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diff --git a/1748-h/1748-h.htm b/1748-h/1748-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d6c5b2e --- /dev/null +++ b/1748-h/1748-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,25067 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <title> + Other People's Money, by Emile Gaboriau + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Other People's Money, by Emile Gaboriau + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Other People's Money + +Author: Emile Gaboriau + +Release Date: October 28, 2008 [EBook #1748] +Last Updated: September 24, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OTHER PEOPLE'S MONEY *** + + + + +Produced by An Anonymous Volunteer, and David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <h1> + OTHER PEOPLE’S MONEY + </h1> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + by Emile Gaboriau + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <h2> + CONTENTS + </h2> + <p> + <a href="#linkpart1">PART I.</a><br /> <br /> <a href="#linkpart2">PART II.</a> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><a name="linkpart1" id="linkpart1"></a> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + PART I + </h1> + <h2> + I + </h2> + <p> + There is not, perhaps, in all Paris, a quieter street than the Rue St. + Gilles in the Marais, within a step of the Place Royale. No + carriages there; never a crowd. Hardly is the silence broken by the + regulation drums of the Minims Barracks near by, by the chimes of the + Church of St. Louis, or by the joyous clamors of the pupils of the Massin + School during the hours of recreation. + </p> + <p> + At night, long before ten o’clock, and when the Boulevard Beaumarchais is + still full of life, activity, and noise, every thing begins to close. + One by one the lights go out, and the great windows with diminutive panes + become dark. And if, after midnight, some belated citizen passes on + his way home, he quickens his step, feeling lonely and uneasy, and + apprehensive of the reproaches of his concierge, who is likely to ask him + whence he may be coming at so late an hour. + </p> + <p> + In such a street, every one knows each other: houses have no mystery; + families, no secrets,—a small town, where idle curiosity has always + a corner of the veil slyly raised, where gossip flourishes as rankly as + the grass on the street. + </p> + <p> + Thus on the afternoon of the 27th of April, 1872 (a Saturday), a fact + which anywhere else might have passed unnoticed was attracting particular + attention. + </p> + <p> + A man some thirty years of age, wearing the working livery of servants of + the upper class,—the long striped waistcoat with sleeves, and the + white linen apron,—was going from door to door. + </p> + <p> + “Who can the man be looking for?” wondered the idle neighbors, + closely watching his evolutions. + </p> + <p> + He was not looking for any one. To such as he spoke to, he stated + that he had been sent by a cousin of his, an excellent cook, who, before + taking a place in the neighborhood, was anxious to have all possible + information on the subject of her prospective masters. And then, + “Do you know M. Vincent Favoral?” he would ask. + </p> + <p> + Concierges and shop-keepers knew no one better; for it was more than a + quarter of a century before, that M. Vincent Favoral, the day after his + wedding, had come to settle in the Rue St. Gilles; and there his two + children were born,—his son M. Maxence, his daughter Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + He occupied the second story of the house. No. 38,—one of + those old-fashioned dwellings, such as they build no more, since ground is + sold at twelve hundred francs the square metre; in which there is no + stinting of space. The stairs, with wrought iron balusters, are wide + and easy, and the ceilings twelve feet high. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, we know M. Favoral,” answered every one to the + servant’s questions; “and, if there ever was an honest man, why, he + is certainly the one. There is a man whom you could trust with your + funds, if you had any, without fear of his ever running off to Belgium + with them.” And it was further explained, that M. Favoral was + chief cashier, and probably, also, one of the principal stockholders, of + the Mutual Credit Society, one of those admirable financial institutions + which have sprung up with the second empire, and which had won at the + bourse the first installment of their capital, the very day that the game + of the Coup d’Etat was being played in the street. + </p> + <p> + “I know well enough the gentleman’s business,” remarked the + servant; “but what sort of a man is he? That’s what my cousin + would like to know.” + </p> + <p> + The wine-man at No. 43, the oldest shop-keeper in the street, could best + answer. A couple of <i>petits-verres</i> politely offered soon + started his tongue; and, whilst sipping his Cognac: + </p> + <p> + “M. Vincent Favoral,” he began, “is a man some + fifty-two or three years old, but who looks younger, not having a single + gray hair. He is tall and thin, with neatly-trimmed whiskers, thin + lips, and small yellow eyes; not talkative. It takes more ceremony + to get a word from his throat than a dollar from his pocket. ‘Yes,’ + ‘no,’ ‘good-morning,’ ‘good-evening;’ + that’s about the extent of his conversation. Summer and winter, he + wears gray pantaloons, a long frock-coat, laced shoes, and lisle-thread + gloves. ‘Pon my word, I should say that he is still wearing the very + same clothes I saw upon his back for the first time in 1845, did I not + know that he has two full suits made every year by the concierge at No. + 29, who is also a tailor.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, he must be an old miser,” muttered the servant. + </p> + <p> + “He is above all peculiar,” continued the shop-keeper, “like + most men of figures, it seems. His own life is ruled and regulated + like the pages of his ledger. In the neighborhood they call him Old + Punctuality; and, when he passes through the Rue Turenne, the merchants + set their watches by him. Rain or shine, every morning of the year, + on the stroke of nine, he appears at the door on the way to his office. + When he returns, you may be sure it is between twenty and twenty-five + minutes past five. At six he dines; at seven he goes to play a game + of dominoes at the Café Turc; at ten he comes home and goes to bed; + and, at the first stroke of eleven at the Church of St. Louis, out goes + his candle.” + </p> + <p> + “Hem!” grumbled the servant with a look of contempt, “the + question is, will my cousin be willing to live with a man who is a sort of + walking clock?” + </p> + <p> + “It isn’t always pleasant,” remarked the wine-man; “and + the best evidence is, that the son, M. Maxence, got tired of it.” + </p> + <p> + “He does not live with his parents any more?” + </p> + <p> + “He dines with them; but he has his own lodgings on the Boulevard du + Temple. The falling-out made talk enough at the time; and some + people do say that M. Maxence is a worthless scamp, who leads a very + dissipated life; but I say that his father kept him too close. The + boy is twenty-five, quite good looking, and has a very stylish mistress: + I have seen her. . . . I would have done just as he did.” + </p> + <p> + “And what about the daughter, Mlle. Gilberte?” + </p> + <p> + “She is not married yet, although she is past twenty, and pretty as + a rosebud. After the war, her father tried to make her marry a + stock-broker, a stylish man who always came in a two-horse carriage; but + she refused him outright. I should not be a bit surprised to hear + that she has some love-affair of her own. I have noticed lately a + young gentleman about here who looks up quite suspiciously when he goes by + No. 38.” The servant did not seem to find these particulars + very interesting. + </p> + <p> + “It’s the lady,” he said, “that my cousin would like to + know most about.” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally. Well, you can safely tell her that she never will + have had a better mistress. Poor Madame Favoral! She must have + had a sweet time of it with her maniac of a husband! But she is not + young any more; and people get accustomed to every thing, you know. + The days when the weather is fine, I see her going by with her daughter to + the Place Royale for a walk. That’s about their only amusement.” + </p> + <p> + “The mischief!” said the servant, laughing. “If + that is all, she won’t ruin her husband, will she?” + </p> + <p> + “That is all,” continued the shop-keeper, “or rather, + excuse me, no: every Saturday, for many years, M. and Mme. Favoral + receive a few of their friends: M. and Mme. Desclavettes, retired + dealers in bronzes, Rue Turenne; M. Chapelain, the old lawyer from the Rue + St. Antoine, whose daughter is Mlle. Gilberte’s particular friend; M. + Desormeaux, head clerk in the Department of Justice; and three or four + others; and as this just happens to be Saturday—” + </p> + <p> + But here he stopped short, and pointing towards the street: + </p> + <p> + “Quick,” said he, “look! Speaking of the—you + know—It is twenty minutes past five, there is M. Favoral coming + home.” + </p> + <p> + It was, in fact, the cashier of the Mutual Credit Society, looking very + much indeed as the shop-keeper had described him. Walking with his + head down, he seemed to be seeking upon the pavement the very spot upon + which he had set his foot in the morning, that he might set it back again + there in the evening. + </p> + <p> + With the same methodical step, he reached his house, walked up the two + pairs of stairs, and, taking out his pass-key, opened the door of his + apartment. + </p> + <p> + The dwelling was fit for the man; and every thing from the very hall, + betrayed his peculiarities. There, evidently, every piece of + furniture must have its invariable place, every object its irrevocable + shelf or hook. All around were evidences, if not exactly of poverty, + at least of small means, and of the artifices of a respectable economy. + Cleanliness was carried to its utmost limits: every thing shone. + Not a detail but betrayed the industrious hand of the housekeeper, + struggling to defend her furniture against the ravages of time. The + velvet on the chairs was darned at the angles as with the needle of a + fairy. Stitches of new worsted showed through the faded designs on + the hearth-rugs. The curtains had been turned so as to display their + least worn side. + </p> + <p> + All the guests enumerated by the shop-keeper, and a few others besides, + were in the parlor when M. Favoral came in. But, instead of + returning their greeting: + </p> + <p> + “Where is Maxence?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “I am expecting him, my dear,” said Mme. Favoral gently. + </p> + <p> + “Always behind time,” he scolded. “It is too + trifling.” + </p> + <p> + His daughter, Mlle. Gilberte, interrupted him: + </p> + <p> + “Where is my bouquet, father?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral stopped short, struck his forehead, and with the accent of a + man who reveals something incredible, prodigious, unheard of, + </p> + <p> + “Forgotten,” he answered, scanning the syllables: + “I have for-got-ten it.” + </p> + <p> + It was a fact. Every Saturday, on his way home, he was in the habit + of stopping at the old woman’s shop in front of the Church of St. Louis, + and buying a bouquet for Mlle. Gilberte. And to-day . . . + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I catch you this time, father!” exclaimed the girl. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Mme. Favoral, whispering to Mme. Desclavettes: + </p> + <p> + “Positively,” she said in a troubled voice, “something + serious must have happened to—my husband. He to forget! + He to fail in one of his habits! It is the first time in twenty-six + years.” + </p> + <p> + The appearance of Maxence at this moment prevented her from going on. + M. Favoral was about to administer a sound reprimand to his son, when + dinner was announced. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” exclaimed M. Chapelain, the old lawyer, the + conciliating man par excellence,—“come, let us to the table.” + </p> + <p> + They sat down. But Mme. Favoral had scarcely helped the soup, when + the bell rang violently. Almost at the same moment the servant + appeared, and announced: + </p> + <p> + “The Baron de Thaller!” + </p> + <p> + More pale than his napkin, the cashier stood up. “The manager,” + he stammered, “the director of the Mutual Credit Society.” + </p> + <h2> + II + </h2> + <p> + Close upon the heels of the servant M. de Thaller came. + </p> + <p> + Tall, thin, stiff, he had a very small head, a flat face, pointed nose, + and long reddish whiskers, slightly shaded with silvery threads, falling + half-way down his chest. Dressed in the latest style, he wore a + loose overcoat of rough material, pantaloons that spread nearly to the tip + of his boots, a wide shirt-collar turned over a light cravat, on the bow + of which shone a large diamond, and a tall hat with rolled brims. + With a blinking glance, he made a rapid estimate of the dining-room, the + shabby furniture, and the guests seated around the table. Then, + without even condescending to touch his hat, with his large hand tightly + fitted into a lavender glove, in a brief and imperious tone, and with a + slight accent which he affirmed was the Alsatian accent: + </p> + <p> + “I must speak with you, Vincent,” said he to his cashier, + “alone and at once.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral made visible efforts to conceal his anxiety. “You + see,” he commenced, “we are dining with a few friends, and—” + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish me to speak in presence of everybody?” + interrupted harshly the manager of the Mutual Credit. + </p> + <p> + The cashier hesitated no longer. Taking up a candle from the table, + he opened the door leading to the parlor, and, standing respectfully to + one side: + </p> + <p> + “Be kind enough to pass on, sir,” said he: “I + follow you.” + </p> + <p> + And, at the moment of disappearing himself, + </p> + <p> + “Continue to dine without me,” said he to his guests, with a + last effort at self-control. “I shall soon catch up with you. + This will take but a moment. Do not be uneasy in the least.” + </p> + <p> + They were not uneasy, but surprised, and, above all, shocked at the + manners of M. de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “What a brute!” muttered Mme. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + M. Desormeaux, the head clerk at the Department of Justice, was an old + legitimist, much imbued with reactionary ideas. + </p> + <p> + “Such are our masters,” said he with a sneer, “the high + barons of financial feudality. Ah! you are indignant at the + arrogance of the old aristocracy; well, on your knees, by Jupiter! on your + face, rather, before the golden crown on field of gules.” + </p> + <p> + No one replied: every one was trying his best to hear. + </p> + <p> + In the parlor, between M. Favoral and M. de Thaller, a discussion of the + utmost violence was evidently going on. To seize the meaning of it + was not possible; and yet through the door, the upper panels of which were + of glass, fragments could be heard; and from time to time such words + distinctly reached the ear as dividend, stockholders, deficit, millions, + etc. + </p> + <p> + “What can it all mean? great heaven!” moaned Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Doubtless the two interlocutors, the director and the cashier, had drawn + nearer to the door of communication; for their voices, which rose more and + more, had now become quite distinct. + </p> + <p> + “It is an infamous trap!” M. Favoral was saying. + “I should have been notified—” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come,” interrupted the other. “Were you not + fully warned? did I ever conceal any thing from you?” + </p> + <p> + Fear, a fear vague still, and unexplained, was slowly taking possession of + the guests; and they remained motionless, their forks in suspense, holding + their breath. + </p> + <p> + “Never,” M. Favoral was repeating, stamping his foot so + violently that the partition shook,—“never, never!” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it must be,” declared M. de Thaller. “It + is the only, the last resource.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose I will not!” + </p> + <p> + “Your will has nothing to do with it now. It is twenty years + ago that you might have willed, or not willed. But listen to me, and + let us reason a little.” + </p> + <p> + Here M. de Thaller dropped his voice; and for some minutes nothing was + heard in the dining-room, except confused words, and incomprehensible + exclamations, until suddenly, + </p> + <p> + “That is ruin,” he resumed in a furious tone: “it + is bankruptcy on the last of the month.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” the cashier was replying,—“sir!” + </p> + <p> + “You are a forger, M. Vincent Favoral; you are a thief!” + </p> + <p> + Maxence leaped from his seat. + </p> + <p> + “I shall not permit my father to be thus insulted in his own house,” + he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Maxence,” begged Mme. Favoral, “my son!” + </p> + <p> + The old lawyer, M. Chapelain, held him by the arm; but he struggled hard, + and was about to burst into the parlor, when the door opened, and the + director of the Mutual Credit stepped out. + </p> + <p> + With a coolness quite remarkable after such a scene, he advanced towards + Mlle. Gilberte, and, in a tone of offensive protection, + </p> + <p> + “Your father is a wretch, mademoiselle,” he said; “and + my duty should be to surrender him at once into the hands of justice. + On account of your worthy mother, however, of your father himself, above + all, on your own account, mademoiselle, I shall forbear doing so. + But let him fly, let him disappear, and never more be heard from.” + </p> + <p> + He drew from his pocket a roll of bank-notes, and, throwing them upon the + table, + </p> + <p> + “Hand him this,” he added. “Let him leave this + very night. The police may have been notified. There is a + train for Brussels at five minutes past eleven.” + </p> + <p> + And, having bowed, he withdrew, no one addressing him a single word, so + great was the astonishment of all the guests of this house, heretofore so + peaceful. + </p> + <p> + Overcome with stupor, Maxence had dropped upon his chair. Mlle. + Gilberte alone retained some presence of mind. + </p> + <p> + “It is a shame,” she exclaimed, “for us to give up thus! + That man is an impostor, a wretch; he lies! Father, father!” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral had not waited to be called, and was standing up against the + parlor-door, pale as death, and yet calm. + </p> + <p> + “Why attempt any explanations?” he said. “The + money is gone; and appearances are against me.” + </p> + <p> + His wife had drawn near to him, and taken his hand. “The + misfortune is immense,” she said, “but not irreparable. + We will sell everything we have.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you not friends? Are we not here,” insisted the + others,—M. Desclavettes, M. Desormeaux, and M. Chapelain. + </p> + <p> + Gently he pushed his wife aside, and coldly. + </p> + <p> + “All we had,” he said, “would be as a grain of sand in + an ocean. But we have no longer anything; we are ruined.” + </p> + <p> + “Ruined!” exclaimed M. Desormeaux,—“ruined! + And where are the forty-five thousand francs I placed into your hands?” + </p> + <p> + He made no reply. + </p> + <p> + “And our hundred and twenty thousand francs?” groaned M. and + Mme. