You will have the
goodness to remember that if I don't look after your interests,
no one else will. It's perhaps fortunate for you that I have a
good deal of the man of business about me. Dolomore thought I was
a dreamy, literary fellow. I don't say that he isn't entirely
honest, but he shows something of a disposition to play the
autocrat, and I by no means intend to let him. If you had a
father, Dolomore would have to submit his affairs to examination.
I stand to you in loco parentis, and I shall bate no jot of my
rights.'
'But you can't say that his behaviour hasn't been perfectly
straightforward.'
'I don't wish to. I think, on the whole, he has behaved more
honourably than was to be expected of a man of his kind. But he
must treat me with respect. My position in the world is greatly
superior to his. And, by the gods! I will be treated
respectfully! It wouldn't be amiss, Maud, if you just gave him a
hint to that effect.'
'All I have to say is, Jasper, don't do me an irreparable injury.
You might, without meaning it.'
'No fear whatever of it.
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