“I dare say, but a certain amount of hypocrisy is necessary in this world of shams.”
Maurice looked at Count Constantine with an amused smile.
“Caliphronas, you are a most unique person, and I would like to know your views of life.”
“Make money honestly if you can—but make money.”
“I thought you were a child of Nature, who cared nothing for money.”
“You are right in one way, Mr. Maurice. For money as money I care nothing, but I like luxuries which only money can buy, and therefore desire money.”
“Epigrammatic, decidedly! but your free, open-air life—your love of mountains, waves, winds, skies?”
“Certainly I love all those things very much. Still, I go to Athens sometimes for amusement, and amusement requires money.”
“You are certainly candid.”
“I am; when I have nothing to gain, I am always candid.”