"Why?"
Count Corradini took off his glasses, put them on again, shifted the papers and plans in his imposing portfolio.
"May I ask again — why?" said Don Silverio in the gentlest tones of his beautiful voice.
"Because, because," answered the Syndic irritably, "because the whole affair is in treaty between our delegates and the companies. Public societies do not deal with private individuals directly, but by proxy."
"Pardon my ignorance," said Don Silverio, "but why does the commune desire to substitute itself for the owner?"
"It is usual."
"Ah! It is usual."
Corradini did not like the repetition of his phrase, which would not perhaps bear very close examination. He looked at his watch.
"Excuse me, Reverend Father, but time presses."
"Allow me to crave of your bounty a little more time, nevertheless. I am not habituated to business, but I believe, if I understand your worshipful self aright, the commune contemplates purchasing from the individuals, with power and intent to sell to the companies."