"I have come to you on business.

My daughter has disappeared with your son, or whatever relation the Signor Giovanni Cardegna is to you." "He is no relation, Signor Conte.

He was an orphan, and I--" "It is the same," he interrupted.

"You are responsible for his doings." I responsible! Good heavens, had I not done all in my power to prevent the rashness of that hot-headed boy?
"Will you not sit down, sir ?" I said, moving a chair for him.

He took the seat rather reluctantly.
"You do not seem much astonished at what I tell you," he remarked.