Selfish persons can live without chick or child, they can live without all mankind except perhaps the barber and the apothecary; but when it comes to dying, they seem physically unable to die without an heir.

You can apply this principle for yourself.

Viscount Alain, though he scarce guesses it, is no longer in the field.

Remains, Viscount Anne.' 'I see,' said I, 'you give a very unfavourable impression of my uncle, the Count.' 'I had not meant it,' said he.

'He has led a loose life--sadly loose--but he is a man it is impossible to know and not to admire; his courtesy is exquisite.' 'And so you think there is actually a chance for me ?' I asked.
'Understand,' said he: 'in saying as much as I have done, I travel quite beyond my brief.