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + “And my sixty thousand francs?” shouted M. Chapelain, with a + blasphemous oath. + </p> + <p> + The cashier shrugged his shoulders. “Lost,” he said, + “irrevocably lost!” + </p> + <p> + Then their rage exceeded all bounds. Then they forgot that this + unfortunate man had been their friend for twenty years, that they were his + guests; and they commenced heaping upon him threats and insults without + name. + </p> + <p> + He did not even deign to defend himself. + </p> + <p> + “Go on,” he uttered, “go on. When a poor dog, + carried away by the current, is drowning, men of heart cast stones at him + from the bank. Go on!” + </p> + <p> + “You should have told us that you speculated,” screamed M. + Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + On hearing these words, he straightened himself up, and with a gesture so + terrible that the others stepped back frightened. + </p> + <p> + “What!” said he, in a tone of crushing irony, “it is + this evening only, that you discover that I speculated? Kind + friends! Where, then, and in whose pockets, did you suppose I was + getting the enormous interests I have been paying you for years? + Where have you ever seen honest money, the money of labor, yield twelve or + fourteen per cent? The money that yields thus is the money of the + gaming table, the money of the bourse. Why did you bring me your + funds? Because you were fully satisfied that I knew how to handle + the cards. Ah! If I was to tell you that I had doubled your + capital, you would not ask how I did it, nor whether I had stocked the + cards. You would virtuously pocket the money. But I have lost: + I am a thief. Well, so be it. But, then, you are all my + accomplices. It is the avidity of the dupes which induces the + trickery of the sharpers.” + </p> + <p> + Here he was interrupted by the servant coming in. “Sir,” + she exclaimed excitedly, “O sir! the courtyard is full of police + agents. They are speaking to the concierge. They are coming up + stairs: I hear them!” + </p> + <h2> + III + </h2> + <p> + According to the time and place where they are uttered, there are words + which acquire a terrible significance. In this disordered room, in + the midst of these excited people, that word, the “police,” + sounded like a thunderclap. + </p> + <p> + “Do not open,” Maxence ordered; “do not open, however + they may ring or knock. Let them burst the door first.” + </p> + <p> + The very excess of her fright restored to Mme. Favoral a portion of her + energy. Throwing herself before her husband as if to protect him, as + if to defend him, + </p> + <p> + “They are coming to arrest you, Vincent,” she exclaimed. + “They are coming; don’t you hear them?” + </p> + <p> + He remained motionless, his feet seemingly riveted to the floor. + </p> + <p> + “That is as I expected,” he said. + </p> + <p> + And with the accent of the wretch who sees all hope vanish, and who + utterly gives up all struggle, + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” he said. “Let them arrest me, and let + all be over at once. I have had enough anxiety, enough unbearable + alternatives. I am tired always to feign, to deceive, and to lie. + Let them arrest me! Any misfortune will be smaller in reality than + the horrors of uncertainty. I have nothing more to fear now. + For the first time in many years I shall sleep to-night.” + </p> + <p> + He did not notice the sinister expression of his guests. “You + think I am a thief,” he added: “well, be satisfied, + justice shall be done.” + </p> + <p> + But he attributed to them sentiments which were no longer theirs. + They had forgotten their anger, and their bitter resentment for their lost + money. + </p> + <p> + The imminence of the peril awoke suddenly in their souls the memories of + the past, and that strong affection which comes from long habit, and a + constant exchange of services rendered. Whatever M. Favoral might + have done, they only saw in him now the friend, the host whose bread they + had broken together more than a hundred times, the man whose probity, up + to this fatal night, had remained far above suspicion. + </p> + <p> + Pale, excited, they crowded around him. + </p> + <p> + “Have you lost your mind?” spoke M. Desormeaux. “Are + you going to wait to be arrested, thrown into prison, dragged into a + criminal court?” + </p> + <p> + He shook his head, and in a tone of idiotic obstinacy, + </p> + <p> + “Have I not told you,” he repeated, “that every thing is + against me? Let them come; let them do what they please with me.” + </p> + <p> + “And your wife,” insisted M. Chapelain, the old lawyer, + “and your children!” + </p> + <p> + “Will they be any the less dishonored if I am condemned by default?” + </p> + <p> + Wild with grief, Mme. Favoral was wringing her hands. + </p> + <p> + “Vincent,” she murmured, “in the name of Heaven spare us + the harrowing agony to have you in prison.” + </p> + <p> + Obstinately he remained silent. His daughter, Mlle. Gilberte, + dropped upon her knees before him, and, joining her hands: + </p> + <p> + “I beseech you, father,” she begged. + </p> + <p> + He shuddered all over. An unspeakable expression of suffering and + anguish contracted his features; and, speaking in a scarcely intelligible + voice: + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you are cruelly protracting my agony,” he stammered. + “What do you ask of me?” + </p> + <p> + “You must fly,” declared M. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + “Which way? How? Do you not think that every precaution + has been taken, that every issue is closely watched?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence interrupted him with a gesture: + </p> + <p> + “The windows in sister’s room, father,” said he, “open + upon the courtyard of the adjoining house.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but here we are up two pairs of stairs.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter: I have a way.” + </p> + <p> + And turning towards his sister: + </p> + <p> + “Come, Gilberte,” went on the young man, “give me a + light, and let me have some sheets.” + </p> + <p> + They went out hurriedly. Mme. Favoral felt a gleam of hope. + </p> + <p> + “We are saved!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Saved!” repeated the cashier mechanically. “Yes; + for I guess Maxence’s idea. But we must have an understanding. + Where will you take refuge?” + </p> + <p> + “How can I tell?” + </p> + <p> + “There is a train at five minutes past eleven,” remarked M. + Desormeaux. “Don’t let us forget that.” + </p> + <p> + “But money will be required to leave by that train,” + interrupted the old lawyer. “Fortunately, I have some.” + </p> + <p> + And, forgetting his hundred and sixty thousand francs lost, he took out + his pocket-book. Mme. Favoral stopped him. “We have more + than we need,” said she. + </p> + <p> + She took from the table, and held out to her husband, the roll of bank + notes which the director of the Mutual Credit Society had thrown down + before going. + </p> + <p> + He refused them with a gesture of rage. + </p> + <p> + “Rather starve to death!” he exclaimed. “’Tis he, ‘tis + that wretch—” But he interrupted himself, and more gently: + </p> + <p> + “Put away those bank-bills,” said he to his wife, “and + let Maxence take them back to M. de Thaller to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + The bell rang violently. + </p> + <p> + “The police!” groaned Mme. Desclavettes, who seemed on the + point of fainting away. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to negotiate,” said M. Desormeaux. “Fly, + Vincent: do not lose a minute.” + </p> + <p> + And he ran to the front-door, whilst Mme. Favoral was hurrying her husband + towards Mlle. Gilberte’s room. + </p> + <p> + Rapidly and stoutly Maxence had fastened four sheets together by the ends, + which gave a more than sufficient length. Then, opening the window, + he examined carefully the courtyard of the adjoining house. + </p> + <p> + “No one,” said he: “everybody is at dinner. + We’ll succeed.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral was tottering like a drunken man. A terrible emotion + convulsed his features. Casting a long look upon his wife and + children: + </p> + <p> + “O Lord!” he murmured, “what will become of you?” + </p> + <p> + “Fear nothing, father,” uttered Maxence. “I am + here. Neither my mother nor my sister will want for any thing.” + </p> + <p> + “My son!” resumed the cashier, “my children!” + </p> + <p> + Then, with a choking voice: + </p> + <p> + “I am worthy neither of your love nor your devotion, wretch that I + am! I made you lead a miserable existence, spend a joyless youth. + I imposed upon you every trial of poverty, whilst I—And now I leave + you nothing but ruin and a dishonored name.” + </p> + <p> + “Make haste, father,” interrupted Mlle. Gilberte. It + seemed as if he could not make up his mind. + </p> + <p> + “It is horrible to abandon you thus. What a parting! Ah! + death would indeed be far preferable. What will you think of me? + I am very guilty, certainly, but not as you think. I have been + betrayed, and I must suffer for all. If at least you knew the whole + truth. But will you ever know it? We will never see each other + again.” + </p> + <p> + Desperately his wife clung to him. + </p> + <p> + “Do not speak thus,” she said. “Wherever you may + find an asylum, I will join you. Death alone can separate us. + What do I care what you may have done, or what the world will say? I + am your wife. Our children will come with me. If necessary, we + will emigrate to America; we’ll change our name; we will work.” + </p> + <p> + The knocks on the outer door were becoming louder and louder; and M. + Desormeaux’ voice could be heard, endeavoring to gain a few moments more. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said Maxence, “you cannot hesitate any longer.” + </p> + <p> + And, overcoming his father’s reluctance, he fastened one end of the sheets + around his waist. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to let you down, father,” said he; “and, as + soon as you touch the ground, you must undo the knot. Take care of + the first-story windows; beware of the concierge; and, once in the street, + don’t walk too fast. Make for the Boulevard, where you will be + sooner lost in the crowd.” + </p> + <p> + The knocks had now become violent blows; and it was evident that the door + would soon be broken in, if M. Desormeaux did not make up his mind to open + it. + </p> + <p> + The light was put out. With the assistance of his daughter, M. + Favoral lifted himself upon the window-sill, whilst Maxence held the + sheets with both hands. + </p> + <p> + “I beseech you, Vincent,” repeated Mme. Favoral, “write + to us. We shall be in mortal anxiety until we hear of your safety.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence let the sheets slip slowly: in two seconds M. Favoral stood + on the pavement below. + </p> + <p> + “All right,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The young man drew the sheets back rapidly, and threw them under the bed. + But Mlle. Gilberte remained long enough at the window to recognize her + father’s voice asking the concierge to open the door, and to hear the + heavy gate of the adjoining house closing behind him. + </p> + <p> + “Saved!” she said. + </p> + <p> + It was none too soon. M. Desormeaux had just been compelled to + yield; and the commissary of police was walking in. + </p> + <h2> + IV + </h2> + <p> + The commissaries of police of Paris, as a general thing, are no + simpletons; and, if they are ever taken in, it is because it has suited + them to be taken in. + </p> + <p> + Their modest title covers the most important, perhaps, of magistracies, + almost the only one known to the lower classes; an enormous power, and an + influence so decisive, that the most sensible statesman of the reign of + Louis Philippe ventured once to say, “Give me twenty good + commissaries of police in Paris, and I’ll undertake to suppress any + government: net profit, one hundred millions.” + </p> + <p> + Parisian above all, the commissary has had ample time to study his ground + when he was yet only a peace-officer. The dark side of the most + brilliant lives has no mysteries for him. He has received the + strangest confidences: he has listened to the most astounding + confessions. He knows how low humanity can stoop, and what + aberrations there are in brains apparently the soundest. The work + woman whom her husband beats, and the great lady whom her husband cheats, + have both come to him. He has been sent for by the shop-keeper whom + his wife deceives, and by the millionaire who has been blackmailed. + To his office, as to a lay confessional, all passions fatally lead. + In his presence the dirty linen of two millions of people is washed <i>en + famille</i>. + </p> + <p> + A Paris commissary of police, who after ten years’ practice, could retain + an illusion, believe in something, or be astonished at any thing in the + world, would be but a fool. If he is still capable of some emotion, + he is a good man. + </p> + <p> + The one who had just walked into M. Favoral’s apartment was already past + middle age, colder than ice, and yet kindly, but of that commonplace + kindliness which frightens like the executioner’s politeness at the + scaffold. + </p> + <p> + He required but a single glance of his small but clear eyes to decipher + the physiognomies of all these worthy people standing around the + disordered table. And beckoning to the agents who accompanied him to + stop at the door,—“Monsieur Vincent Favoral?” he + inquired. The cashier’s guests, M. Desormeaux excepted, seemed + stricken with stupor. Each one felt as if he had a share of the + disgrace of this police invasion. The dupes who are sometimes caught + in clandestine “hells” have the same humiliated attitudes. + </p> + <p> + At last, and not without an effort, + </p> + <p> + “M. Favoral is no longer here,” replied M. Chapelain, + the old lawyer. + </p> + <p> + The commissary of police started. Whilst they were discussing with + him through the door, he had perfectly well understood that they were only + trying to gain time; and, if he had not at once burst in the door, it was + solely owing to his respect for M. Desormeaux himself, whom he knew + personally, and still more for his title of head clerk at the Department + of Justice. But his suspicions did not extend beyond the destruction + of a few compromising papers. Whereas, in fact: + </p> + <p> + “You have helped M. Favoral to escape, gentlemen?” said he. + </p> + <p> + No one replied. + </p> + <p> + “Silence means assent,” he added. “Very well: + which way did he get off?” + </p> + <p> + Still no answer. M. Desclavettes would have been glad to add + something to the forty-five thousand francs he had just lost, to be, + together with Mme. Desclavettes, a hundred miles away. + </p> + <p> + “Where is Mme. Favoral?” resumed the commissary, evidently + well informed. “Where are Mlle. Gilberte and M. Maxence + Favoral?” + </p> + <p> + They continued silent. No one in the dining-room knew what might + have taken place in the other room; and a single word might be treason. + </p> + <p> + The commissary then became impatient. + </p> + <p> + “Take up a light,” said he to one of the agents who had + remained at the door, “and follow me. We shall see.” + </p> + <p> + And without a shadow of hesitation, for it seems to be the privilege of + police-agents to be at home everywhere, he crossed the parlor, and reached + Mlle. Gilberte’s room just as she was withdrawing from the window. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, it is that way he escaped!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + He rushed to the window, and remained long enough leaning on his elbows to + thoroughly examine the ground, and understand the situation of the + apartment. + </p> + <p> + “It’s evident,” he said at last, “this window opens on + the courtyard of the next house.” + </p> + <p> + This was said to one of his agents, who bore an unmistakable resemblance + to the servant who had been asking so many questions in the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + “Instead of gathering so much useless information,” he added, + “why did you not post yourself as to the outlets of the house?” + </p> + <p> + He was “sold”; and yet he manifested neither spite nor anger. + He seemed in no wise anxious to run after the fugitive. Upon the + features of Maxence and of Mlle. Gilberte, and more still in Mme. + Favoral’s eyes, he had read that it would be useless for the present. + </p> + <p> + “Let us examine the papers, then,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “My husband’s papers are all in his study,” replied Mme. + Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “Please lead me to it, madame.” + </p> + <p> + The room which M. Favoral called loftily his study was a small room with a + tile floor, white-washed walls, and meanly lighted through a narrow + transom. + </p> + <p> + It was furnished with an old desk, a small wardrobe with grated door, a + few shelves upon which were piled some bandboxes and bundles of old + newspapers, and two or three deal chairs. + </p> + <p> + “Where are the keys?” inquired the commissary of police. + </p> + <p> + “My father always carries them in his pocket, sir,” replied + Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “Then let some one go for a locksmith.” Stronger than + fear, curiosity had drawn all the guests of the cashier of the Mutual + Credit Society, M. Desormeaux, M. Chapelain, M. Desclavettes himself; and, + standing within the door-frame, they followed eagerly every motion of the + commissary, who, pending the arrival of the locksmith, was making a flying + examination of the bundles of papers left exposed upon the desk. + </p> + <p> + After a while, and unable to hold in any longer: + </p> + <p> + “Would it be indiscreet,” timidly inquired the old + bronze-merchant, “to ask the nature of the charges against that poor + Favoral?” + </p> + <p> + “Embezzlement, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And is the amount large?” + </p> + <p> + “Had it been small, I should have said theft. Embezzling + commences only when the sum has reached a round figure.” + </p> + <p> + Annoyed at the sardonic tone of the commissary: + </p> + <p> + “The fact is,” resumed M. Chapelain, “Favoral was our + friend; and, if we could get him out of the scrape, we would all willingly + contribute.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a matter of ten or twelve millions, gentlemen.” + Was it possible? Was it even likely? Could any one imagine so + many millions slipping through the fingers of M. de Thaller’s methodic + cashier? + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir!” exclaimed Mme. Favoral, “if any thing could + relieve my feelings, the enormity of that sum would. My husband was + a man of simple and modest tastes.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “There are certain passions,” he interrupted, “which + nothing betrays externally. Gambling is more terrible than fire. + After a fire, some charred remnants are found. What is there left + after a lost game? Fortunes may be thrown into the vortex of the + bourse, without a trace of them being left.” + </p> + <p> + The unfortunate woman was not convinced. + </p> + <p> + “I could swear, sir,” she protested, “that I knew how my + husband spent every hour of his life.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not swear, madame.” + </p> + <p> + “All our friends will tell you how parsimonious my husband was.” + </p> + <p> + “Here, madame, towards yourself and your children, I have no doubt; + for seeing is believing: but elsewhere—” + </p> + <p> + He was interrupted by the arrival of the locksmith, who, in less than five + minutes, had picked all the locks of the old desk. + </p> + <p> + But in vain did the commissary search all the drawers. He found only + those useless papers which are made relics of by people who have made + order their religious faith,—uninteresting letters, grocers’ and + butchers’ bills running back twenty years. + </p> + <p> + “It is a waste of time to look for any thing here,” he + growled. + </p> + <p> + And in fact he was about to give up his perquisitions, when a bundle + thinner than the rest attracted his attention. He cut the thread + that bound it; and almost at once: + </p> + <p> + “I knew I was right,” he said. And holding out a paper + to Mme. Favoral: + </p> + <p> + “Read, madame, if you please.” + </p> + <p> + It was a bill. She read thus: + </p> + <p> + “Sold to M. Favoral an India Cashmere, fr. 8,500. + <br /> Received payment, FORBE & TOWLER.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it for you, madame,” asked the commissary, “that + this magnificent shawl was bought?” + </p> + <p> + Stupefied with astonishment, the poor woman still refused to admit the + evidence. + </p> + <p> + “Madame de Thaller spends a great deal,” she stammered. + “My husband often made important purchases for her account.” + </p> + <p> + “Often, indeed!” interrupted the commissary of police; “for + here are many other receipted bills,—earrings, sixteen thousand + francs; a bracelet, three thousand francs; a parlor set, a horse, two + velvet dresses. Here is a part, at least, if not the whole, of the + ten millions.” + </p> + <h2> + V + </h2> + <p> + Had the commissary received any information in advance? or was he guided + only by the scent peculiar to men of his profession, and the habit of + suspecting every thing, even that which seems most unlikely? + </p> + <p> + At any rate he expressed himself in a tone of absolute certainty. + </p> + <p> + The agents who had accompanied and assisted him in his researches were + winking at each other, and giggling stupidly. The situation struck + them as rather pleasant. + </p> + <p> + The others, M. Desclavettes, M. Chapelain, and the worthy M. Desormeaux + himself, could have racked their brains in vain to find terms wherein to + express the immensity of their astonishments. Vincent Favoral, their + old friend, paying for cashmeres, diamonds, and parlor sets! Such an + idea could not enter in their minds. For whom could such princely + gifts be intended? For a mistress, for one of those redoubtable + creatures whom fancy represents crouching in the depths of love, like + monsters at the bottom of their caves! + </p> + <p> + But how could any one imagine the methodic cashier of the Mutual Credit + Society carried away by one of those insane passions which knew no reason? + Ruined by gambling, perhaps, but by a woman! + </p> + <p> + Could any one picture him, so homely and so plain here, Rue St. Gilles, at + the head of another establishment, and leading elsewhere in one of the + brilliant quarters of Paris, a reckless life, such as strike terror in the + bosom of quiet families? + </p> + <p> + Could any one understand the same man at once miserly-economical and + madly-prodigal, storming when his wife spent a few cents, and robbing to + supply the expenses of an adventuress, and collecting in the same drawer + the jeweler’s accounts and the butcher’s bills? + </p> + <p> + “It is the climax of absurdity,” murmured good M. Desormeaux. + </p> + <p> + Maxence fairly shook with wrath. Mlle. Gilberte was weeping. