He's been given the boot!' Lofton insisted, directing his…
““He's been given the boot!' Lofton insisted, directing his anger now at Mister Walton. 'And I think it wise not to interfere!' 'I don't like to benefit from another's misfortune,' said Mister Walton with a straight face, and never losing his peaceful demeanor. ' But the hotel's loss, in this case, is my gain, I fear.' 'Mr. Hubbard will be gravely offended!' said Lofton darkly. 'I can't imagine it,' quipped the bespectacled fellow. 'Only small people are easily offended.' Lofton, who until now had done his best to appear offended, found himself at a loss for a response.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character rationalizes benefiting from another's loss while claiming moral restraint, exposing hypocrisy.
In simple terms: Someone pretends to be moral while exploiting a loss.
Key Takeaway
Watch for hidden self‑interest.
Themes
hypocrisy
morality
self‑interest
Mood
cautious
skeptical
Type
dialogue
character study
When to use this quote
- business negotiations
- personal conflicts
- ethical debates
Key Concepts
ethical paradox
social manipulation
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever justify selfish actions as harmless?
- How can you tell when someone is truly impartial?
A Different Perspective
The speaker's claim of peace may be a façade for personal gain.