therefore, with those two faithful companions of genius, hunger and
thirst. A poor man who discovers a valuable idea has always seemed to
me like a crumb of bread in a fish-pond; every fish takes a bite at
him. We are likely to reach the goal of glory naked and dying.

Monipodio
You are probably right.

Quinola
One morning at Valladolid, my master was within an ace of divulging
his secret to a philosopher who knew nothing of it. I warrant you, I
showed that gentleman the door, with a dose of cudgel given with a
good will.

Monipodio
But how is it possible for us to gain a fortune honestly?

Quinola
My master is in love. Now love forces a man to do as many foolish
things as wise things. We two have first of all to protect our
protector. My master is a philosopher who cannot keep accounts--

Monipodio
Oh! my dear fellow, in choosing a master, you ought to have selected
one--

Quinola
Devotion and address count more with him than money; for money and
favor to him are mere snares. I know him well; he will either give us
or permit us to take enough to end our days in respectability.