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral alone, usually so timid, boldly defended, and with her utmost + energy, the man whose name she bore. That he might have embezzled + millions, she admitted: that he had deceived and betrayed her so + shamefully, that he had made a wretched dupe of her for so many years, + seemed to her insensate, monstrous, impossible. + </p> + <p> + And purple with shame: + </p> + <p> + “Your suspicions would vanish at once, sir,” she said to the + commissary, “if I could but explain to you our mode of life.” + </p> + <p> + Encouraged by his first discovery, he was proceeding more minutely with + his perquisitions, undoing the strings of every bundle. + </p> + <p> + “It is useless, madame,” he answered in that brief tone which + made so much impression upon M. Desclavettes. “You can only + tell me what you know; and you know nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Never, sir, did a man lead a more regular life than M. Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + “In appearance, you are right. Besides, to regulate one’s + disorder is one of the peculiarities of our time. We open credits to + our passions, and we keep account of our infamies by double entry. + We operate with method. We embezzle millions that we may hang + diamonds to the ears of an adventuress; but we are careful, and we keep + the receipted bills.” + </p> + <p> + “But, sir, I have already told you that I never lost sight of my + husband.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Every morning, precisely at nine o’clock, he left home to go to M. + de Thaller’s office.” + </p> + <p> + “The whole neighborhood knows that, madame.” + </p> + <p> + “At half-past five he came home.” + </p> + <p> + “That, also, is a well-known fact.” + </p> + <p> + “After dinner he went out to play a game, but it was his only + amusement; and at eleven o’clock he was always in bed.” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly correct.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, sir, where could M. Favoral have found time to abandon + himself to the excesses of which you accuse him?” + </p> + <p> + Imperceptibly the commissary of police shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Far from me, madame,” he uttered, “to doubt your good + faith. What matters it, moreover, whether your husband spent in this + way or in that way the sums which he is charged with having appropriated? + But what do your objections prove? Simply that M. Favoral was very + skillful, and very much self-possessed. Had he breakfasted when he + left you at nine? No. Pray, then, where did he breakfast? + In a restaurant? Which? Why did he come home only at half-past + five, when his office actually closed at three o’clock? Are you + quite sure that it was to the Café Turc that he went every evening? + Finally, why do not you say anything of the extra work which he always had + to attend to, as he pretended, once or twice a month? Sometimes it + was a loan, sometimes a liquidation, or a settlement of dividends, which + devolved upon him. Did he come home then? No. He told + you that he would dine out, and that it would be more convenient for him + to have a cot put up in his office; and thus you were twenty-four or + forty-eight hours without seeing him. Surely this double existence + must have weighed heavily upon him; but he was forbidden from breaking off + with you, under penalty of being caught the very next day with his hand in + the till. It is the respectability of his official life here which + made the other possible,—that which has absorbed such enormous sums. + The harsher and the closer he were here, the more magnificent he could + show himself elsewhere. His household in the Rue St. Gilles was for + him a certificate of impunity. Seeing him so economical, every one + thought him rich. People who seem to spend nothing are always + trusted. Every privation which he imposed upon you increased his + reputation of austere probity, and raised him farther above suspicion.” + </p> + <p> + Big tears were rolling down Mme. Favoral’s cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Why not tell me the whole truth?” she stammered. + </p> + <p> + “Because I do not know it,” replied the commissary; “because + these are all mere presumptions. I have seen so many instances of + similar calculations!” + </p> + <p> + Then regretting, perhaps, to have said so much, + </p> + <p> + “But I may be mistaken,” he added: “I do not + pretend to be infallible.” He was just then completing a brief + inventory of all the papers found in the old desk. There was nothing + left but to examine the drawer which was used for a cash drawer. He + found in it in gold, notes, and small change, seven hundred and eighteen + francs. + </p> + <p> + Having counted this sum, the commissary offered it to Mme. Favoral, + saying, + </p> + <p> + “This belongs to you madame.” + </p> + <p> + But instinctively she withdrew her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Never!” she said. + </p> + <p> + The commissary went on with a gesture of kindness,—“I + understand your scruples, madame, and yet I must insist. You may + believe me when I tell you that this little sum is fairly and legitimately + yours. You have no personal fortune.” + </p> + <p> + The efforts of the poor woman to keep from bursting into loud sobs were + but too visible. + </p> + <p> + “I possess nothing in the world, sir,” she said in a broken + voice. “My husband alone attended to our business-affairs. + He never spoke to me about them; and I would not have dared to question + him. Alone he disposed of our money. Every Sunday he handed me + the amount which he thought necessary for the expenses of the week, and I + rendered him an account of it. When my children or myself were in + need of any thing, I told him so, and he gave me what he thought proper. + This is Saturday: of what I received last Sunday I have five francs + left: that, is our whole fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Positively the commissary was moved. + </p> + <p> + “You see, then, madame,” he said, “that you cannot + hesitate: you must live.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “Am I not here, sir?” he said. + </p> + <p> + The commissary looked at him keenly, and in a grave tone, + </p> + <p> + “I believe indeed, sir,” he replied, “that you will not + suffer your mother and sister to want for any thing. But resources + are not created in a day. Yours, if I have not been deceived, are + more than limited just now.” + </p> + <p> + And as the young man blushed, and did not answer, he handed the seven + hundred francs to Mlle. Gilberte, saying, + </p> + <p> + “Take this, mademoiselle: your mother permits it.” + His work was done. To place his seals upon M. Favoral’s study was + the work of a moment. + </p> + <p> + Beckoning, then, to his agents to withdraw, and being ready to leave + himself, + </p> + <p> + “Let not the seals cause you any uneasiness, madame,” said the + commissary of police to Mme. Favoral. “Before forty-eight + hours, some one will come to remove these papers, and restore to you the + free use of that room.” + </p> + <p> + He went out; and, as soon as the door had closed behind him, + </p> + <p> + “Well?” exclaimed M. Desormeaux; + </p> + <p> + But no one had any thing to say. The guests of that house where + misfortune had just entered were making haste to leave. The + catastrophe was certainly terrible and unforeseen; but did it not reach + them too? Did they not lose among them more than three hundred + thousand francs? + </p> + <p> + Thus, after a few commonplace protestations, and some of those promises + which mean nothing, they withdrew; and, as they were going down the + stairs, + </p> + <p> + “The commissary took Vincent’s escape too easy,” remarked M. + Desormeaux. “He must know some way to catch him again.” + </p> + <h2> + VI + </h2> + <p> + At last Mme. Favoral found herself alone with her children and free to + give herself up to the most frightful despair. + </p> + <p> + She dropped heavily upon a seat; and, drawing to her bosom Maxence and + Gilberte, + </p> + <p> + “O my children!” she sobbed, covering them with her kisses and + her tears,—“my children, we are most unfortunate.” + </p> + <p> + Not less distressed than herself, they strove, nevertheless, to mitigate + her anguish, to inspire her with sufficient courage to bear this crushing + trial; and kneeling at her feet, and kissing her hands, + </p> + <p> + “Are we not with you still, mother?” they kept repeating. + </p> + <p> + But she seemed not to hear them. + </p> + <p> + “It is not for myself that I weep,” she went on. “I! + what had I still to wait or hope for in life? Whilst you, Maxence, + you, my poor Gilberte!—If, at least, I could feel myself free from + blame! But no. It is my weakness and my want of courage that + have brought on this catastrophe. I shrank from the struggle. + I purchased my domestic peace at the cost of your future in the world. + I forgot that a mother has sacred duties towards her children.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral was at this time a woman of some forty-three years, with + delicate and mild features, a countenance overflowing with kindness, and + whose whole being exhaled, as it were, an exquisite perfume of <i>noblesse</i> + and distinction. + </p> + <p> + Happy, she might have been beautiful still,—of that autumnal beauty + whose maturity has the splendors of the luscious fruits of the later + season. + </p> + <p> + But she had suffered so much! The livid paleness of her complexion, + the rigid fold of her lips, the nervous shudders that shook her frame, + revealed a whole existence of bitter deceptions, of exhausting struggles, + and of proudly concealed humiliations. + </p> + <p> + And yet every thing seemed to smile upon her at the outset of life. + </p> + <p> + She was an only daughter; and her parents, wealthy silk-merchants, had + brought her up like the daughter of an archduchess desired to marry some + sovereign prince. + </p> + <p> + But at fifteen she had lost her mother. Her father, soon tired of + his lonely fireside, commenced to seek away from home some diversion from + his sorrow. + </p> + <p> + He was a man of weak mind,—one of those marked in advance to play + the part of eternal dupes. Having money, he found many friends. + Having once tasted the cup of facile pleasures, he yielded readily to its + intoxication. Suppers, cards, amusements, absorbed his time, to the + utter detriment of his business. And, eighteen months after his + wife’s death, he had already spent a large portion of his fortune, when he + fell into the hands of an adventuress, whom, without regard for his + daughter, he audaciously brought beneath his own roof. + </p> + <p> + In provincial cities, where everybody knows everybody else, such infamies + are almost impossible. They are not quite so rare in Paris, where + one is, so to speak, lost in the crowd, and where the restraining power of + the neighbor’s opinion is lacking. + </p> + <p> + For two years the poor girl, condemned to bear this illegitimate + stepmother, endured nameless sufferings. + </p> + <p> + She had just completed her eighteenth year, when, one evening, her father + took her aside. + </p> + <p> + “I have made up my mind to marry again,” he said; “but I + wish first to provide you with a husband. I have looked for one, and + found him. He is not very brilliant perhaps; but he is, it seems, a + good, hard-working, economical fellow, who’ll make his way in the world. + I had dreamed of something better for you; but times are hard, trade is + dull: in short, having only a dowry of twenty thousand francs to + give you, I have no right to be very particular. To-morrow I’ll + bring you my candidate.” + </p> + <p> + And, sure enough, the next day that excellent father introduced M. Vincent + Favoral to his daughter. + </p> + <p> + She was not pleased with him; but she could hardly have said that she was + displeased. + </p> + <p> + He was, at the age of twenty-five, which he had just reached, a man so + utterly lacking in individuality, that he could scarcely have excited any + feeling either of sympathy or affection. + </p> + <p> + Suitably dressed, he seemed timid and awkward, reserved, quite diffident, + and of mediocre intelligence. He confessed to have received a most + imperfect education, and declared himself quite ignorant of life. He + had scarcely any means outside his profession. He was at this time + chief accountant in a large factory of the Faubourg St. Antoine, with a + salary of four thousand Francs a year. + </p> + <p> + The young girl did not hesitate a moment. Any thing appeared to her + preferable to the contact of a woman whom she abhorred and despised. + </p> + <p> + She gave her consent; and, twenty days after the first interview, she had + become Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Alas! six weeks had not elapsed, before she knew that she had but + exchanged her wretched fate for a more wretched one still. + </p> + <p> + Not that her husband was in any way unkind to her (he dared not, as yet); + but he had revealed himself enough to enable her to judge him. He + was one of those formidably selfish men who wither every thing around + them, like those trees within the shadow of which nothing can grow. + His coldness concealed a stupid obstinacy; his mildness, an iron will. + </p> + <p> + If he had married, ‘twas because he thought a wife a necessary adjunct, + because he desired a home wherein to command, because, above all, he had + been seduced by the dowry of twenty thousand francs. + </p> + <p> + For the man had one passion,—money. Under his placid + countenance revolved thoughts of the most burning covetousness. He + wished to be rich. + </p> + <p> + Now, as he had no illusion whatever upon his own merits, as he knew + himself to be perfectly incapable of any of those daring conceptions which + lead to rapid fortune, as he was in no wise enterprising, he conceived but + one means to achieve wealth, that is, to save, to economize, to stint + himself, to pile penny upon penny. + </p> + <p> + His profession of accountant had furnished him with a number of instances + of the financial power of the penny daily saved, and invested so as to + yield its maximum of interest. + </p> + <p> + If ever his blue eye became animated, it was when he calculated what would + be at the present time the capital produced by a simple penny placed at + five per cent interest the year of the birth of our Saviour. + </p> + <p> + For him this was sublime. He conceived nothing beyond. One + penny! He wished, he said, he could have lived eighteen hundred + years, to follow the evolutions of that penny, to see it grow tenfold, a + hundred-fold, produce, swell, enlarge, and become, after centuries, + millions and hundreds of millions. + </p> + <p> + In spite of all, he had, during the early months of his marriage, allowed + his wife to have a young servant. He gave her from time to time, a + five-franc-piece, and took her to the country on Sundays. + </p> + <p> + This was the honeymoon; and, as he declared himself, this life of + prodigalities could not last. + </p> + <p> + Under a futile pretext, the little servant was dismissed. He + tightened the strings of his purse. The Sunday excursions were + suppressed. + </p> + <p> + To mere economy succeeded the niggardly parsimony which counts the grains + of salt in the <i>pot-au-feu</i>, which weighs the soap for the washing, + and measures the evening’s allowance of candle. + </p> + <p> + Gradually the accountant took the habit of treating his young wife like a + servant, whose honesty is suspected; or like a child, whose + thoughtlessness is to be feared. Every morning he handed her the + money for the expenses of the day; and every evening he expressed his + surprise that she had not made better use of it. He accused her of + allowing herself to be grossly cheated, or even to be in collusion with + the dealers. He charged her with being foolishly extravagant; which + fact, however, he added, did not surprise him much on the part of the + daughter of a man who had dissipated a large fortune. + </p> + <p> + To cap the climax, Vincent Favoral was on the worst possible terms with + his father-in-law. Of the twenty thousand francs of his wife’s + dowry, twelve thousand only had been paid, and it was in vain that he + clamored for the balance. The silk-merchant’s business had become + unprofitable; he was on the verge of bankruptcy. The eight thousand + francs seemed in imminent danger. + </p> + <p> + His wife alone he held responsible for this deception. He repeated + to her constantly that she had connived with her father to “take him + in,” to fleece him, to ruin him. + </p> + <p> + What an existence! Certainly, had the unhappy woman known where to + find a refuge, she would have fled from that home where each of her days + was but a protracted torture. But where could she go? Of whom + could she beg a shelter? + </p> + <p> + She had terrible temptations at this time, when she was not yet twenty, + and they called her the beautiful Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Perhaps she would have succumbed, when she discovered that she was about + to become a mother. One year, day for day, after her marriage, she + gave birth to a son, who received the name of Maxence. + </p> + <p> + The accountant was but indifferently pleased at the coming of this son. + It was, above all, a cause of expense. He had been compelled to give + some thirty francs to a nurse, and almost twice as much for the baby’s + clothes. Then a child breaks up the regularity of one’s habits; and + he, as he affirmed, was attached to his as much as to life itself. + And now he saw his household disturbed, the hours of his meals altered, + his own importance reduced, his authority even ignored. + </p> + <p> + But what mattered now to his young wife the ill-humor which he no longer + took the trouble to conceal? Mother, she defied her tyrant. + </p> + <p> + Now, at least, she had in this world a being upon whom she could lavish + all her caresses so brutally repelled. There existed a soul within + which she reigned supreme. What troubles would not a smile of her + son have made her forget? + </p> + <p> + With the admirable instinct of an egotist, M. Favoral understood so well + what passed in the mind of his wife, that he dared not complain too much + of what the little fellow cost. He made up his mind bravely; and + when four years later, his daughter Gilberte was born, instead of + lamenting: + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” said he: “God blesses large families.” + </p> + <h2> + VII + </h2> + <p> + But already, at this time, M. Vincent Favoral’s situation had been + singularly modified. + </p> + <p> + The revolution of 1848 had just taken place. The factory in the + Faubourg St. Antoine, where he was employed, had been compelled to close + its doors. + </p> + <p> + One evening, as he came home at the usual hour, he announced that he had + been discharged. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral shuddered at the thought of what her husband might be, + without work, and deprived of his salary. + </p> + <p> + “What is to become of us?” