"I said I was not interested in a web of legal fictions.  But a patient and guest under my roof is another matter.  He can stay, if he likes.  I just wanted to make it clear that I had no intention of meddling with politics to suit any romantic notions you or Ben Caxton may have.  My dear, I used to think I was serving humanity... and I pleasured in the thought.  Then I discovered that humanity does not want to be served; on the contrary it resents any attempt to serve it.  So now I do what pleases Jubal Harshaw." He turned to Dorcas as if the subject were closed. "Time for dinner, isn't it, Dorcas?  Is anyone doing anything about it?"