Nem. No! Like the father—no. Inclined to gaiety—yes. What would you have the son of Don Juan to be?
Tim. Everybody is inclined to gaiety. I am so, you are so——
Nem. It is not that. It is that according to my information (lowering his voice) he is not so robust as the papa supposes. Lazarus suffers from vertigo—nervous attacks—what shall I say?—something of that sort. At long intervals, it’s true; but that head of his is not strong. That’s why he does such stupendous things, and that’s why they call him a genius. Don’t trust men of genius, Timoteo. A genius goes along the street, and every one says, “The genius! the genius!” He turns round the corner, and the little boys in the next street run after him shouting: “The madman! the madman!” Timoteo, it is very dangerous to have much cleverness.
Tim. God deliver us from it. Oh! as to that I have always been very careful.
Nem. So have I. A man should not be altogether a fool; that’s not well. But the thing is—don’t be a genius.
Tim. Never. Here’s Juan coming back.
Nem. Say nothing to him of what I have told you. They either don’t know of the sufferings of Lazarus, or they hide them; it’s natural.
Tim. Not a word! but it’s well to know it.
Re-enter Don Juan.
Juan (dressed for going out). Are we ready?