And another reminder that Charles Gould is a native of Costaguana. Note that although he is amusedly dismissive of the doctor (this is probably Charles Gould's closest approach to a joke) he doesn't deny outright the doctor's cynical outlook. Charles is aware, it seems, that this entire outbreak of "trouble" is a crop raised by his silver mine. He may be less aware of what his next line suggests, that the "trouble" includes his relationship with his wife. Note that he has physically lost her, and must inquire of her whereabouts to Dr. Monygham, his silent rival for her affections.