will, though! You will have to show him about the neighbourhood, and lay yourself out to make his stay here as pleasant as possible, for he will pay well." "Pay!" said Cardo, with a frown, his sense of hospitality chafing under the idea.

"Pay! that spoils it all.

If you take my advice in the matter, you will write to your friend, and tell him to send his son here by all means, but decline to take any remuneration." "Cardo, you are a fool! Do you think I would take a stranger into my house, to have him always at my table, upsetting all my domestic arrangements, for nothing?
You ought to know me better.

Fortunately for you, with your pride and extravagant ideas, I am here to look after affairs, and hitherto, thank God, I have been quite capable of doing so! I only consulted you on the matter because I wanted to know what chance there was of your making yourself agreeable to the young man, as I cannot be bothered with him." "Oh, well, that is settled," said Cardo.

"I shall be glad of a companion, and will do my best to make him happy.