Yes, dear boy," he continued, "I have met loving, noble, high-minded men, but I have not yet met any women--countesses or cooks--who were not venal.

I have not yet met that divine purity and devotion I look for in women.

If I found such a one I'd give my life for her! But those!..." and he made a gesture of contempt.

" And believe me, if I still value my life it is only because I still hope to meet such a divine creature, who will regenerate, purify, and elevate me.

But you don't understand it.