I ca n't ask it of you at your age , '' began Laurie , who was grateful for the sacrifice , but much preferred to go alone , if he went at all . The old gentleman knew that perfectly well , and particularly desired to prevent it , for the mood in which he found his grandson assured him that it would not be wise to leave him to his own devices . So , stifling a natural regret at the thought of the home comforts he would leave behind him , he said stoutly , `` Bless your soul , I 'm not superannuated yet . I quite enjoy the idea . It will do me good , and my old bones wo n't suffer , for traveling nowadays is almost as easy as sitting in a chair . '' A restless movement from Laurie suggested that his chair was not easy , or that he did not like the plan , and made the old man add hastily , `` I do n't mean to be a marplot or a burden . I go because I think you 'd feel happier than if I was left behind . I do n't intend to gad about with you , but leave you free to go where you like , while I amuse myself in my own way . I 've friends in London and Paris , and should like to visit them . Meantime you can go to Italy , Germany , Switzerland , where you will , and enjoy pictures , music , scenery , and adventures to your heart 's content . '' Now , Laurie felt just then that his heart was entirely broken and the world a howling wilderness , but at the sound of certain words which the old gentleman artfully introduced into his closing sentence , the broken heart gave an unexpected leap , and a green oasis or two suddenly appeared in the howling wilderness . He sighed , and then said , in a spiritless tone , `` Just as you like , Sir . It does n't matter where I go or what I do . '' `` It does to me , remember that , my lad . I give you entire liberty , but I trust you to make an honest use of it . Promise me that , Laurie . '' `` Anything you like , Sir . '' `` Good , '' thought the old gentleman . `` You do n't care now , but there 'll come a time when that promise will keep you out of mischief , or I 'm much mistaken . '' Being an energetic individual , Mr. Laurence struck while the iron was hot , and before the blighted being recovered spirit enough to rebel , they were off .
During the time necessary for preparation , XXXXX bore himself as young gentleman usually do in such cases .
Germany Italy Laurie London Paris Switzerland gad left marplot oasis