“You can!—yes, by my interest perhaps you mean.”
“No; by my own money, I mean.”
“Bribery and corruption! Harry, places are not in this country to be bought—openly—these are things one must not talk of: and pray, with your own money—if you could—what place upon earth would you purchase?”
“The only place in the world I should wish for, sir, would be a place in the country.”
Sir Ulick was surprised and alarmed; but said not a word that could betray his feelings.
“A place of my own,” continued Ormond, “a comfortable house and estate, on which I could live independently and happily, with some charming amiable woman.”
“Darrell, Dartford, Lardner, which?” said Sir Ulick, with a sarcastic smile.
“I am cured of these foolish fancies, sir.”
“Well, there is another more dangerous might seize you, against which I must warn you, and I trust one word of advice you will not take amiss.”
“Sir, I am very much obliged to you: how could I take advice from you as any thing but a proof of friendship?”