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + He shrugged his shoulders. Visibly he was much excited. His + cheeks were flushed; his eyes sparkled. + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” he said: “we shan’t starve for all that.” + And, as his wife was gazing at him in astonishment: + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he went on, “what are you looking at? It + is so: I know many a one who affects to live on his income, and who + are not as well off as we are.” + </p> + <p> + It was, for over six years since he was married, the first time that he + spoke of his business otherwise than to groan and complain, to accuse + fate, and curse the high price of living. The very day before, he + had declared himself ruined by the purchase of a pair of shoes for + Maxence. The change was so sudden and so great, that she hardly knew + what to think, and wondered if grief at the loss of his situation had not + somewhat disturbed his mind. + </p> + <p> + “Such are women,” he went on with a giggle. “Results + astonish them, because they know nothing of the means used to bring them + about. Am I a fool, then? Would I impose upon myself + privations of all sorts, if it were to accomplish nothing? Parbleu! + I love fine living too, I do, and good dinners at the restaurant, and the + theatre, and the nice little excursions in the country. But I want + to be rich. At the price of all the comforts which I have not had, I + have saved a capital, the income of which will support us all. Eh, + eh! That’s the power of the little penny put out to fatten!” + </p> + <p> + As she went to bed that night, Mme. Favoral felt more happy than she had + done since her mother’s death. She almost forgave her husband his + sordid parsimony, and the humiliations he had heaped upon her. + </p> + <p> + “Well, be it so,” she thought. “I shall have lived + miserably, I shall have endured nameless sufferings; but my children shall + be rich, their life shall be easy and pleasant.” + </p> + <p> + The next day M. Favoral’s excitement had completely abated. + Manifestly he regretted his confidences. + </p> + <p> + “You must not think on that account that you can waste and pillage + every thing,” he declared rudely. “Besides, I have + greatly exaggerated.” + </p> + <p> + And he started in search of a situation. + </p> + <p> + To find one was likely to be difficult. Times of revolution are not + exactly propitious to industry. Whilst the parties discussed in the + Chamber, there were on the street twenty thousand clerks, who, every + morning as they rose, wondered where they would dine that day. + </p> + <p> + For want of any thing better, Vincent Favoral undertook to keep books in + various places,—an hour here, an hour there, twice a week in one + house, four times in another. + </p> + <p> + In this way he earned as much and more than he did at the factory; but the + business did not suit him. + </p> + <p> + What he liked was the office from which one does not stir, the + stove-heated atmosphere, the elbow-worn desk, the leather-cushioned chair, + the black alpaca sleeves over the coat. The idea that he should on + one and the same day have to do with five or six different houses, and be + compelled to walk an hour, to go and work another hour at the other end of + Paris, fairly irritated him. He found himself out of his reckoning, + like a horse who has turned a mill for ten years; if he is made to trot + straight before him. + </p> + <p> + So, one morning, he gave up the whole thing, swearing that he would rather + remain idle until he could find a place suited to his taste and his + convenience; and, in the mean time, all they would have to do would be to + put a little less butter in the soup, and a little more water in the wine. + </p> + <p> + He went out, nevertheless, and remained until dinner-time. And he + did the same the next and the following days. + </p> + <p> + He started off the moment he had swallowed the last mouthful of his + breakfast, came home at six o’clock, dined in haste, and disappeared + again, not to return until about midnight. He had hours of delirious + joy, and moments of frightful discouragement. Sometimes he seemed + horribly uneasy. + </p> + <p> + “What can he be doing?” thought Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + She ventured to ask him the question one morning, when he was in fine + humor. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he answered, “am I not the master? I am + operating at the bourse, that’s all!” + </p> + <p> + He could hardly have owned to any thing that would have frightened the + poor woman as much. + </p> + <p> + “Are you not afraid,” she objected, “to lose all we have + so painfully accumulated? We have children—” + </p> + <p> + He did not allow her to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “Do you take me for a child?” he exclaimed; “or do I + look to you like a man so easy to be duped? Mind to economize in + your household expenses, and don’t meddle with my business.” + </p> + <p> + And he continued. And he must have been lucky in his operations; for + he had never been so pleasant at home. All his ways had changed. + He had had clothes made at a first-class tailor’s, and was evidently + trying to look elegant. He gave up his pipe, and smoked only cigars. + He got tired of giving every morning the money for the house, and took the + habit of handing it to his wife every week, on Sunday. A mark of + vast confidence, as he observed to her. And so, the first time: + </p> + <p> + “Be careful,” he said, “that you don’t find yourself + penniless before Thursday.” + </p> + <p> + He became also more communicative. Often during the dinner, he would + tell what he had heard during the day, anecdotes, gossip. He + enumerated the persons with whom he had spoken. He named a number of + people whom he called his friends, and whose names Mme. Favoral carefully + stored away in her memory. + </p> + <p> + There was one especially, who seemed to inspire him with a profound + respect, a boundless admiration, and of whom he never tired of talking. + He was, said he, a man of his age,—M. de Thaller, the Baron de + Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “This one,” he kept repeating, “is really mad: he + is rich, he has ideas, he’ll go far. It would be a great piece of + luck if I could get him to do something for me!” + </p> + <p> + Until at last one day: + </p> + <p> + “Your parents were very rich once?” he asked his wife. + </p> + <p> + “I have heard it said,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “They spent a good deal of money, did they not? They had + friends: they gave dinner-parties.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, they received a good deal of company.” + </p> + <p> + “You remember that time?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely I do.” + </p> + <p> + “So that if I should take a fancy to receive some one here, some one + of note, you would know how to do things properly?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so.” + </p> + <p> + He remained silent for a moment, like a man who thinks before taking an + important decision, and then: + </p> + <p> + “I wish to invite a few persons to dinner,” he said. She + could scarcely believe her ears. He had never received at his table + any one but a fellow-clerk at the factory, named Desclavettes, who had + just married the daughter of a dealer in bronzes, and succeeded to his + business. + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” exclaimed Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “So it is. The question is now, how much would a first-class + dinner cost, the best of every thing?” + </p> + <p> + “That depends upon the number of guests.” + </p> + <p> + “Say three or four persons.” + </p> + <p> + The poor woman set herself to figuring diligently for some time; and then + timidly, for the sum seemed formidable to her: + </p> + <p> + “I think,” she began, “that with a hundred francs—” + </p> + <p> + Her husband commenced whistling. + </p> + <p> + “You’ll need that for the wines alone;” he interrupted. + “Do you take me for a fool? But here, don’t let us go into + figures. Do as your parents did when they did their best; and, if + it’s well, I shall not complain of the expense. Take a good cook, + hire a waiter who understands his business well.” + </p> + <p> + She was utterly confounded; and yet she was not at the end of her + surprises. + </p> + <p> + Soon M. Favoral declared that their table-ware was not suitable, and that + he must buy a new set. He discovered a hundred purchases to be made, + and swore that he would make them. He even hesitated a moment about + renewing the parlor furniture, although it was in tolerably good condition + still, and was a present from his father-in-law. + </p> + <p> + And, having finished his inventory: + </p> + <p> + “And you,” he asked his wife: “what dress will you + wear?” + </p> + <p> + “I have my black silk dress—” + </p> + <p> + He stopped her. + </p> + <p> + “Which means that you have none at all,” he said. + “Very well. You must go this very day and get yourself one,—a + very handsome, a magnificent one; and you’ll send it to be made to a + fashionable dressmaker. And at the same time you had better get some + little suits for Maxence and Gilberte. Here are a thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + Completely bewildered: + </p> + <p> + “Who in the world are you going to invite, then?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “The Baron and the Baroness de Thaller,” he replied with an + emphasis full of conviction. “So try and distinguish yourself. + Our fortune is at stake.” + </p> + <p> + That this dinner was a matter of considerable import, Mme. Favoral could + not doubt when she saw her husband’s fabulous liberality continue without + flinching for a number of days. + </p> + <p> + Ten times of an afternoon he would come home to tell his wife the name of + some dish that had been mentioned before him, or to consult her on the + subject of some exotic viand he had just noticed in some shop-window. + Daily he brought home wines of the most fantastic vintages,—those + wines which dealers manufacture for the special use of verdant fools, and + which they sell in odd-shaped bottles previously overlaid with secular + dust and cobwebs. + </p> + <p> + He subjected to a protracted cross-examination the cook whom Mme. Favoral + had engaged, and demanded that she should enumerate the houses where she + had cooked. He absolutely required the man who was to wait at the + table to exhibit the dress-coat he was to wear. + </p> + <p> + The great day having come, he did not stir from the house, going and + coming from the kitchen to the dining-room, uneasy, agitated, unable to + stay in one place. He breathed only when he had seen the table set + and loaded with the new china he had purchased and the magnificent silver + he had gone to hire in person. And when his young wife made her + appearance, looking lovely in her new dress, and leading by the hands the + two children, Maxence and Gilberte, in their new suits: + </p> + <p> + “That’s perfect,” he exclaimed, highly delighted. + “Nothing could be better. Now, let our four guests come!” + </p> + <p> + They arrived a few minutes before seven, in two carriages, the + magnificence of which astonished the Rue St. Gilles. + </p> + <p> + And, the presentations over, Vincent Favoral had at last the ineffable + satisfaction to see seated at his table the Baron and Baroness de Thaller, + M. Saint Pavin, who called himself a financial editor, and M. Jules + Jottras, of the house of Jottras & Brother. + </p> + <p> + It was with an eager curiosity that Mme. Favoral observed these people + whom her husband called his friends, and whom she saw herself for the + first time. + </p> + <p> + M. de Thaller, who could not then have been much over thirty, was already + a man without any particular age. + </p> + <p> + Cold, stiff, aping evidently the English style, he expressed himself in + brief sentences, and with a strong foreign accent. Nothing to + surprise on his countenance. He had the forehead prominent, the eyes + of a dull blue, and the nose very thin. His scanty hair was spread + over the top of his head with labored symmetry; and his red, thick, and + carefully-trimmed whiskers seemed to engross much of his attention. + </p> + <p> + M. Saint Pavin had not the same stiff manner. Careless in his dress, + he lacked breeding. He was a robust fellow, dark and bearded, with + thick lips, the eye bright and prominent, spreading upon the table-cloth + broad hands ornamented at the joints with small tufts of hair, speaking + loud, laughing noisily, eating much and drinking more. + </p> + <p> + By the side of him, M. Jules Jottras, although looking like a + fashion-plate, did not show to much advantage. Delicate, blonde, + sallow, almost beardless, M. Jottras distinguished himself only by a sort + of unconscious impudence, a harmless cynicism, and a sort of spasmodic + giggle, that shook the eye-glasses which he wore stuck over his nose. + </p> + <p> + But it was above all Mme. de Thaller who excited Mme. Favoral’s + apprehensions. + </p> + <p> + Dressed with a magnificence of at least questionable taste, very much <i>decolletee</i>, + wearing large diamonds at her ears, and rings on all her fingers, the + young baroness was insolently handsome, of a beauty sensuous even to + coarseness. With hair of a bluish black, twisted over the neck in + heavy ringlets, she had skin of a pearly whiteness, lips redder than + blood, and great eyes that threw flames from beneath their long, curved + lashes. It was the poetry of flesh; and one could not help admiring. + Did she speak, however, or make a gesture, all admiration vanished. + The voice was vulgar, the motion common. Did M. Jottras venture upon + a double-entendre, she would throw herself back upon her chair to laugh, + stretching her neck, and thrusting her throat forward. + </p> + <p> + Wholly absorbed in the care of his guests, M. Favoral remarked nothing. + He only thought of loading the plates, and filling the glasses, + complaining that they ate and drank nothing, asking anxiously if the + cooking was not good, if the wines were bad, and almost driving the waiter + out of his wits with questions and suggestions. + </p> + <p> + It is a fact, that neither M. de Thaller nor M. Jottras had much appetite. + But M. Saint Pavin officiated for all; and the sole task of keeping up + with him caused M. Favoral to become visibly animated. + </p> + <p> + His cheeks were much flushed, when, having passed the champagne all + around, he raised his froth-tipped glass, exclaiming: + </p> + <p> + “I drink to the success of the business.” + </p> + <p> + “To the success of the business,” echoed the others, touching + his glass. + </p> + <p> + And a few moments later they passed into the parlor to take coffee. + </p> + <p> + This toast had caused Mme. Favoral no little uneasiness. But she + found it impossible to ask a single question; Mme. de Thaller dragging her + almost by force to a seat by her side on the sofa, pretending that two + women always have secrets to exchange, even when they see each other for + the first time. + </p> + <p> + The young baroness was fully <i>au fait</i> in matters of bonnets and + dresses; and it was with giddy volubility that she asked Mme. Favoral the + names of her milliner and her dressmaker, and to what jeweler she + intrusted her diamonds to be reset. + </p> + <p> + This looked so much like a joke, that the poor housekeeper of the Rue St. + Gilles could not help smiling whilst answering that she had no dressmaker, + and that, having no diamonds, she had no possible use for the services of + a jeweler. + </p> + <p> + The other declared she could not get over it. No diamonds! + That was a misfortune exceeding all. And quick she seized the + opportunity charitably to enumerate the parures in her jewel-case, and + laces in her drawers, and the dresses in her wardrobes. In the first + place, it would have been impossible for her, she swore, to live with a + husband either miserly or poor. Hers had just presented her with a + lovely coupe, lined with yellow satin, a perfect bijou. And she made + good use of it too; for she loved to go about. She spent her days + shopping, or riding in the Bois. Every evening she had the choice of + the theatre or a ball, often both. The genre theatres were those she + preferred. To be sure, the opera and the Italiens were more stylish; + but she could not help gaping there. + </p> + <p> + Then she wished to kiss the children; and Gilberte and Maxence had to be + brought in. She adored children, she vowed: it was her + weakness, her passion. She had herself a little girl, eighteen + months old, called Cesarine, to whom she was devoted; and certainly she + would have brought her, had she not feared she would have been in the way. + </p> + <p> + All this verbiage sounded like a confused murmur to Mme. Favoral’s ears. + “Yes, no,” she answered, hardly knowing to what she did + answer. + </p> + <p> + Her head heavy with a vague apprehension, it required her utmost attention + to observe her husband and his guests. + </p> + <p> + Standing by the mantel-piece, smoking their cigars, they conversed with + considerable animation, but not loud enough to enable her to hear all they + said. It was only when M. Saint Pavin spoke that she understood that + they were still discussing the “business;” for he spoke of + articles to publish, stocks to sell, dividends to distribute, sure profits + to reap. + </p> + <p> + They all, at any rate, seemed to agree perfectly; and at a certain moment + she saw her husband and M. de Thaller strike each other’s hand, as people + do who exchange a pledge. + </p> + <p> + Eleven o’clock struck. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral was insisting to make his guests accept a cup of tea or a glass + of punch; but M. de Thaller declared that he had some work to do, and + that, his carriage having come, he must go. + </p> + <p> + And go he did, taking with him the baroness, followed by M. Saint Pavin + and M. Jottras. And when, the door having closed upon them, M. + Favoral found himself alone with his wife, + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he exclaimed, swelling with gratified vanity, “what + do you think of our friends?” + </p> + <p> + “They surprised me,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + He fairly jumped at that word. + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know why?” + </p> + <p> + Then, timidly, and with infinite precautions, she commenced explaining + that M. de Thaller’s face inspired her with no confidence; that M. Jottras + had seemed to her a very impudent personage; that M. Saint Pavin appeared + low and vulgar; and that, finally, the young baroness had given her of + herself the most singular idea. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral refused to hear more. + </p> + <p> + “It’s because you have never seen people of the best society,” + he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me. Formerly, during my mother’s life—” + </p> + <p> + “Eh! Your mother never received but shop-keepers.” + </p> + <p> + The poor woman dropped her head. + </p> + <p> + “I beg of you, Vincent,” she insisted, “before doing any + thing with these new friends, think well, consult—” + </p> + <p> + He burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Are you not afraid that they will cheat me?” he said,—“people + ten times as rich as we are. Here, don’t let us speak of it any + more, and let us go to bed. You’ll see what this dinner will bring + us, and whether I ever have reason to regret the money we have spent.” + </p> + <h2> + VIII + </h2> + <p> + When, on the morning after this dinner, which was to form an era in her + life, Mme. Favoral woke up, her husband was already up, pencil in hand, + and busy figuring. + </p> + <p> + The charm had vanished with the fumes of the champagne; and the clouds of + the worst days were gathering upon his brow. + </p> + <p> + Noticing that his wife was looking at him, + </p> + <p> + “It’s expensive work,” he said in a bluff tone, “to set + a business going; and it wouldn’t do to commence over again every day.” + </p> + <p> + To hear him speak, one would have thought that Mme. Favoral alone, by dint + of hard begging, had persuaded him into that expense which he now seemed + to regret so much. She quietly called his attention to the fact, + reminding him that, far from urging, she had endeavored to hold him back; + repeating that she augured ill of that business over which he was so + enthusiastic, and that, if he would believe her, he would not venture. + </p> + <p> + “Do you even know what the project is?” he interrupted rudely. + </p> + <p> + “You have not told me.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then: leave me in peace with your presentiments. + You dislike my friends; and I saw very well how you treated Mme. de + Thaller. But I am the master; and what I have decided shall be. + Besides, I have signed. Once for all, I forbid you ever speaking to + me again on that subject.