LE COMTE: "Although you both write and understand German very well, you do not like to read it, and therefore I write to you in French.

It grieves me deeply not to have it in my power to satisfy your honoured demand.
Business is very dull.

It is impossible for me to advance you another florin, or even to renew your note, which falls due shortly.

I am the father of a family; it pains me to be compelled to remind you of this.
"I wish to tell you quite freely what I think.

I did believe in your gun, but I believe in it no longer, no one believes in it any more.