'Gone, you see.

Took the hint at once.' 'I do not, I confess,' said Desprez, 'I do not seek to excuse his absence.

It speaks a want of heart that disappoints me sorely.' 'Want of manners,' corrected Casimir.

'Heart, he never had.

Why, Desprez, for a clever fellow, you are the most gullible mortal in creation.