"
"We will not quarrel for precedence in this matter, but thou wilt do well
to remember that I possess especial means to push his interests;--means
that thou canst not by possibility use."
"That is not proved;" interrupted the Baron de Willading. "I have not thy
particular station, it is true, Signor Gaetano, nor thy political power,
nor thy princely fortune; but, poor as I am in these, there is a boon in
my keeping that is worth them all, and which will be more acceptable to
the boy, or I much mistake his mettle, than any favors that thou hast
named or canst name."
The Signor Grimaldi had pursued his walk, with eyes thoughtfully fastened
on the ground; but he now raised them, in surprise, to the countenance of
his friend, as if to ask an explanation. The baron was not only committed
by what had escaped him, but he was warming with opposition, for the best
may frequently do very excellent things under the influence of motives of
but a very indifferent aspect.
"Thou knowest I have a daughter," resumed the Swiss firmly, determined to
break the ice at once, and expose a decision which he feared his friend
might deem a weakness.
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