The Count of Monte Cristo

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others that he did not possess a farthing."

"And what is your opinion?"

"I ought not to influence you, because it is only my own personal
impression."

"Well, and it is that"--

"My opinion is, that all these old podestas, these ancient
condottieri,--for the Cavalcanti have commanded armies and governed
provinces,--my opinion, I say, is, that they have buried their millions
in corners, the secret of which they have transmitted only to their
eldest sons, who have done the same from generation to generation; and
the proof of this is seen in their yellow and dry appearance, like the
florins of the republic, which, from being constantly gazed upon, have
become reflected in them."