“It is a pity that it did not.”
“How could it when it did not enter the head of such a Solomon as you?”
“And how do you know that?”
“You advised Ketling.”
“I? God is my witness, I advised no man. I said that he was inclined to her, and it was true; I said that he was a worthy cavalier, for that was and is true; but I leave match-making to women. My lady, as things are, half the Commonwealth is resting on my head. Have I even time to think of anything but public affairs? Often I have not a minute to put a spoonful of food in my mouth.”
“Advise us this time, for God’s mercy! All around I hear only this, that there is no head beyond yours.”
“People are talking of this head of mine without ceasing; they might rest awhile. As to counsels, there are two: either let Michael take Basia, or let Krysia change her intention; an intention is not a vow.”
Now Pan Makovetski came in; his wife told him everything straightway. The noble was greatly grieved, for he loved Pan Michael uncommonly and valued him; but for the time he could think out nothing.
“If Krysia will be obstinate,” said he, rubbing his forehead, “how can you use even arguments in such an affair?”
“Krysia will be obstinate!” said Pani Makovetski. “Krysia has always been that way.”