– Yes? But, as far as I know, you are also somewhat interested in this family, especially the youngest," the Count answered him wryly.
– What? Do you suspect me of having a secret passion for poor Miss Cassandra? – The Vicomte was extremely indignant at such a malicious and perverse assumption of the Count. – How could you think such a thing? She is a child!
– Oh, yes, I forgot that you are as noble as King Arthur," said his friend again wryly.
– I'll be damned to say that Miss Cassie did make me sympathise with her! But not the kind of sympathy you have for her sister. My sympathy comes from pity for this sweet sick creature, and I want to help her, to get her into a good institution, to cure her mind a little. Good God, Colin, how perverse you are to think that I am interested in her as a woman! – The viscount was hotly indignant.
There was not a word of falsehood in his speech: no matter how beautiful Cassie's appearance, he saw in her only a sick child in need of an adult's care.
– Dominic, your nobility sometimes makes me mad," said the earl, who felt quite uncomfortable after his friend's sermon. – There's nothing wrong with having a pet.
– Better not to have a pet, but a good wife! – replied the Viscount.
– It is too early for me to marry.
– But I hope marriage will sooner or later rid your mind of filth and low desires.
– I have said before, and I will say it again: I am only interested in this peasant girl as a specimen of beauty. You will not forbid me to admire a woman's beauty, will you? – Looking at his friend, the Count said seriously.
– Of course not. But don't lie: I have known you for a long time and know how to recognise your feelings, – the viscount answered him seriously. – Have pity on the foolish girl: having seduced her, you will soon get fed up with her and leave her, and her life will be broken. You know very well what gossip is, especially gossip in this religion-obsessed village. The poor disgraced girl and her family will be brought to the dust.
– You're right, my friend, absolutely right. But I think I have inadvertently, without wishing it, aroused the girl's feelings for me, and I don't want to burden myself with them. I should leave.
– That is an excellent solution," said the Viscount, without sarcasm.