‘Oh, I don’t know—I’ll think it over. It’s a deuced hole to have got into; though I suppose it is, as you say, about the only way to help. No doubt I can raise money and distribute bread as well as another.’
‘Appoint Copley on a sub-committee. He’ll be glad to give.’
‘I don’t like to ask him. He doesn’t go in for alms; he’s all for future—though in a time like this——’
‘In a time like this we’re all willing to step aside a bit. I’m glad you’ve decided to work on the side of the government. It is, as things stand, the only sensible thing to do.’
‘I haven’t decided yet. And I do not, as I told you before, care a rap what becomes of the government. It’s the people I’m helping.’
‘It amounts to the same thing.’
‘Not in Italy.’
‘Oh, very well. You’re incorrigible. At least keep your opinions to yourself.’
‘I’m not likely to shout them abroad under the present régime. And as to this infernal committee—oh, well, I’ll think about it.’
‘Very well; think favourably. It’s the only way to help, remember—and very good policy into the bargain. Some day, my boy, maybe you’ll grow sensible. Good-bye.’