“Your signature! What one might call the only and unique _sanctum sanctorum_ of the disciples of Mercury. A thing so sacred!” “My dear _Boni_,” said his friend, “_veuillez ne pas m’interrompre_?[60] The fellow’s countenance lighted up. I believe, upon my word, that he had not eaten in three days. Laughing within myself, although my face 192 denoted the gravest sympathy for his situation, I led him to a closet, took out a case of pistols, which I opened, and, handing him a weapon, said, as I bowed his dismissal, ‘Here is a remedy for all your troubles.’ My mendicant turned upon his heel and left; and you may be sure that I have rid myself of him, _une bonne fois pour toutes_.”[61] Boni’s mirth was overpowering. Gallardo and the rest of the Spaniards were silent. “You must positively put this joke into some paper,” said the capitalist’s admirer, between his paroxysms of laughter. “_Mon cher, à quoi bon?_”[62] responded the hero of the anecdote, with an air of modesty. “To show people how to get rid of impostors,” answered Boni; “to furnish a specimen of your humor--to let it be seen that you are as richly endowed by nature as by fortune--to give circulation to an entertaining item--and to--” “And could a paper be found that would print such an iniquity as an entertaining item!” shouted the old general, no longer able to contain his wrath. “Is it the mission of the press to propagate such ideas and sentiments? God help us, sirs, if there is no one left in Spain capable of a blush! Can the press parade infamy shamelessly, and no one be found to repudiate the impudence that relates such a scandal in terms of laudation; or appeal from it to the noble and generous instincts, and sense of public decorum, of good and true Spaniards? Have we become as positive as the written law? In former times, gentlemen, not all gave, but the few that denied did not boast of their refusal. Charity made men sorry to say no, even to impostors, and, having said it, they would have been silent about it for shame. Avarice was looked upon as one of the disgraceful vices which respect for public opinion required to be kept out of sight.” “Uncle, for God’s sake!” entreated Gallardo. “For God’s sake what, nephew?” “Speak with more moderation.” “When I do, look towards Antequera for sunrise.” “Don’t feel apprehensive, general,” said the capitalist, “_Je sais vivre_.[63] I respect your family, and know how to make allowance for gray hairs and the ill-humor of advanced age.” “Yes,” instantly added the speaking shadow, “_carte blanche_ belongs to ladies, children, and--” He was going to add _old men_, but a look from the general silenced him. “No, nephew, don’t be apprehensive,” said the latter. “The weapons of a gentleman are for nobler uses than the punishment of insults.”