"Yes, it is a plot. First there's William turns as contrary as a rusty lock, then they set Miss Trap on to me, and now it's you!"
"Well—I came to tell you that the two young people love each other. Be good to them, Holm, and you will make your son and my daughter happy together."
"And by doing so I become a sort of relation of—of Banker Hermansen?"
"Well, is there anything wrong in that?"
"Hermansen and I as a sort of—well, what should we be? Can't be each other's half-uncles—twins-in-law. Bless my soul, it's really almost comical!"
"It's a serious matter to me, Holm. My child's future...." There were tears in her eyes as she spoke.
"My dear lady, for Heaven's sake don't let's turn serious. I simply can't stand that sort of wedding-day solemnity, weeping on one another's necks as if it were a funeral. It simply comes to this: I've been had. Well, the only thing to do is to put the best face on it one can."
She held out her hand. "Thanks, Holm. Thanks. I can assure you I shall never forget all your kindness. You are a good man, Holm."
"Thanks for the unsolicited testimonial. Well, I dare say I might be worse. And when it comes to getting out one's final balance-sheet, it's as well to have a little on the credit side here and there."
He walked across to the window and stood for some time without speaking.