Octavio (continuing). You are a stranger here—'twas but
yesterday you arrived—you are ignorant of the ways and means
here. 'Tis a wretched place—I know, at our age, one loves to
be snug and quiet—What if you moved your lodgings?—Come,
be my visitor. (Butler makes a low bow.) Nay, without [65]
compliment!—For a friend like you, I have still a corner
remaining.
Butler. Your obliged humble servant, my Lord
Lieutenant-General!
[The paper comes to Butler, who goes to the table to subscribe it. The front of the stage is vacant, so that both the Piccolominis, each on the side where he had been from the commencement of the scene, remain alone.
Octavio (after having some time watched his son in silence, advances
somewhat nearer to him). You were long absent from us,
friend! 70
Max. I——urgent business detained me.
Octavio. And, I observe, you are still absent!
Max. You know this crowd and bustle always makes me
silent. [75]
Octavio. May I be permitted to ask what business 'twas that
detained you? Tertsky knows it without asking!
Max. What does Tertsky know?
Octavio. He was the only one who did not miss you.