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon, having dressed himself with much care, he started off, saying + that he was expected at breakfast by Saint Pavin, the financial editor, + and by M. Jottras, of the house of Jottras & Brother. + </p> + <p> + A shrewd woman would not have given it up so easy, and, in the end, would + probably have mastered the despot, whose intellect was far from brilliant. + But Mme. Favoral was too proud to be shrewd; and besides, the springs of + her will had been broken by the successive oppression of an odious + stepmother and a brutal master. Her abdication of all was complete. + Wounded, she kept the secret of her wound, hung her head, and said + nothing. + </p> + <p> + She did not, therefore, venture a single allusion; and nearly a week + elapsed, during which the names of her late guests were not once + mentioned. + </p> + <p> + It was through a newspaper, which M. Favoral had forgotten in the parlor, + that she learned that the Baron de Thaller had just founded a new stock + company, the Mutual Credit Society, with a capital of several millions. + </p> + <p> + Below the advertisement, which was printed in enormous letters, came a + long article, in which it was demonstrated that the new company was, at + the same time, a patriotic undertaking and an institution of credit of the + first class; that it supplied a great public want; that it would be of + inestimable benefit to industry; that its profits were assured; and that + to subscribe to its stock was simply to draw short bills upon fortune. + </p> + <p> + Already somewhat re-assured by the reading of this article, Mme. Favoral + became quite so when she read the names of the board of directors. + Nearly all were titled, and decorated with many foreign orders; and the + remainder were bankers, office-holders, and even some ex-ministers. + </p> + <p> + “I must have been mistaken,” she thought, yielding + unconsciously to the influence of printed evidence. + </p> + <p> + And no objection occurred to her, when, a few days later, her husband told + her, + </p> + <p> + “I have the situation I wanted. I am head cashier of the + company of which M. de Thaller is manager.” + </p> + <p> + That was all. Of the nature of this society, of the advantages which + it offered him, not one word. + </p> + <p> + Only by the way in which he expressed himself did Mme. Favoral judge that + he must have been well treated; and he further confirmed her in that + opinion by granting her, of his own accord, a few additional francs for + the daily expenses of the house. + </p> + <p> + “We must,” he declared on this memorable occasion, “do + honor to our social position, whatever it may cost.” + </p> + <p> + For the first time in his life, he seemed heedful of public opinion. + He recommended his wife to be careful of her dress and of that of the + children, and re-engaged a servant. He expressed the wish of + enlarging their circle of acquaintances, and inaugurated his Saturday + dinners, to which came assiduously, M. and Mme. Desclavettes, M. Chapelain + the attorney, the old man Desormeaux, and a few others. + </p> + <p> + As to himself he gradually settled down into those habits from which he + was nevermore to depart, and the chronometric regularity of which had + secured him the nickname of Old Punctuality, of which he was proud. + </p> + <p> + In all other respects never did a man, to such a degree, become so utterly + indifferent to his wife and children. His house was for him but a + mere hotel, where he slept, and took his evening meal. He never + thought of questioning his wife as to the use of her time, and what she + did in his absence. Provided she did not ask him for money, and was + there when he came home, he was satisfied. + </p> + <p> + Many women, at Mme. Favoral’s age, might have made a strange use of that + insulting indifference and of that absolute freedom. + </p> + <p> + If she did avail herself of it, it was solely to follow one of those + inspirations which can only spring in a mother’s heart. + </p> + <p> + The increase in the budget of the household was relatively large, but so + nicely calculated, that she had not one cent more that she could call her + own. + </p> + <p> + With the most intense sorrow, she thought that her children might have to + endure the humiliating privations which had made her own life wretched. + They were too young yet to suffer from the paternal parsimony; but they + would grow; their desires would develop; and it would be impossible for + her to grant them the most innocent satisfactions. + </p> + <p> + Whilst turning over and over in her mind this distressing thought, she + remembered a friend of her mother’s, who kept, in the Rue St. Denis, a + large establishment for the sale of hosiery and woollen goods. + There, perhaps, lay the solution of the problem. She called to see + the worthy woman, and, without even needing to confess the whole truth to + her, she obtained sundry pieces of work, ill paid as a matter of course, + but which, by dint of close application, might be made to yield from eight + to twelve francs a week. + </p> + <p> + From this time she never lost a minute, concealing her work as if it were + an evil act. + </p> + <p> + She knew her husband well enough to feel certain that he would break out, + and swear that he spent money enough to enable his wife to live without + being reduced to making a work woman of herself. + </p> + <p> + But what joy, the day when she hid way down at the bottom of a drawer the + first twenty-franc-piece she had earned, a beautiful gold-piece, which + belonged to her without contest, and which she might spend as she pleased, + without having to render any account to any one! + </p> + <p> + And with what pride, from week to week, she saw her little treasure swell, + despite the drafts she made upon it, sometimes to buy a toy for Maxence, + sometimes to add a few ribbons or trinkets to Gilberte’s toilet! + </p> + <p> + This was the happiest time of her life, a halt in that painful journey + through which she had been dragging herself for so many years. + Between her two children, the hours flew light and rapid as so many + seconds. If all the hopes of the young girl and of the woman had + withered before they had blossomed, the mother’s joys at least should not + fail her. Because, whilst the present sufficed to her modest + ambition, the future had ceased to cause her any uneasiness. + </p> + <p> + No reference had ever been made, between herself and her husband, to that + famous dinner-party: he never spoke to her of the Mutual Credit + Society; but now and then he allowed some words or exclamations to escape, + which she carefully recorded, and which betrayed a prosperous state of + affairs. + </p> + <p> + “That Thaller is a tough fellow!” he would exclaim, “and + he has the most infernal luck!” + </p> + <p> + And at other times, + </p> + <p> + “Two or three more operations like the one we have just successfully + wound up, and we can shut up shop!” + </p> + <p> + From all this, what could she conclude, if not that he was marching with + rapid strides towards that fortune, the object of all his ambition? + </p> + <p> + Already in the neighborhood he had that reputation to be very rich, which + is the beginning of riches itself. He was admired for keeping his + house with such rigid economy; for a man is always esteemed who has money, + and does not spend it. + </p> + <p> + “He is not the man ever to squander what he has,” the + neighbors repeated. + </p> + <p> + The persons whom he received on Saturdays believed him more than + comfortably off. When M. Desclavettes and M. Chapelain had + complained to their hearts’ contents, the one of the shop, the other of + his office, they never failed to add, + </p> + <p> + “You laugh at us, because you are engaged in large operations, where + people make as much money as they like.” + </p> + <p> + They seemed to hold his financial capacities in high estimation. + They consulted him, and followed his advice. + </p> + <p> + M. Desormeaux was wont to say, + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he knows what he is about.” + </p> + <p> + And Mme. Favoral tried to persuade herself, that, in this respect at + least, her husband was a remarkable man. She attributed his silence + and his distractions to the grave cares that filled his mind. In the + same manner that he had once announced to her that they had enough to live + on, she expected him, some fine morning, to tell her that he was a + millionaire. + </p> + <h2> + IX + </h2> + <p> + But the respite granted by fate to Mme. Favoral was drawing to an end: + her trials were about to return more poignant than ever, occasioned, this + time, by her children, hitherto her whole happiness and her only + consolation. + </p> + <p> + Maxence was nearly twelve. He was a good little fellow, intelligent, + studious at times, but thoughtless in the extreme, and of a turbulence + which nothing could tame. + </p> + <p> + At the Massin School, where he had been sent, he made his teachers’ hair + turn white; and not a week went by that he did not signalize himself by + some fresh misdeed. + </p> + <p> + A father like any other would have paid but slight attention to the pranks + of a schoolboy, who, after all, ranked among the first of his class, and + of whom the teachers themselves, whilst complaining, said, + </p> + <p> + “Bash! What matters it, since the heart is sound and the mind + sane?” + </p> + <p> + But M. Favoral took every thing tragically. If Maxence was kept in, + or otherwise punished, he pretended that it reflected upon himself, and + that his son was disgracing him. + </p> + <p> + If a report came home with this remark, “execrable conduct,” + he fell into the most violent passion, and seemed to lose all control of + himself. + </p> + <p> + “At your age,” he would shout to the terrified boy, “I + was working in a factory, and earning my livelihood. Do you suppose + that I will not tire of making sacrifices to procure you the advantages of + an education which I lacked myself? Beware. Havre is not far + off; and cabin-boys are always in demand there.” + </p> + <p> + If, at least, he had confined himself to these admonitions, which, by + their very exaggeration, failed in their object! But he favored + mechanical appliances as a necessary means of sufficiently impressing + reprimands upon the minds of young people; and therefore, seizing his + cane, he would beat poor Maxence most unmercifully, the more so that the + boy, filled with pride, would have allowed himself to be chopped to pieces + rather than utter a cry, or shed a tear. + </p> + <p> + The first time that Mme. Favoral saw her son struck, she was seized with + one of those wild fits of anger which do not reason, and never forgive. + To be beaten herself would have seemed to her less atrocious, less + humiliating. Hitherto she had found it impossible to love a husband + such as hers: henceforth, she took him in utter aversion: he + inspired her with horror. She looked upon her son as a martyr for + whom she could hardly ever do enough. + </p> + <p> + And so, after these harrowing scenes, she would press him to her heart in + the most passionate embrace; she would cover with her kisses the traces of + the blows; and she would strive, by the most delirious caresses, to make + him forget the paternal brutalities. With him she sobbed. Like + him, she would shake her clinched fists in the vacant space; exclaiming, + “Coward, tyrant, assassin!” The little Gilberte mingled + her tears with theirs; and, pressed against each other, they deplored + their destiny, cursing the common enemy, the head of the family. + </p> + <p> + Thus did Maxence spend his boyhood between equally fatal exaggerations, + between the revolting brutalities of his father, and the dangerous + caresses of his mother; the one depriving him of every thing, the other + refusing him nothing. + </p> + <p> + For Mme. Favoral had now found a use for her humble savings. + </p> + <p> + If the idea had never come to the cashier of the Mutual Credit Society to + put a few sous in his son’s pocket, the too weak mother would have + suggested to him the want of money in order to have the pleasure of + gratifying it. + </p> + <p> + She who had suffered so many humiliations in her life, she could not bear + the idea of her son having his pride wounded, and being unable to indulge + in those little trifling expenses which are the vanity of schoolboys. + </p> + <p> + “Here, take this,” she would tell him on holidays, slipping a + few francs into his hands. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, to her present she joined the recommendation not to allow + his father to know any thing about it; forgetting that she was thus + training Maxence to dissimulate, warping his natural sense of right, and + perverting his instincts. + </p> + <p> + No, she gave; and, to repair the gaps thus made in her treasure, she + worked to the point of ruining her sight, with such eager zeal, that the + worthy shop-keeper of the Rue St. Denis asked her if she did not employ + working girls. In truth, the only help she received was from + Gilberte, who, at the age of eight, already knew how to make herself + useful. + </p> + <p> + And this is not all. For this son, in anticipation of growing + expenses, she stooped to expedients which formerly would have seemed to + her unworthy and disgraceful. She robbed the household, cheating on + her own marketing. She went so far as to confide to her servant, and + to make of the girl the accomplice of her operations. She applied + all her ingenuity to serve to M. Favoral dinners in which the excellence + of the dressing concealed the want of solid substance. And on + Sunday, when she rendered her weekly accounts, it was without a blush that + she increased by a few centimes the price of each object, rejoicing when + she had thus scraped a dozen francs, and finding, to justify herself to + her own eyes, those sophisms which passion never lacks. + </p> + <p> + At first Maxence was too young to wonder from what sources his mother drew + the money she lavished upon his schoolboy fancies. She recommended + him to hide from his father: he did so, and thought it perfectly + natural. + </p> + <p> + As he grew older, he learned to discern. + </p> + <p> + The moment came when he opened his eyes upon the system under which the + paternal household was managed. He noticed there that anxious + economy which seems to betray want, and the acrimonious discussions which + arose upon the inconsiderate use of a twenty-franc-piece. He saw his + mother realize miracles of industry to conceal the shabbiness of her + toilets, and resort to the most skillful diplomacy when she wished to + purchase a dress for Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + And, despite all this, he had at his disposition as much money as those of + his comrades whose parents had the reputation to be the most opulent and + the most generous. + </p> + <p> + Anxious, he questioned his mother. + </p> + <p> + “Eh, what does it matter?” she answered, blushing and + confused. “Is that any thing to worry you?” + </p> + <p> + And, as he insisted, + </p> + <p> + “Go ahead,” she said: “we are rich enough.” + But he could hardly believe her, accustomed as he was to hear every one + talk of poverty; and, as he fixed upon her his great astonished eyes, + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she resumed, with an imprudence which fatally was to + bear its fruits, “we are rich; and, if we live as you see, it is + because it suits your father, who wishes to amass a still greater fortune.” + </p> + <p> + This was hardly an answer; and yet Maxence asked no further question. + But he inquired here and there, with that patient shrewdness of young + people possessed with a fixed idea. + </p> + <p> + Already, at this time, M. Favoral had in the neighborhood, and ever among + his friends, the reputation to be worth at least a million. The + Mutual Credit Society had considerably developed itself: he must, + they thought, have benefitted largely by the circumstance; and the profits + must have swelled rapidly in the hands of so able a man, and one so noted + for his rigid economy. + </p> + <p> + Such is the substance of what Maxence heard; and people did not fail to + add ironically, that he need not rely upon the paternal fortune to amuse + himself. + </p> + <p> + M. Desormeaux himself, whom he had “pumped” rather cleverly, + had told him, whilst patting him amicably on the shoulder, + </p> + <p> + “If you ever need money for your frolics, young man, try and earn + it; for I’ll be hanged if it’s the old man who’ll ever supply it.” + </p> + <p> + Such answers complicated, instead of explaining, the problem which + occupied Maxence. + </p> + <p> + He observed, he watched; and at last he acquired the certainty that the + money he spent was the fruit of the joint labor of his mother and sister. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! why not have told me so?” he exclaimed, throwing his arms + around his mother’s neck. “Why have exposed me to the bitter + regrets which I feel at this moment?” + </p> + <p> + By this sole word the poor woman found herself amply repaid. She + admired the <i>noblesse</i> of her son’s feelings and the kindness of his + heart. + </p> + <p> + “Do you not understand,” she told him, shedding tears of joy, + “do you not see, that the labor which can promote her son’s pleasure + is a happiness for his mother?” + </p> + <p> + But he was dismayed at his discovery. + </p> + <p> + “No matter!” he said. “I swear that I shall no + longer scatter to the winds, as I have been doing, the money that you give + me.” + </p> + <p> + For a few weeks, indeed, he was faithful to his pledge. But at + fifteen resolutions are not very stanch. The impressions he had felt + wore off. He became tired of the small privations which he had to + impose upon himself. + </p> + <p> + He soon came to take to the letter what his mother had told him, and to + prove to his own satisfaction that to deprive himself of a pleasure was to + deprive her. He asked for ten francs one day, then ten francs + another, and gradually resumed his old habits. + </p> + <p> + He was at this time about leaving school. + </p> + <p> + “The moment has come,” said M. Favoral, “for him to + select a career, and support himself.” + </p> + <h2> + X + </h2> + <p> + To think of a profession, Maxence Favoral had not waited for the paternal + warnings. + </p> + <p> + Modern schoolboys are precocious: they know the strong and the weak + side of life; and, when they take their degree, they already have but few + illusions left. + </p> + <p> + And how could it be otherwise? In the interior of the colleges is + fatally found the echo of the thoughts, and the reflex of the manners, of + the time. Neither walls nor keepers can avail. At the same + time, as the city mud that stains their boots, the scholars bring back on + their return from holidays their stock of observations and of facts. + </p> + <p> + And what have they seen during the day in their families, or among their + friends? + </p> + <p> + Ardent cravings, insatiable appetites for luxuries, comforts, enjoyments, + pleasures, contempt for patient labor, scorn for austere convictions, + eager longing for money, the will to become rich at any cost, and the firm + resolution to ravish fortune on the first favorable occasion. + </p> + <p> + To be sure, they have dissembled in their presence; but their perceptions + are keen. + </p> + <p> + True, their father has told them in a grave tone, that there is nothing + respectable in this world except labor and honesty; but they have caught + that same father scarcely noticing a poor devil of an honest man, and + bowing to the earth before some clever rascal bearing the stigma of three + judgments, but worth six millions. + </p> + <p> + Conclusion? Oh! they know very well how to conclude; for there are + none such as young people to be logical, and to deduce the utmost + consequences of a fact. + </p> + <p> + They know, the most of them, that they will have to do something or other; + but what? And it is then, that, during the recreations, their + imagination strives to find that hitherto unknown profession which is to + give them fortune without work, and freedom at the same time as a + brilliant situation. + </p> + <p> + They discuss and criticise freely all the careers which are open to + youthful ambition. And how they laugh, if some simple fellow + ventures upon suggesting some of those modest situations where they earn + one hundred and fifty francs a month at the start! One hundred and + fifty francs!—why, it’s hardly as much as many a boy spends for his + cigars, and his cab-fares when he is late. + </p> + <p> + Maxence was neither better nor worse than the rest. Like the rest he + strove to discover the ideal profession which makes a man rich, and amuses + him at the same time. + </p> + <p> + Under the pretext that he drew nicely, he spoke of becoming a painter, + calculating coolly what painting may yield, and reckoning, according to + some newspaper, the earnings of Corot or Geroine, Ziem, Bouguereau, and + some others, who are reaping at last the fruits of unceasing efforts and + crushing labors. + </p> + <p> + But, in the way of pictures, M. Vincent Favoral appreciated only the blue + vignettes of the Bank of France. + </p> + <p> + “I wish no artists in my family,” he said, in a tone that + admitted of no reply. + </p> + <p> + Maxence would willingly have become an engineer, for it’s rather the style + to be an engineer now-a-days; but the examinations for the Polytechnic + School are rather steep. Or else a cavalry officer; but the two + years at Saint Cyr are not very gay. Or chief clerk, like M. + Desormeaux; but he would have to begin by being supernumerary. + </p> + <p> + Finally after hesitating for a long time between law and medicine, he made + up his mind to become a lawyer, influenced above all, by the joyous + legends of the Latin quarter. + </p> + <p> + That was not exactly M. Vincent Favoral’s dream. + </p> + <p> + “That’s going to cost money again,” he growled. + </p> + <p> + The fact is, he had indulged in the fallacious hope that his son, as soon + as he left college, would enter at once some business-house, where he + would earn enough to take care of himself. + </p> + <p> + He yielded at last, however, to the persistent entreaties of his wife, and + the solicitations of his friends. + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” he said to Maxence: “you will study + law. Only, as it cannot suit me that you should waste your days + lounging in the billiard-rooms of the left bank, you shall at the same + time work in an attorney’s office. Next Saturday I shall arrange + with my friend Chapelain.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had not bargained for such an arrangement; and he came near + backing out at the prospect of a discipline which he foresaw must be as + exacting as that of the college. + </p> + <p> + Still, as he could think of nothing better, he persevered. And, + vacations over, he was duly entered at the law-school, and settled at a + desk in M. Chapelain’s office, which was then in the Rue St. Antoine. + </p> + <p> + The first year every thing went on tolerably. He enjoyed as much + freedom as he cared to. His father did not allow him one centime for + his pocket-money; but the attorney, in his capacity of an old friend of + the family, did for him what he had never done before for an amateur + clerk, and allowed him twenty francs a month. Mme. Favoral adding to + this a few five-franc pieces, Maxence declared himself entirely satisfied. