“Let’s not talk of that.”
“You’re right. What’s the use? Now we’ll plan our new stratagem. I’ll get to work preparing the proofs of the boy’s civil status. And do you wish to take charge of him?”
“Very well.”
“He can run your errands for you. He’s a pretty good hand at writing.”
“Never mind. Let him remain here.”
“Then, my dear Baroness, good-bye until one of these days when I’ll bring you the documents. Dear lady ... at your feet.”
“Ay, how ceremonious! Good-bye, Mingote! See him out, Manuel.”
The two men walked to the door together. There the agent placed his hands upon the youth’s shoulders.
“Good-bye, my lad,” he said. “And don’t forget, if ever you should become a baron in real earnest, that you owe it all to me.”
“I’ll not forget. You needn’t worry on that score,” answered Manuel.