“Don’t you be afraid you will lose anything by it,” he said in a bitter tone; “you know I shall never lay claim to my father’s property, even though we were reconciled.”
“Must I then be suspected of cupidity, and by you indeed!” exclaimed Francis, in the greatest indignation.
“I should never accuse you of anything of the sort. On the contrary, I am only too sensible of your generosity. I only mentioned this to set you at ease about any consequences which might result from my reconciliation with my father. To the world I am Richard Smithson, American citizen; but let me have the pleasure of being for the few minutes I stay here Rudolf von Zwenken, who would speak to his old father once more, and take a last farewell of him. How can you oppose such a desire?”
“Your last farewells signify nothing; you always come back again.”
“But if, in spite of your opposition, I go at once and seek my father in the large drawing-room—I have not forgotten my way about the house—who shall hinder me?”
“Do as you like; only I warn you you will find Rolf, who knows you, with grandfather; and Rolf knows his orders, which he will carry out like an old soldier.”
“The devil take Rolf! What’s the old ruffian doing here?” spitefully exclaimed Rudolf.
“The old ruffian does all he can to cheer the declining years of your father, whom you have rendered unhappy by your conduct.”
“My misery would not be complete without your contumely,” sobbed Rudolf. “I came here so cheerful and well disposed.”
“Mr. Rudolf,” I said, “allow me to arrange an interview for you with the General, since Miss Mordaunt declines.”