Doctor.—I am listening to you, sir.
Jan.—Let us speak frankly. Mamma wishes me to become a member of parliament, but I do not care for it.
Doctor.—You are too modest, sir.
Jan.—You are sneering, and I do not know how to defend myself. But I am frank with you—I would not care a bit about being elected to parliament if it were not for my mamma. When mamma wishes for something it must be accomplished. All women of the family of Srokoszynski are that way, and mamma is of that family.
Doctor.—But, count, you have a will of your own.
Jan.—That is the trouble—the Miliszewskis are all ruled by the women. It is our family characteristic, sir.
Doctor.—A knightly characteristic indeed! But what can I do for you?
Jan.—I am not going to oppose you.
Doctor.—I must be as frank with you as you are with me. Until now you have helped me.
Jan.—I don't know how, but if it is so, then you must help me in your turn.