How can I exist under such treatment? How can I write him only brilliant stuff at less than a penny a line. I can't exist under it! And that is why I'm going to try to get out of the business. If only I could earn twenty-five to thirty dollars, I would never in my life write again for a newspaper; I would then set up for myself in business--a little business that could support me.
Leave that to me, dear Adelaide. The young man wants to cease being a journalist. That appeals to me. Here, here is money such as you desire if you will promise me from this day on not to touch a pen again for a newspaper. Here, take it.
A Prussian bank note--twenty-five thalers in currency? On my honor, I promise you, on my honor and salvation, I go this very day to a cousin of mine who has a paying business. Would you like an I.O.U., Colonel, or shall I make out a long-term promissory note?
Then I will write out a regular I.O.U. I prefer it to be only an I.O.U.
I don't want your I.O.U. either. Sir, for God's sake get out of the house!
And how about the interest? If I can have it at five per cent. I should like it.
The gentleman makes you a present of the money.
He makes me a present of the money? It's a miracle! I tell you what, Colonel, if I don't succeed with the money it remains a gift, but if I work my way up with it I return it. I hope I will work my way up. COLONEL. Do just as you like about that.
I like to have it that way, Colonel.--Meanwhile I thank you, and may some other joy come to make it up to you. Good day, Sir and Madam.
We must not forget the lunch. [_Rings,_ KORB _enters_.] Dear Korb! [_Talks in a low tone to him_.]
And now, dear lady, explain this whole conversation; it concerns me intimately enough.
Senden spoke tactlessly to outsiders about his relations with you and your household. This young man had overheard some of it, and also had notes written by Senden in his possession, which contained unsuitable expressions. I thought it best to get these notes out of his hands.
I want you to let me have those letters, Adelaide.
Nor is it worth while to do so. But still I beg you won't look at them. You know enough now, for you know that he, with his associates, does not merit such great confidence as you have latterly reposed in him.
