human
Well?
gpt
Do you want me to put myself within reach of the Gray Wolf's paws? retorted Messer Hugolin, shrewdly.
human
I was flayed badly enough the last time the _Black Swan_ cast anchor before Croye, and I am not paying between rent-days.
gpt
The year is almost up,
human
I have lived my life, returned the old man, with sombre fixity of resolve,
gpt
But that letter--a mother pleading for her child. You have but to give the word--there are men who will go, and gladly.
human
I doubt it not, for there are always drones a-plenty around a beehive. But why should I spend my good, red gold to make a beggar's holiday?
gpt
Their blood is redder than your gold, he said.
human
And if they are not afraid to risk----
gpt
What has cost them nothing and for whose loss there is quick repair in a few square inches of sticking-plaster. Tush! boy, you speak of these things as one who dreams visions at noonday. While I--what I know, I know. There is but one thing precious in the world, and that is what a man holds safely in his strong-box. Why should I spend myself for naught?
human
The girl is your niece--your flesh and blood.
gpt
No more so than yourself, nephew. And tell me, have I ever been over-tender with you on that account? Can you call to mind when and where I have spared you because you were of my kin? At least, I make a virtue of my honesty.