"Good morning, uncle," said Gottlieb, cheerfully, "how is your health?"
"Why do you ask?"
"Your voice sounds just as if I was a robber demanding your purse or
your life. What is the matter?"
"That which you told me yesterday makes your comparison very apt."
"You are mistaken. It is not my intention to play the part of the famous
Rinaldo Rinaldini. I am the most peaceable person in the world, and if
you wish to remain at peace at home--which is very natural, you know--I
have no desire to prevent you from doing so."
"But, perhaps, you intend to demand from me three times the sum of money
necessary to fee a lawyer, to bribe you to secrecy."
"Shame upon you. I have not demanded anything. I only expect--"
"What?" inquired his uncle.
"That you will of your own free will and accord loan me the money
necessary to pay old Mr. Lonner's fine. In a few months, when Ragnar
Lonner returns and repays me, I will settle with you. If he does not
repay me, why it is but a small sum to lose."
"And what will you require for yourself?" inquired Mr.
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