"He possesses neither wealth nor rank, unfortunately," responded the baron, with a sigh, "but there doesn't seem to be the slightest doubt that he is an exceedingly honest and worthy young man."
"And what you have heard about him is nothing in comparison with what you will soon discover for yourself."
"What! is there still another mystery in store for me, my dear marquis?"
"Have a little patience, and an hour from now you will know all. By the way, I hope you haven't said a word to your wife or sister in regard to our plans?"
"How can you ask me such a question, my dear marquis? Am I not longing to have my revenge upon Helena and the baroness? Think of their deceiving me as they did! Each of them plotting to bring about a marriage between my ward and one of their protégés, and making me play the most ridiculous rôle. Ah, it will at least be some consolation to outwit them in my turn."
"No weakness, though, baron. Your wife openly boasts that she can make you do exactly as she pleases,—that she leads you around by the nose, in short,—excuse the expression."
"Well, well, we shall see! So she leads me around by the nose, does she?"
"I think we shall have to admit that she has, in days gone by."
"I admit nothing of the kind."
"But now you are a statesman, any such weakness would be unpardonable, for you no longer belong to yourself, and, apropos of this, did you see our delegates again?"