human
Not enough, not enough, said Cesare Dias, wishing to cap the compliment, and at the same time to bring his own philosophy into relief.
gpt
As often as I find myself in the presence of these two girls, Luigi, who are two flowers of youthfulness, I seem to feel older than ever. I feel that I must be a hundred at least. How many changes of Government have I seen? Eight or nine, perhaps. Yes, I'm certainly more than a hundred, dear Anna.
human
Why do you say such things--such sad things?
gpt
Indeed they are sad--indeed they are. Youth is the only treasure whose loss one may weep for the whole of one's life.
human
But don't feel badly about it, dear Cesare. Consider. Isn't knowledge better than ignorance? Isn't the calm of autumn better than the storms of spring? You are our master--the master of us all. We all revere him, don't we, _Signorina_?
gpt
And you, who say nothing, reasonable and placid Laura? asked Cesare Dias.
human
Which is better--youth or age? Which is better--knowledge or ignorance? Here are knotty problems submitted to your wisdom, dear Minerva. You are a young girl, but you are also Minerva. Illuminate us. Who should be the happier--I, the master, or Caracciolo, my pupil?
gpt
It is best to combine the two--to have youth and wisdom together.
human
The problem is solved!
gpt
And the _entr'acte_ is over; everything in its time. Good evening, good evening; good-bye, Cesare,