Page:Plays by Jacinto Benavente - Second series (IA playsbyjacintobe00bena).pdf/318

. I know what I am talking about, because I have heard other people talking, although you may not

. I certainly have not, but you are in a position to inform me. You are not such a coward as to be afraid to mention names.

. I am not such a coward as to be intimidated into mentioning them.

. Eh?

. [To ] As this is my house, you will kindly address your remarks to me; I am the person you desired to see.

. No, leave him to me

. Enough of this! Obviously, your chief concern is—what shall I say?—the practical question; at least you convey that impression. As for these expenses you speak of, this indemnization to which you consider yourself entitled, and which I ought to provide—I take it that I am a person who is thoroughly competent to estimate the expenses of your establishment.

. You are, as I take it; Josefina always consulted you and your wife. I never know the cost of anything. However, we shall be obliged—how shall I say it?—to hold an auction, to ask for the highest bidder. So I am giving you notice before posting the bills. If you are interested, we are making special prices to our friends.

. Thank you very much.

. Good! You shall be reimbursed in full in the morning; we understand each other. I am anxious that you should carry away only pleasant memories of Madrid.

. Yes, indeed! Poor Josefina is desolated at the thought of quitting Madrid. Should she ever meet disaster, she says we must look for her here. So if to-morrow is convenient