“The engagement can easily be broken,” replied Hans, coldly.
“Do you intend to jest with me?”
“I never jest with any one to no purpose.”
“Then you are seriously thinking of overthrowing all my plans?”
“What use will your plans be to you, if Lichtenbach is ruined? Besides, you silly fellow, do you think Elias is a man likely to trouble himself with you, if you are no longer of any use to him? Already you have gone down several notches in his esteem. If an arrangement has to be made with you, we will offer you money. I know where to find it.”
The handsome Italian laid his hand on his heart.
“And what compensation will be large enough to satisfy me?”
“Ah, ah!” jeered Hans. “We are well aware that your conscience is as tender as it is delicate!”
Lichtenbach, who had remained silent, after hearing the suggestion concerning his daughter, now said—
“A Baradier marry a Lichtenbach! Is it possible? Never would the Graffs and Baradiers consent to such a thing! For my own part, I ought to protest with all my might against such a proposal.”