“Alas!” said the Knight, “I see no hope. Whilst I am poor, the Baron will never relent.”
“Never!” chimed in Sir Agravaine.
“Is your poverty the only objection he has to you?” asked the Professor.
“Yes.”
“Well,” replied the Professor, “I can understand a father’s feelings in such a case. It seems hard upon a young man, but naturally he wants his daughter to be comfortable. Is there nothing you can turn your hand to to improve your fortunes?”
“We might rob somebody,” said Sir Agravaine, with a reflective air.
“Rob somebody!” exclaimed the Professor, “That is simply atrocious! Can’t you go to work; go into business, start a factory, speculate in stocks, or something of that kind?”
“Persons of my degree never work,” said Sir Bleoberis.
The Professor sighed, “Ah! I forgot. We must think of something else. Let me see; young man, I think I can help you a little, perhaps. You agree to accept some information from me and I believe I can make your fortune.”
“Do you propose,” asked Sir Agravaine, “to drug the Baron, or to enchant him so that he will change his mind? I have often tried love-philters with ladies whose hands I sought, but they always failed.”