"No, I do not like to go there."
At this, Ladislaus, who by nature was impetuous and bold, frowned, and looking Swidwicki in the eyes, replied:
"I do not ask the reason, for that does not interest me, but I give you warning that they are my relatives."
"Whose cause a young knight would have to champion," answered Swidwicki, gazing at Ladislaus. "Ah, no! If I had any intention of saying anything against the ladies I would not say it, as Gronski would throw me down the stairs and I have a favor to ask of him. What I said is the highest praise for them and simply gall and wormwood for me."
"Beg pardon, again; I do not understand."
"For you see that for the average Pole to have respect for any one and not to be able to sharpen his teeth upon him is always annoying. I cannot speak of the ladies as I would wish, that is, disparagingly. I cannot endure ideal women; besides that, whenever it happens that I pass an evening with them, I become a more decent man and that is a luxury which in these times we cannot afford."
Ladislaus began to laugh and Gronski said:
"I told you that surely your head would swim."
After which to Swidwicki:
"If he should get any worse, I will induce him to send the doctor's and apothecary's bill to you."