human
You are an honorable man, he said.
gpt
I can no more tell you why I wish to help Donna Sabina to her rights, if she has any, than I can explain a great many things I have done in my life. When I see a dog kicked, I always kick the man, if I can, and I do not remember to have regretted any momentary unpleasantness that has followed in such cases. I have only seen Donna Sabina once, but I mean to help her if possible. Now tell me this. Has she any legal claim in the value of the palace or not?
human
I am afraid not,
gpt
Do you know whether she was ever induced to sign any release of her guardians?
human
She never did.
gpt
That might be bad for them. That is all I wished to know. Thank you.
human
If anything of importance happens, can you communicate with Donna Sabina?
gpt
I can write to her, Sassi answered.
human
I suppose she would receive me if I went to the house.
gpt
That would be better.
human
Excuse me, said the old man, before opening the door to let his visitor out,
gpt
Yes.
human
At the north-west corner within the courtyard?
gpt
Yes, answered Malipieri, looking at him attentively.
human
Do you happen to know anything about the condition of that part of the palace?
gpt
Most people, Sassi replied,
human
Indeed? I did not know that. What was the result?
gpt
The workmen came across the 'lost water.' It rose suddenly one day and one of them was drowned. I believe his body was never recovered. Everything was filled in again after that. For my own part I do not think the building is in any danger.
human
Perhaps not, said Malipieri, suddenly looking bored.
gpt
I only carry out the Senator's wishes, he added, as if with an afterthought.
human
It is my business to find out whether there is danger or not.