"I may tell you, that I never forget certain things, But I guess your meaning. You want me to subdue my liking for Irene. I am willing to do so, but she will be the loser."
This conversation had silenced Irene, but she soon took courage, and said she was like me.
"No, no," I answered, "if you were like me you would not be so pretty."
"I don't think so; I think you are very handsome."
"You flatter me."
"Stay to dinner with us."
"No, if I stayed I might fall in love with you, and that would be a pity, as your mother says I am your father."
"I was joking," said the countess, "you may love Irene with a good conscience."
"We will see what can be done."
When Irene had left the room, I said to the mother,—