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, with his lively imagination and his impetuous temper, no + one was less fit than himself for that peaceful existence, that steady + toil, the same each day, without the stimulus of difficulties to overcome, + or the satisfaction of results obtained. + </p> + <p> + Before long he became tired of it. + </p> + <p> + He had found at the law-school a number of his old schoolmates whose + parents resided in the provinces, and who, consequently, lived as they + pleased in the Latin quarter, less assiduous to the lectures than to the + Spring Brewery and the Closerie des Lilas.[*] <br /> [ * + A noted dancing-garden. ] + </p> + <p> + He envied them their joyous life, their freedom without control, their + facile pleasures, their furnished rooms, and even the low eating-house + where they took their meals. And, as much as possible, he lived with + them and like them. + </p> + <p> + But it is not with M. Chapelain’s twenty francs that it would have been + possible for him to keep up with fellows, who, with superb recklessness, + took on credit everything they could get, reserving the amount of their + allowance for those amusements which had to be paid for in cash. + </p> + <p> + But was not Mme. Favoral here? + </p> + <p> + She had worked so much, the poor woman, especially since Mlle. Gilberte + had become almost a young lady; she had so much saved, so much stinted, + that her reserve, notwithstanding repeated drafts, amounted to a good + round sum. + </p> + <p> + When Maxence wanted two or three napoleons, he had but a word to say; and + he said it often. Thus, after a while, he became an excellent + billiard-player; he kept his colored meerschaum in the rack of a popular + brewery; he took absinthe before dinner, and spent his evenings in the + laudable effort to ascertain how many mugs of beer he could “put + away.” Gaining in audacity, he danced at Bullier’s, dined at + Foyd’s, and at last had a mistress. + </p> + <p> + So much so, that one afternoon, M. Favoral having to visit on business the + other side of the water, found himself face to face with his son, who was + coming along, a cigar in his mouth, and having on his arm a young lady, + painted in superior style, and harnessed with a toilet calculated to make + the cab-horses rear. + </p> + <p> + He returned to the Rue St. Gilles in a state of indescribable rage. + </p> + <p> + “A woman!” he exclaimed in a tone of offended modesty. + “A woman! —he, my son!” + </p> + <p> + And when that son made his appearance, looking quite sheepish, his first + impulse was to resort to his former mode of correction. + </p> + <p> + But Maxence was now over nineteen years of age. + </p> + <p> + At the sight of the uplifted cane, he became whiter than his shirt; and, + wrenching it from his father’s hands, he broke it across his knees, threw + the pieces violently upon the floor, and sprang out of the house. + </p> + <p> + “He shall never again set his foot here!” screamed the cashier + of the Mutual Credit, thrown beside himself by an act of resistance which + seemed to him unheard of. “I banish him. Let his clothes + be packed up, and taken to some hotel: I never want to see him + again.” + </p> + <p> + For a long time Mme. Favoral and Gilberte fairly dragged themselves at his + feet, before he consented to recall his determination. + </p> + <p> + “He will disgrace us all!” he kept repeating, seeming unable + to understand that it was himself who had, as it were, driven Maxence on + to the fatal road which he was pursuing, forgetting that the absurd + severities of the father prepared the way for the perilous indulgence of + the mother, unwilling to own that the head of a family has other duties + besides providing food and shelter for his wife and children, and that a + father has but little right to complain who has not known how to make + himself the friend and the adviser of his son. + </p> + <p> + At last, after the most violent recriminations, he forgave, in appearance + at least. + </p> + <p> + But the scales had dropped from his eyes. He started in quest of + information, and discovered startling enormities. + </p> + <p> + He heard from M. Chapelain that Maxence remained whole weeks at a time + without appearing at the office. If he had not complained before, it + was because he had yielded to the urgent entreaties of Mme. Favoral; and + he was now glad, he added, of an opportunity to relieve his conscience by + a full confession. + </p> + <p> + Thus the cashier discovered, one by one, all his son’s tricks. He + heard that he was almost unknown at the law-school, that he spent his days + in the Cafés, and that, in the evening, when he believed him in bed + and asleep, he was in fact running out to theatres and to balls. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that’s the way, is it?” he thought. “Ah, my + wife and children are in league against me,—me, the master. + Very well, we’ll see.” + </p> + <h2> + XI + </h2> + <p> + From that morning war was declared. + </p> + <p> + From that day commenced in the Rue St. Gilles one of those domestic dramas + which are still awaiting their Moliere,—a drama of distressing + vulgarity and sickening realism, but poignant, nevertheless; for it + brought into action tears, blood, and a savage energy. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral thought himself sure to win; for did he not have the key of the + cash, and is not the key of the cash the most formidable weapon in an age + where every thing begins and ends with money? + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, he was filled with irritating anxieties. + </p> + <p> + He who had just discovered so many things which he did not even suspect a + few days before, he could not discover the source whence his son drew the + money which flowed like water from his prodigal hands. + </p> + <p> + He had made sure that Maxence had no debts; and yet it could not be with + M. Chapelain’s monthly twenty francs that he fed his frolics. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral and Gilberte, subjected separately to a skillful + interrogatory, had managed to keep inviolate the secret of their mercenary + labor. The servant, shrewdly questioned, had said nothing that could + in any way cause the truth to be suspected. + </p> + <p> + Here was, then, a mystery; and M. Favoral’s constant anxiety could be read + upon his knitted brows during his brief visits to the house; that is, + during dinner. + </p> + <p> + From the manner in which he tasted his soup, it was easy to see that he + was asking himself whether that was real soup, and whether he was not + being imposed upon. From the expression of his eyes, it was easy to + guess this question constantly present to his mind. + </p> + <p> + “They are robbing me evidently; but how do they do it?” + </p> + <p> + And he became distrustful, fussy, and suspicious, to an extent that he had + never been before. It was with the most insulting precautions that + he examined every Sunday his wife’s accounts. He took a look at the + grocer’s, and settled it himself every month: he had the butcher’s + bills sent to him in duplicate. He would inquire the price of an + apple as he peeled it over his plate, and never failed to stop at the + fruiterer’s and ascertain that he had not been deceived. + </p> + <p> + But it was all in vain. + </p> + <p> + And yet he knew that Maxence always had in his pocket two or three + five-franc pieces. + </p> + <p> + “Where do you steal them?” he asked him one day. + </p> + <p> + “I save them out of my salary,” boldly answered the young man. + </p> + <p> + Exasperated, M. Favoral wished to make the whole world take an interest in + his investigations. And one Saturday evening, as he was talking with + his friends, M. Chapelain, the worthy Desclavettes, and old man + Desormeaux, pointing to his wife and daughter: + </p> + <p> + “Those d---d women rob me,” he said, “for the benefit of + my son; and they do it so cleverly that I can’t find out how. They + have an understanding with the shop-keepers, who are but licensed thieves; + and nothing is eaten here that they don’t make me pay double its value.” + </p> + <p> + M. Chapelain made an ill-concealed grimace; whilst M. Desclavettes + sincerely admired a man who had courage enough to confess his meanness. + </p> + <p> + But M. Desormeaux never minced things. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know, friend Vincent,” he said, “that it + requires a strong stomach to take dinner with a man who spends his time + calculating the cost of every mouthful that his guests swallow?” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral turned red in the face. + </p> + <p> + “It is not the expense that I deplore,” he replied, “but + the duplicity. I am rich enough, thank Heaven! not to begrudge a few + francs; and I would gladly give to my wife twice as much as she takes, if + she would only ask it frankly.” + </p> + <p> + But that was a lesson. + </p> + <p> + Hereafter he was careful to dissimulate, and seemed exclusively occupied + in subjecting his son to a system of his invention, the excessive rigor of + which would have upset a steadier one than he. + </p> + <p> + He demanded of him daily written attestations of his attendance both at + the law-school and at the lawyer’s office. He marked out the + itinerary of his walks for him, and measured the time they required, + within a few minutes. Immediately after dinner he shut him up in his + room, under lock and key, and never failed, when he came home at ten + o’clock to make sure of his presence. + </p> + <p> + He could not have taken steps better calculated to exalt still more Mme. + Favoral’s blind tenderness. + </p> + <p> + When she heard that Maxence had a mistress, she had been rudely shocked in + her most cherished feelings. It is never without a secret jealousy + that a mother discovers that a woman has robbed her of her son’s heart. + She had retained a certain amount of spite against him on account of + disorders, which, in her candor, she had never suspected. She + forgave him every thing when she saw of what treatment he was the object. + </p> + <p> + She took sides with him, believing him to be the victim of a most unjust + persecution. In the evening, after her husband had gone out, + Gilberte and herself would take their sewing, sit in the hall outside his + room, and converse with him through the door. Never had they worked + so hard for the shop-keeper in the Rue St. Denis. Some weeks they + earned as much as twenty-five or thirty francs. + </p> + <p> + But Maxence’s patience was exhausted; and one morning he declared + resolutely that he would no longer attend the law-school, that he had been + mistaken in his vocation, and that there was no human power capable to + make him return to M. Chapelain’s. + </p> + <p> + “And where will you go?” exclaimed his father. “Do + you expect me eternally to supply your wants?” + </p> + <p> + He answered that it was precisely in order to support himself, and conquer + his independence, that he had resolved to abandon a profession, which, + after two years, yielded him twenty francs a month. + </p> + <p> + “I want some business where I have a chance to get rich,” he + replied. “I would like to enter a banking-house, or some great + financial establishment.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral jumped at the idea. + </p> + <p> + “That’s a fact,” she said to her husband. “Why + couldn’t you find a place for our son at the Mutual Credit? There he + would be under your own eyes. Intelligent as he is, backed by M. de + Thaller and yourself, he would soon earn a good salary.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral knit his brows. + </p> + <p> + “That I shall never do,” he uttered. “I have not + sufficient confidence in my son. I cannot expose myself to have him + compromise the consideration which I have acquired for myself.” + </p> + <p> + And, revealing to a certain extent the secret of his conduct: + </p> + <p> + “A cashier,” he added, “who like me handles immense sums + cannot be too careful of his reputation. Confidence is a delicate + thing in these times, when there are so many cashiers constantly on the + road to Belgium. Who knows what would be thought of me, if I was + known to have such a son as mine?” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral was insisting, nevertheless, when he seemed to make up his + mind suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “Enough,” he said. “Maxence is free. I allow + him two years to establish himself in some position. That delay + over, good-by: he can find board and lodging where he please. + That’s all. I don’t want to hear any thing more about it.” + </p> + <p> + It was with a sort of frenzy that Maxence abused that freedom; and in less + than two weeks he had dissipated three months’ earnings of his mother and + sister. + </p> + <p> + That time over, he succeeded, thanks to M. Chapelain, in finding a place + with an architect. + </p> + <p> + This was not a very brilliant opening; and the chances were, that he might + remain a clerk all his life. But the future did not trouble him + much. For the present, he was delighted with this inferior position, + which assured him each month one hundred and seventy-five francs. + </p> + <p> + One hundred and seventy-five francs! A fortune. And so he + rushed into that life of questionable pleasures, where so many wretches + have left not only the money which they had, which is nothing, but the + money which they had not, which leads straight to the police-court. + </p> + <p> + He made friends with those shabby fellows who walk up and down in front of + the Café Riche, with an empty stomach, and a tooth-pick between + their teeth. He became a regular customer at those low Cafés + of the Boulevards, where plastered girls smile to the men. He + frequented those suspicious table d’hotes where they play baccarat after + dinner on a wine-stained table-cloth, and where the police make periodical + raids. He ate suppers in those night restaurants where people throw + the bottles at each other’s heads after drinking their contents. + </p> + <p> + Often he remained twenty-four hours without coming to the Rue St. Gilles; + and then Mme. Favoral spent the night in the most fearful anxiety. + Then, suddenly, at some hour when he knew his father to be absent, he + would appear, and, taking his mother to one side: + </p> + <p> + “I very much want a few louis,” he would say in a sheepish + tone. + </p> + <p> + She gave them to him; and she kept giving them so long as she had any, + not, however, without observing timidly to him that Gilberte and herself + could not earn very much. + </p> + <p> + Until finally one evening, and to a last demand: + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” she answered sorrowfully, “I have nothing left, + and it is only on Monday that we are to take our work back. Couldn’t + you wait until then?” + </p> + <p> + He could not wait: he was expected for a game. Blind devotion + begets ferocious egotism. He wanted his mother to go out and borrow + the money from the grocer or the butcher. She was hesitating. + He spoke louder. + </p> + <p> + Then Mlle. Gilberte appeared. + </p> + <p> + “Have you, then, really no heart?” she said. “It + seems to me, that, if I were a man, I would not ask my mother and sister + to work for me.” + </p> + <h2> + XII + </h2> + <p> + Gilberte Favoral had just completed her eighteenth year. Rather + tall, slender, her every motion betrayed the admirable proportions of her + figure, and had that grace which results from the harmonious blending of + litheness and strength. She did not strike at first sight; but soon + a penetrating and indefinable charm arose from her whole person; and one + knew not which to admire most,—the exquisite perfections of her + figure, the divine roundness of her neck, her aerial carriage, or the + placid ingenuousness of her attitudes. She could not be called + beautiful, inasmuch as her features lacked regularity; but the extreme + mobility of her countenance, upon which could be read all the emotions of + her soul, had an irresistible seduction. Her large eyes, of velvety + blue, had untold depths and an incredible intensity of expression; the + imperceptible quiver of her rosy nostrils revealed an untamable pride; and + the smile that played upon her lips told her immense contempt for every + thing mean and small. But her real beauty was her hair,—of a + blonde so luminous that it seemed powdered with diamond-dust; so thick and + so long, that to be able to twist and confine it, she had to cut off heavy + locks of it to the very root. + </p> + <p> + Alone, in the house, she did not tremble at her father’s voice. The + studied despotism which had subdued Mme. Favoral had revolted her, and her + energy had become tempered under the same system of oppression which had + unnerved Maxence. + </p> + <p> + Whilst her mother and her brother lied with that quiet impudence of the + slave, whose sole weapon is duplicity, Gilberte preserved a sullen + silence. And if complicity was imposed upon her by circumstances, if + she had to maintain a falsehood, each word cost her such a painful effort, + that her features became visibly altered. + </p> + <p> + Never, when her own interests were alone at stake, had she stooped to an + untruth. Fearlessly, and whatever might be the result, + </p> + <p> + “That is the fact,” she would say. + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, M. Favoral could not help respecting her to a degree; and, + when he was in fine humor, he called her the Empress Gilberte. For + her alone he had some deference and some attentions. He moderated, + when she looked at him, the brutality of his language. He brought + her a few flowers every Saturday. + </p> + <p> + He had even allowed her a professor of music; though he was wont to + declare that a woman needs but two accomplishments,—to cook and to + sew. But she had insisted so much, that he had at last discovered + for her, in an attic of the Rue du Pas-de-la-Mule, an old Italian master, + the Signor Gismondo Pulei, a sort of unknown genius, for whom thirty + francs a month were a fortune, and who conceived a sort of religious + fanaticism for his pupil. + </p> + <p> + Though he had always refused to write a note, he consented, for her sake, + to fix the melodies that buzzed in his cracked brain; and some of them + proved to be admirable. He dreamed to compose for her an opera that + would transmit to the most remote generations the name of Gismondo Pulei. + </p> + <p> + “The Signora Gilberte is the very goddess of music,” he said + to M. Favoral, with transports of enthusiasm, which intensified still his + frightful accent. + </p> + <p> + The cashier of the Mutual Credit Society shrugged his shoulders, answering + that there is no harmony for a man who spends his days listening to the + exciting music of golden coins. In spite of which his vanity seemed + highly gratified, when on Saturday evenings, after dinner, Mlle. Gilberte + sat at the piano, and Mme. Desclavettes, suppressing a yawn, would + exclaim, + </p> + <p> + “What remarkable talent the dear child has!” + </p> + <p> + The young girl had, then, a positive influence; and it was to her + entreaties alone, and not to those of his wife, that he had several times + forgiven Maxence. He would have done much more for her, had she + wished it; but she would have been compelled to ask, to insist, to beg. + </p> + <p> + “And it’s humiliating,” she used to say. + </p> + <p> + Sometimes Mme. Favoral scolded her gently, saying that her father would + certainly not refuse her one of those pretty toilets which are the + ambition and the joy of young girls. + </p> + <p> + But she: + </p> + <p> + “It is much less mortification to me to wear these rags than to meet + with a refusal,” she replied. “I am satisfied with my + dresses.” + </p> + <p> + With such a character, surrounded, however, by a meek resignation, and an + unalterable <i>sang-froid</i>, she inspired a certain respect to both her + mother and her brother, who admired in her an energy of which they felt + themselves incapable. + </p> + <p> + And when she appeared, and commenced reproaching him in an indignant tone + of voice, with the baseness of his conduct, and his insatiate demands, + Maxence was almost stunned. + </p> + <p> + “I did not know,” he commenced, turning as red as fire. + </p> + <p> + She crushed him with a look of mingled contempt and pity; and, in an + accent of haughty irony: + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” she said, “you do not know whence the money + comes that you extort from our mother!” + </p> + <p> + And holding up her hand, still remarkably handsome, though slightly + deformed by the constant handling of the needle; the fourth finger of the + right hand bent by the thread, and the fore-finger of the left tattooed + and lacerated by the needle: + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” she repeated, “you do not know that my mother + and myself, we spend all our days, and the greater part of our nights, + working?” + </p> + <p> + Hanging his head, he said nothing. + </p> + <p> + “If it were for myself alone,” she continued, “I would + not speak to you thus. But look at our mother! See her poor + eyes, red and weak from her ceaseless labor! If I have said nothing + until now, it is because I did not as yet despair of your heart; because I + hoped that you would recover some feeling of decency. But no, + nothing. With time, your last scruples seem to have vanished. + Once you begged humbly; now you demand rudely. How soon will you + resort to blows?” + </p> + <p> + “Gilberte!” stammered the poor fellow, “Gilberte!” + </p> + <p> + She interrupted him: + </p> + <p> + “Money!” she went on, “always, and without time, you + must have money; no matter whence it comes, nor what it costs. If, + at least, you had to justify your expenses, the excuse of some great + passion, or of some object, were it absurd, ardently pursued! But I + defy you to confess upon what degrading pleasures you lavish our humble + economies. I defy you to tell us what you mean to do with the sum + that you demand to-night,—that sum for which you would have our + mother stoop to beg the assistance of a shop-keeper, to whom we would be + compelled to reveal the secret of our shame.” + </p> + <p> + Touched by the frightful humiliation of her son: + </p> + <p> + “He is so unhappy!” stammered Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “He unhappy!” she exclaimed. “What, then, shall we + say of us? and, above all, what shall you say of yourself, mother? + Unhappy!