And with one accord they complained of the defects of the building, painting it in the blackest colours, and proposing improvements to make it comfortable.
The Duke listened with smiling indifference and the half-ironical attention we give to a coaxing child.
"Very well, very well; we will have it all seen to. But you will allow me to set the business on its feet first—eh, Regnault?"
The superintendent bowed with an insinuating smile.
"And the men must work shorter hours," said the Condesa de Cebal.
"And they really must be better paid," added Lola.
"And they ought to have cottages built for them at Villalegre," said another.
"Ha, ha, ha," shouted the Duke, with a burst of coarse laughter. "And why not bring Gayarre and Tosti here to entertain them in the evening? They must be dreadfully dull here, I should think, in the evenings!"
The ladies smiled timidly.
"But really, Duke, you should not make fun of it; it is a serious matter," said the Condesa de Cebal.