“Merciful powers!” exclaimed Tantaine in tones of extreme disgust. “If these are all the ideas you have gained from what you have heard, our task will not be by any means an easy one.”
Paul was wounded by Tantaine’s contemptuous manner.
“I understand well enough, sir,” answered he sulkily, “that this is merely a prologue to a romantic drama.”
“You are right, my lad,” cried he, in a more satisfied voice; “and it is one that is quite indispensable. The plot of the drama will be revealed to you later on, and also the reward you will receive if you play your part well.”
“But why cannot you tell me everything now?”
Tantaine shook his head.
“Have patience, you rash boy!” said he. “Rome was not built in a day. Be guided by me, and follow blindly the orders of those interested in you. This is your first lesson; think it over seriously.”
“My first lesson! What do you mean?”
“Call it a rehearsal if you like. All that the good woman told you,” continued Tantaine, “you must look upon as true; nay, it is true, and when you believe this thoroughly, you are quite prepared for the fray, but until then you must remain quiescent. Remember this, you cannot impress others unless you firmly believe yourself. The greatest impostors of all ages have ever been their own dupes.”
At the word impostor, Paul seemed about to speak, but a wave of Tantaine’s hand silenced him.