—he, a man, who has liberty and strength, who may undertake + every thing, attempt any thing, dare any thing. Ah, I wish I were a + man! I! I would be a man as there are some, as I know some; + and I would have avenged you, O beloved mother! long, long ago, from + father; and I would have begun to repay you all the good you have done me.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral was sobbing. + </p> + <p> + “I beg of you,” she murmured, “spare him.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” said the young girl. “But you must + allow me to tell him that it is not for his sake that I devote my youth to + a mercenary labor. It is for you, adored mother, that you may have + the joy to give him what he asks, since it is your only joy.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence shuddered under the breath of that superb indignation. That + frightful humiliation, he felt that he deserved it only too much. He + understood the justice of these cruel reproaches. And, as his heart + had not yet spoiled with the contact of his boon companions, as he was + weak, rather than wicked, as the sentiments which are the honor and pride + of a man were not dead within him. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you are a brave sister, Gilberte,” he exclaimed; “and + what you have just done is well. You have been harsh, but not as + much as I deserve. Thanks for your courage, which will give me back + mine. Yes, it is a shame for me to have thus cowardly abused you + both.” + </p> + <p> + And, raising his mother’s hand to his lips: “Forgive, mother,” + he continued, his eyes overflowing with tears; “forgive him who + swears to you to redeem his past, and to become your support, instead of + being a crushing burden—” + </p> + <p> + He was interrupted by the noise of steps on the stairs, and the shrill + sound of a whistle. + </p> + <p> + “My husband!” exclaimed Mme. Favoral,—“your + father, my children!” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mlle. Gilberte coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you hear that he is whistling? and do you forget that it is a + proof that he is furious? What new trial threatens us again?” + </p> + <h2> + XIII + </h2> + <p> + Mme. Favoral spoke from experience. She had learned, to her cost, + that the whistle of her husband, more surely than the shriek of the stormy + petrel, announces the storm.—And she had that evening more reasons + than usual to fear. Breaking from all his habits, M. Favoral had not + come home to dinner, and had sent one of the clerks of the Mutual Credit + Society to say that they should not wait for him. + </p> + <p> + Soon his latch-key grated in the lock; the door swung open; he came in; + and, seeing his son: + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am glad to find you here,” he exclaimed with a + giggle, which with him was the utmost expression of anger. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral shuddered. Still under the impression of the scene + which had just taken place, his heart heavy, and his eyes full of tears, + Maxence did not answer. + </p> + <p> + “It is doubtless a wager,” resumed the father, “and you + wish to know how far my patience may go.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand you,” stammered the young man. + </p> + <p> + “The money that you used to get, I know not where, doubtless fails + you now, or at least is no longer sufficient, and you go on making debts + right and left—at the tailor’s, the shirt maker’s, the jeweler’s. + Of course, it’s simple enough. We earn nothing; but we wish to dress + in the latest style, to wear a gold chain across our vest, and then we + make dupes.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never made any dupes, father.” + </p> + <p> + “Bah! And what, then, do you call all these people who came + this very day to present me their bills? For they did dare to come + to my office! They had agreed to come together, expecting thus to + intimidate me more easily. I told them that you were of age, and + that your business was none of mine. Hearing this, they became + insolent, and commenced speaking so loud, that their voices could be heard + in the adjoining rooms. At that very moment, the manager, M. de + Thaller, happened to be passing through the hall. Hearing the noise + of a discussion, he thought that I was having some difficulty with some of + our stockholders, and he came in, as he had a right to. Then I was + compelled to confess everything.” + </p> + <p> + He became excited at the sound of his words, like a horse at the jingle of + his bells. And, more and more beside himself: + </p> + <p> + “That is just what your creditors wished,” he pursued. + “They thought I would be afraid of a row, and that I would ‘come + down.’ It is a system of blackmailing, like any other. + An account is opened to some young rascal; and, when the amount is + reasonably large, they take it to the family, saying, ‘Money, or I + make row.’ Do you think it is to you, who are penniless, that + they give credit? It’s on my pocket that they were drawing,—on + my pocket, because they believed me rich. They sold you at + exorbitant prices every thing they wished; and they relied on me to pay + for trousers at ninety francs, shirts at forty francs, and watches at six + hundred francs.” + </p> + <p> + Contrary to his habit, Maxence did not offer any denial. + </p> + <p> + “I expect to pay all I owe,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “You!” + </p> + <p> + “I give my word I will!” + </p> + <p> + “And with what, pray?” + </p> + <p> + “With my salary.” + </p> + <p> + “You have a salary, then?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence blushed. + </p> + <p> + “I have what I earn at my employer’s.” + </p> + <p> + “What employer?” + </p> + <p> + “The architect in whose office M. Chapelain helped me to find a + place.” + </p> + <p> + With a threatening gesture, M. Favoral interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “Spare me your lies,” he uttered. “I am better + posted than you suppose. I know, that, over a month ago, your + employer, tired of your idleness, dismissed you in disgrace.” + </p> + <p> + Disgrace was superfluous. The fact was, that Maxence, returning to + work after an absence of five days, had found another in his place. + </p> + <p> + “I shall find another place,” he said. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral shrugged his shoulders with a movement of rage. + </p> + <p> + “And in the mean time,” he said, “I shall have to pay. + Do you know what your creditors threaten to do?—to commence a suit + against me. They would lose it, of course, they know it; but they + hope that I would yield before a scandal. And this is not all: + they talk of entering a criminal complaint. They pretend that you + have audaciously swindled them; that the articles you purchased of them + were not at all for your own use, but that you sold them as fast as you + got them, at any price you could obtain, to raise ready money. The + jeweler has proofs, he says, that you went straight from his shop to the + pawnbroker’s, and pledged a watch and chain which he had just sold you. + It is a police matter. They said all that in presence of my superior + officer—in presence of M. de Thaller. I had to get the janitor + to put them out. But, after they had left, M. de Thaller gave me to + understand that he wished me very much to settle everything. And he + is right. My consideration could not resist another such scene. + What confidence can be placed in a cashier whose son behaves in this + manner? How can a key of a safe containing millions be left with a + man whose son would have been dragged into the police-courts? In a + word, I am at your mercy. In a word, my honor, my position, my + fortune, rest upon you. As often as it may please you to make debts, + you can make them, and I shall be compelled to pay.” + </p> + <p> + Gathering all his courage: + </p> + <p> + “You have been sometimes very harsh with me, father,” + commenced Maxence; “and yet I will not try to justify my conduct. + I swear to you, that hereafter you shall have nothing to fear from me.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear nothing,” uttered M. Favoral with a sinister smile. + “I know the means of placing myself beyond the reach of your follies + —and I shall use them.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, father, that I have taken a firm resolution.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! you may dispense with your periodical repentance.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “I’ll stand warrant,” she said, “for Maxence’s + resolutions.” + </p> + <p> + Her father did not permit her to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “Enough,” he interrupted somewhat harshly. “Mind + your own business, Gilberte! I have to speak to you too.” + </p> + <p> + “To me, father?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + He walked up and down three or four times through the parlor, as if to + calm his irritation. Then planting himself straight before his + daughter, his arms folded across his breast: + </p> + <p> + “You are eighteen years of age,” he said; “that is to + say, it is time to think of your marriage. An excellent match offers + itself.” + </p> + <p> + She shuddered, stepped back, and, redder than a peony: + </p> + <p> + “A match!” she repeated in a tone of immense surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and which suits me.” + </p> + <p> + “But I do not wish to marry, father.” + </p> + <p> + “All young girls say the same thing; and, as soon as a pretender + offers himself, they are delighted. Mine is a fellow of twenty-six, + quite good looking, amiable, witty, and who has had the greatest success + in society.” + </p> + <p> + “Father, I assure you that I do not wish to leave mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course not. He is an intelligent, hard-working man, + destined, everybody says, to make an immense fortune. Although he is + rich already, for he holds a controlling interest in a stock-broker’s + firm, he works as hard as any poor devil. I would not be surprised + to hear that he makes half a million of francs a year. His wife will + have her carriage, her box at the opera, diamonds, and dresses as handsome + as Mlle. de Thaller’s.” + </p> + <p> + “Eh! What do I care for such things?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s understood. I’ll present him to you on Saturday.” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Gilberte was not one of those young girls who allow themselves, + through weakness or timidity, to become engaged, and so far engaged, that + later, they can no longer withdraw. A discussion being unavoidable, + she preferred to have it out at once. + </p> + <p> + “A presentation is absolutely useless, father,” she declared + resolutely. + </p> + <p> + “Because?” + </p> + <p> + “I have told you that I did not wish to marry.” + </p> + <p> + “But if it is my will?” + </p> + <p> + “I am ready to obey you in every thing except that.” + </p> + <p> + “In that as in every thing else,” interrupted the cashier of + the Mutual Credit in a thundering voice. + </p> + <p> + And, casting upon his wife and children a glance full of defiance and + threats: + </p> + <p> + “In that, as in every thing else,” he repeated, “because + I am the master; and I shall prove it. Yes, I will prove it; for I + am tired to see my family leagued against my authority.” + </p> + <p> + And out he went, slamming the door so violently, that the partitions + shook. + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong to resist your father thus,” murmured the weak + Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + The fact is, that the poor woman could not understand why her daughter + refused the only means at her command to break off with her miserable + existence. + </p> + <p> + “Let him present you this young man,” she said. “You + might like him.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I shall not like him.” + </p> + <p> + She said this in such a tone, that the light suddenly flashed upon Mme. + Favoral’s mind. + </p> + <p> + “Heavens!” she murmured. “Gilberte, my darling + child, have you then a secret which your mother does not know?” + </p> + <h2> + XIV + </h2> + <p> + Yes, Mlle. Gilberte had her secret—a very simple one, though, + chaste, like herself, and one of those which, as the old women say, must + cause the angels to rejoice. + </p> + <p> + The spring of that year having been unusually mild, Mme. Favoral and her + daughter had taken the habit of going daily to breathe the fresh air in + the Place Royale. They took their work with them, crotchet or + knitting; so that this salutary exercise did not in any way diminish the + earnings of the week. It was during these walks that Mlle. Gilberte + had at last noticed a young man, unknown to her, whom she met every day at + the same place. + </p> + <p> + Tall and robust, he had a grand look, notwithstanding his modest clothes, + the exquisite neatness of which betrayed a sort of respectable poverty. + He wore his full beard; and his proud and intelligent features were + lighted up by a pair of large black eyes, of those eyes whose straight and + clear look disconcerts hypocrites and knaves. + </p> + <p> + He never failed, as he passed by Mlle. Gilberte, to look down, or turn his + head slightly away; and in spite of this, in spite of the expression of + respect which she had detected upon his face, she could not help blushing. + </p> + <p> + “Which is absurd,” she thought; “for after all, what on + earth do I care for that young man?” + </p> + <p> + The infallible instinct, which is the experience of inexperienced young + girls, told her that it was not chance alone that brought this stranger in + her way. But she wished to make sure of it. She managed so + well, that each day of the following week, the hour of their walk was + changed. Sometimes they went out at noon, sometimes after four + o’clock. + </p> + <p> + But, whatever the hour, Mlle. Gilberte, as she turned the corner of the + Rue des Minimes, noticed her unknown admirer under the arcades, looking in + some shop-window, and watching out of the corner of his eye. As soon + as she appeared, he left his post, and hurried fast enough to meet her at + the gate of the Place. + </p> + <p> + “It is a persecution,” thought Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + How, then, had she not spoken of it to her mother? Why had she not + said any thing to her the day, when, happening, to look out of the window, + she saw her “persecutor” passing before the house, or, + evidently looking in her direction? + </p> + <p> + “Am I losing my mind?” she thought, seriously irritated + against herself. “I will not think of him any more.” + </p> + <p> + And yet she was thinking of him, when one afternoon, as her mother and + herself were working, sitting upon a bench, she saw the stranger come and + sit down not far from them. He was accompanied by an elderly man + with long white mustaches, and wearing the rosette of the Legion of Honor. + </p> + <p> + “This is an insolence,” thought the young girl, whilst seeking + a pretext to ask her mother to change their seats. + </p> + <p> + But already had the young man and his elderly friend seated themselves, + and so arranged their chairs, that Mlle. Gilberte could not miss a word of + what they were about to say. It was the young man who spoke first. + </p> + <p> + “You know me as well as I know myself, my dear count,” he + commenced —“you who were my poor father’s best friend, you who + dandled me upon your knees when I was a child, and who has never lost + sight of me.” + </p> + <p> + “Which is to say, my boy, that I answer for you as for myself,” + put in the old man. “But go on.” + </p> + <p> + “I am twenty-six years old. My name is Yves-Marius-Genost de + Tregars. My family, which is one of the oldest of Brittany, is + allied to all the great families.” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly exact,” remarked the old gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, my fortune is not on a par with my nobility. + When my mother died, in 1856, my father, who worshiped her, could no + longer bear, in the intensity of his grief, to remain at the Chateau de + Tregars where he had spent his whole life. He came to Paris, which + he could well afford, since we were rich then, but unfortunately, made + acquaintances who soon inoculated him with the fever of the age. + They proved to him that he was mad to keep lands which barely yielded him + forty thousand francs a year, and which he could easily sell for two + millions; which amount, invested merely at five per cent, would yield him + an income of one hundred thousand francs. He therefore sold every + thing, except our patrimonial homestead on the road from Quimper to + Audierne, and rushed into speculations. He was rather lucky at + first. But he was too honest and too loyal to be lucky long. + An operation in which he became interested early in 1869 turned out badly. + His associates became rich; but he, I know not how, was ruined, and came + near being compromised. He died of grief a month later.” + </p> + <p> + The old soldier was nodding his assent. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, my boy,” he said. “But you are too + modest; and there’s a circumstance which you neglect. You had a + right, when your father became involved in these troubles, to claim and + retain your mother’s fortune; that is, some thirty thousand francs a year. + Not only you did not do so; but you gave up every thing to his creditors. + You sold the domain of Tregars, except the old castle and its park, and + paid over the proceeds to them; so that, if your father did die ruined, at + least he did not owe a cent. And yet you knew, as well as myself, + that your father had been deceived and swindled by a lot of scoundrels who + drive their carriages now, and who, perhaps, if the courts were applied + to, might still be made to disgorge their ill-gotten plunder.” + </p> + <p> + Her head bent upon her tapestry, Mlle. Gilberte seemed to be working with + incomparable zeal. The truth is, she knew not how to conceal the + blushes on her cheeks, and the trembling of her hands. She had + something like a cloud before her eyes; and she drove her needle at + random. She scarcely preserved enough presence of mind to reply to + Mme. Favoral, who, not noticing any thing, spoke to her from time to time. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, the meaning of this scene was too clear to escape her. + </p> + <p> + “They have had an understanding,” she thought, “and it + is for me alone that they are speaking.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Marius de Tregars was going on: + </p> + <p> + “I should lie, my old friend, were I to say that I was indifferent + to our ruin. Philosopher though one may be, it is not without some + pangs that one passes from a sumptuous hotel to a gloomy garret. But + what grieved me most of all was that I saw myself compelled to give up the + labors which had been the joy of my life, and upon which I had founded the + most magnificent hopes. A positive vocation, stimulated further by + the accidents of my education, had led me to the study of physical + sciences. For several years, I had applied all I have of + intelligence and energy to certain investigations in electricity. To + convert electricity into an incomparable motive-power which would + supersede steam,—such was the object I pursued without pause. + Already, as you know, although quite young, I had obtained results which + had attracted some attention in the scientific world. I thought I + could see the last of a problem, the solution of which would change the + face of the globe. Ruin was the death of my hopes, the total loss of + the fruits of my labors; for my experiments were costly, and it required + money, much money, to purchase the products which were indispensable to + me, and to construct the machines which I contrived. + </p> + <p> + “And I was about being compelled to earn my daily bread. + </p> + <p> + “I was on the verge of despair, when I met a man whom I had formerly + seen at my father’s, and who had seemed to take some interest in my + researches, a speculator named Marcolet. But it is not at the bourse + that he operates. Industry is the field of his labors. Ever on + the lookout for those obstinate inventors who are starving to death in + their garrets, he appears to them at the hour of supreme crisis: he + pities them, encourages them, consoles them, helps them, and almost always + succeeds in becoming the owner of their discovery. Sometimes he + makes a mistake; and then all he has to do is to put a few thousand francs + to the debit of profit or loss. But, if he has judged right, then he + counts his profits by hundreds of thousands; and how many patents does he + work thus! Of how many inventions does he reap the results which are + a fortune, and the inventors of which have no shoes to wear! Every + thing is good to him; and he defends with the same avidity a cough-sirup, + the formula of which he has purchased of some poor devil of a druggist, + and an improvement to the steam-engine, the patent for which has been sold + to him by an engineer of genius. And yet Marcolet is not a bad man. + Seeing my situation, he offered me a certain yearly sum to undertake some + studies of industrial chemistry which he indicated to me. I + accepted; and the very next day I hired a small basement in the Rue des + Tournelles, where I set up my laboratory, and went to work at once. + That was a year ago. Marcolet must be satisfied. I have + already found for him a new shade for dyeing silk, the cost price of which + is almost nothing. As to me, I have lived with the strictest + economy, devoting all my surplus earnings to the prosecution of the + problem, the solution of which would give me both glory and fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Palpitating with inexpressible emotion, Mlle. Gilberte was listening to + this young man, unknown to her a few moments since, and whose whole + history she now knew as well as if she had always lived near him; for it + never occurred to her to suspect his sincerity. + </p> + <p> + No voice had ever vibrated to her ear like this voice, whose grave + sonorousness stirred within her strange sensations, and legions of + thoughts which she had never suspected. She was surprised at the + accent of simplicity with which he spoke of the illustriousness of his + family, of his past opulence, of his obscure labors, and of his exalted + hopes. + </p> + <p> + She admired the superb disregard for money which beamed forth in his every + word. Here was then one man, at least, who despised that money + before which she had hitherto seen all the people she knew prostrated in + abject worship. + </p> + <p> + After a pause of a few moments, Marius de Tregars, still addressing + himself apparently to his aged companion, went on: + </p> + <p> + “I repeat it, because it is the truth, my old friend, this life of + labor and privation, so new to me, was not a burden. Calm, silence, + the constant exercise of all the faculties of the intellect, have charms + which the vulgar can never suspect. I was happy to think, that, if I + was ruined, it was through an act of my own will. I found a positive + pleasure in the fact that I, the Marquis de Tregars, who had had a hundred + thousand a year—I must the next moment go out in person to the + baker’s and the green-grocer’s to purchase my supplies for the day. + I was proud to think that it was to my labor alone, to the work for which + I was paid by Marcolet, that I owed the means of prosecuting my task. + And, from the summits where I was carried on the wings of science, I took + pity on your modern existence, on that ridiculous and tragical medley of + passions, interests, and cravings; that struggle without truce or mercy, + whose law is, woe to the weak, in which whosoever falls is trampled under + feet. + </p> + <p> + “Sometimes, however, like a fire that has been smouldering under the + ashes, the flame of youthful passions blazed up within me. I had + hours of madness, of discouragement, of distress, during which solitude + was loathsome to me. But I had the faith which raises mountains—faith + in myself and my work. And soon, tranquilized, I would go to sleep + in the purple of hope, beholding in the vista of the distant future the + triumphal arches erected to my success. + </p> + <p> + “Such was my situation, when, one afternoon in the month of February + last, after an experiment upon which I had founded great hopes, and which + had just miserably failed, I came here to breathe a little fresh air. + </p> + <p> + “It was a beautiful spring day, warm and sunny. The sparrows + were chirping on the branches, swelled with sap: bands of children + were running along the alleys, filling the air with their joyous screams. + </p> + <p> + “I was sitting upon a bench, ruminating over the causes of my + failure, when two ladies passed by me; one somewhat aged, the other quite + young. They were walking so rapidly, that I hardly had time to see + them. + </p> + <p> + “But the young lady’s step, the noble simplicity of her carriage, + had struck me so much, that I rose to follow her with the intention of + passing her, and then walking back to have a good view of her face. + I did so; and I was fairly dazzled. At the moment when my eyes met + hers, a voice rose within me, crying that it was all over now, and that my + destiny was fixed.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember, my dear boy,” remarked the old soldier in a tone + of friendly raillery; “for you came to see me that night, and I had + not seen you for months before.” + </p> + <p> + Marius proceeded without heeding the remark. + </p> + <p> + “And yet you know that I am not the man to yield to first + impression. I struggled: with determined energy I strove to + drive off that radiant image which I carried within my soul, which left me + no more, which haunted me in the midst of my studies. + </p> + <p> + “Vain efforts. My thoughts obeyed me no longer—my will + escaped my control. It was indeed one of those passions that fill + the whole being, overpower all, and which make of life an ineffable + felicity or a nameless torture, according that they are reciprocated, or + not. How many days I spent there, waiting and watching for her of + whom I had thus had a glimpse, and who ignored my very existence! + And what insane palpitations, when, after hours of consuming anxiety, I + saw at the corner of the street the undulating folds of her dress! I + saw her thus often, and always with the same elderly person, her mother. + They had adopted in this square a particular bench, where they sat daily, + working at their sewing with an assiduity and zeal which made me think + that they lived upon the product of their labor.” + </p> + <p> + Here he was suddenly interrupted by his companion. The old gentleman + feared that Mme. Favoral’s attention might at last be attracted by too + direct allusions. + </p> + <p> + “Take care, boy!” he whispered, not so low, however, but what + Gilberte overheard him. + </p> + <p> + But it would have required much more than this to draw Mme. Favoral from + her sad thoughts. She had just finished her band of tapestry; and, + grieving to lose a moment: + </p> + <p> + “It is perhaps time to go home,” she said to her daughter. + “I have nothing more to do.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte drew from her basket a piece of canvas, and, handing it to + her mother: + </p> + <p> + “Here is enough to go on with, mamma,” she said in a troubled + voice. “Let us stay a little while longer.” + </p> + <p> + And, Mme. Favoral having resumed her work, Marius proceeded: + </p> + <p> + “The thought that she whom I loved was poor delighted me. Was + not this similarity of positions a link between us? I felt a + childish joy to think that I would work for her and for her mother, and + that they would be indebted to me for their ease and comfort in life. + </p> + <p> + “But I am not one of those dreamers who confide their destiny to the + wings of a chimera. Before undertaking any thing, I resolved to + inform myself. Alas! at the first words that I heard, all my fine + dreams took wings. I heard that she was rich, very rich. I was + told that her father was one of those men whose rigid probity surrounds + itself with austere and harsh forms. He owed his fortune, I was + assured, to his sole labor, but also to prodigies of economy and the most + severe privations. He professed a worship, they said, for that gold + that had cost him so much; and he would never give the hand of his + daughter to a man who had no money. This last comment was useless. + Above my actions, my thoughts, my hopes, higher than all, soars my pride. + Instantly I saw an abyss opening between me and her whom I love more than + my life, but less than my dignity. When a man’s name is Genost de + Tregars, he must support his wife, were it by breaking stones. And + the thought that I owed my fortune to the woman I married would make me + execrate her. + </p> + <p> + “You must remember, my old friend, that I told you all this at the + time. You thought, too, that it was singularly impertinent, on my + part, thus to flare up in advance, because, certainly a millionaire does + not give his daughter to a ruined nobleman in the pay of Marcolet, the + patent-broker, to a poor devil of an inventor, who is building the castles + of his future upon the solution of a problem which has been given up by + the most brilliant minds. + </p> + <p> + “It was then that I determined upon an extreme resolution, a foolish + one, no doubt, and yet to which you, the Count de Villegre, my father’s + old friend, you have consented to lend yourself. + </p> + <p> + “I thought that I would address myself to her, to her alone, and + that she would at least know what great, what immense love she had + inspired. I thought I would go to her and tell her, ‘This is + who I am, and what I am. For mercy’s sake, grant me a respite of + three years. To a love such as mine there is nothing impossible. + In three years I shall be dead, or rich enough to ask your hand. + From this day forth, I give up my task for work of more immediate profit. + The arts of industry have treasures for successful inventors. If you + could only read in my soul, you would not refuse me the delay I am asking. + Forgive me! One word, for mercy’s sake, only one! It is my + sentence that I am awaiting.’” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte’s thoughts were in too great a state of confusion to permit + her to think of being offended at this extraordinary proceeding. She + rose, quivering, and addressing herself to Mme. Favoral: + </p> + <p> + “Come, mother,” she said, “come: I feel that I + have taken cold. I must go home and think. To-morrow, yes, + to-morrow, we will come again.” + </p> + <p> + Deep as Mme. Favoral was plunged in her meditations, and a thousand miles + as she was from the actual situation, it was impossible that she should + not notice the intense excitement under which her daughter labored, the + alteration of her features, and the incoherence of her words. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” she asked, somewhat alarmed. + “What are you saying?” + </p> + <p> + “I feel unwell,” answered her daughter in a scarcely audible + voice, “quite unwell. Come, let us go home.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as they reached home, Mlle. Gilberte took refuge in her own room. + She was in haste to be alone, to recover her self-possession, to collect + her thoughts, more scattered than dry leaves by a storm wind. + </p> + <p> + It was a momentous event which had just suddenly fallen in her life so + monotonous and so calm—an inconceivable, startling event, the + consequences of which were to weigh heavily upon her entire future. + </p> + <p> + Staggering still, she was asking herself if she was not the victim of an + hallucination, and if really there was a man who had dared to conceive and + execute the audacious project of coming thus under the eyes of her mother, + of declaring his love, and of asking her in return a solemn engagement. + But what stupefied her more still, what confused her, was that she had + actually endured such an attempt. + </p> + <p> + Under what despotic influence had she, then, fallen? To what + undefinable sentiments had she obeyed? And if she had only + tolerated! But she had done more: she had actually encouraged. + By detaining her mother when she wished to go home (and she had detained + her), had she not said to this unknown?—“Go on, I allow it: + I am listening.” + </p> + <p> + And he had gone on. And she, at the moment of returning home, she + had engaged herself formally to reflect, and to return the next day at a + stated hour to give an answer. In a word, she had made an + appointment with him. + </p> + <p> + It was enough to make her die of shame. And, as if she had needed + the sound of her own words to convince herself of the reality of the fact, + she kept repeating loud, + </p> + <p> + “I have made an appointment—I, Gilberte, with a man whom my + parents do not know, and of whose name I was still ignorant yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + And yet she could not take upon herself to be indignant at the imprudent + boldness of her conduct. The bitterness of the reproaches which she + was addressing to herself was not sincere. She felt it so well, that + at last: + </p> + <p> + “Such hypocrisy is unworthy of me,” she exclaimed, “since + now, still, and without the excuse of being taken by surprise, I would not + act otherwise.” + </p> + <p> + The fact is, the more she pondered, the less she could succeed in + discovering even the shadow of any offensive intention in all that Marius + de Tregars had said. By the choice of his confidant, an old man, a + friend of his family, a man of the highest respectability, he had done all + in his power to make his step excusable. It was impossible to doubt + his sincerity, to suspect the fairness of his intentions. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte, better than almost any other young girl, could understand + the extreme measure resorted to by M. de Tregars. By her own pride + she could understand his. No more than he, in his place, would she + have been willing to expose herself to a certain refusal. What was + there, then, so extraordinary in the fact of his coming directly to her, + in his exposing to her frankly and loyally his situation, his projects, + and his hopes? + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” she thought, horrified at the sentiments which + she discovered in the deep recesses of her soul, “good heavens! + I hardly know myself any more. Here I am actually approving what he + has done!” + </p> + <p> + Well, yes, she did approve him, attracted, fascinated, by the very + strangeness of the situation. Nothing seemed to her more admirable + than the conduct of Marius de Tregars sacrificing his fortune and his most + legitimate aspirations to the honor of his name, and condemning himself to + work for his living. + </p> + <p> + “That one,” she thought, “is a man; and his wife will + have just cause to be proud of him.” + </p> + <p> + Involuntarily she compared him to the only men she knew: to M. + Favoral, whose miserly parsimony had made his whole family wretched; to + Maxence, who did not blush to feed his disorders with the fruits of his + mother’s and his sister’s labor. + </p> + <p> + How different was Marius! If he was poor, it was of his own will. + Had she not seen what confidence he had in himself. She shared it + fully. She felt certain that, within the required delay, he would + conquer that indispensable fortune. Then he might present himself + boldly. He would take her, away from the miserable surroundings + among which she seemed fated to live: she would become the + Marchioness de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “Why, then, not answer, Yes!” thought she, with the harrowing + emotions of the gambler who is about to stake his all upon one card. + And what a game for Mlle. Gilberte, and what a stake! + </p> + <p> + Suppose she had been mistaken. Suppose that Marius should be one of + those villains who make of seduction a science. Would she still be + her own mistress, after answering? Did she know to what hazards such + an engagement would expose her? Was she not about rushing + blindfolded towards those deceiving perils where a young girl leaves her + reputation, even when she saves her honor? + </p> + <p> + She thought, for a moment, of consulting her mother. But she knew + Mme. Favoral’s shrinking timidity, and that she was as incapable of giving + any advice as to make her will prevail. She would be frightened; she + would approve all; and, at the first alarm, she would confess all. + </p> + <p> + “Am I, then, so weak and so foolish,” she thought, “that + I cannot take a determination which affects me personally?” + </p> + <p> + She could not close her eyes all night; but in the morning her resolution + was settled. + </p> + <p> + And toward one o’clock: + </p> + <p> + “Are we not going out mother?” she said. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral was hesitating. + </p> + <p> + “These early spring days are treacherous,” she objected: + “you caught cold yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “My dress was too thin. To-day I have taken my precautions.” + </p> + <p> + They started, taking their work with them, and came to occupy their + accustomed seats. + </p> + <p> + Before they had even passed the gates, Mlle. Gilberte had recognized + Marius de Tregars and the Count de Villegre, walking in one of the side + alleys. Soon, as on the day before, they took two chairs, and + settled themselves within hearing. + </p> + <p> + Never had the young girl’s heart beat with such violence. It is easy + enough to take a resolution; but it is not always quite so easy to execute + it, and she was asking herself if she would have strength enough to + articulate a word. At last, gathering her whole courage: + </p> + <p> + “You don’t believe in dreams, do you mother?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + Upon this subject, as well as upon many others, Mme. Favoral had no + particular opinion. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you ask the question?” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Because I have had such a strange one.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “It seemed to me that suddenly a young man, whom I did not know, + stood before me. He would have been most happy, said he to me, to + ask my hand, but he dared not, being very poor. And he begged me to + wait three years, during which he would make his fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Why it’s quite a romance,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “But it wasn’t a romance in my dream,” interrupted Mlle. + Gilberte. “This young man spoke in a tone of such profound + conviction, that it was impossible for me, as it were, to doubt him. + I thought to myself that he would be incapable of such an odious villainy + as to abuse the confiding credulity of a poor girl.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did you answer him?” + </p> + <p> + Moving her seat almost imperceptibly, Mlle. Gilberte could, from the + corner of her eye, have a glimpse of M. de Tregars. Evidently he was + not missing a single one of the words which she was addressing to her + mother. He was whiter than a sheet; and his face betrayed the most + intense anxiety. + </p> + <p> + This gave her the energy to curb the last revolts of her conscience. + </p> + <p> + “To answer was painful,” she uttered; “and yet I—dared + to answer him. I said to him, ‘I believe you, and I have faith + in you. Loyally and faithfully I shall await your success; but until + then we must be strangers to one another. To resort to ruse, deceit, + and falsehood would be unworthy of us. You surely would not expose + to a suspicion her who is to be your wife.’” + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” approved Mme. Favoral; “only I did not know + you were so romantic.” + </p> + <p> + She was laughing, the good lady, but not loud enough to prevent Gilberte + from hearing M. de Tregars’ answer. + </p> + <p> + “Count de Villegre,” said he, “my old friend, receive + the oath which I take to devote my life to her who has not doubted me. + It is to-day the 4th of May, 1870—on the 4th of May, 1873, I shall + have succeeded: I feel it, I will it, it must be!” + </p> + <h2> + XV + </h2> + <p> + It was done: Gilberte Favoral had just irrevocably disposed of + herself. Prosperous or wretched, her destiny henceforth was linked + with another. She had set the wheel in motion; and she could no + longer hope to control its direction, any more than the will can pretend + to alter the course of the ivory ball upon the surface of the + roulette-table. At the outset of this great storm of passion which + had suddenly surrounded her, she felt an immense surprise, mingled with + unexplained apprehensions and vague terrors. + </p> + <p> + Around her, apparently, nothing was changed. Father, mother, + brother, friends, gravitated mechanically in their accustomed orbits. + The same daily facts repeated themselves monotonous and regular as the + tick-tack of the clock. + </p> + <p> + And yet an event had occurred more prodigious for her than the moving of a + mountain. + </p> + <p> + Often during the weeks that followed, she would repeat to herself, “Is + it true, is it possible even?” + </p> + <p> + Or else she would run to a mirror to make sure once more that nothing upon + her face or in her eyes betrayed the secret that palpitated within her. + </p> + <p> + The singularity of the situation was, moreover, well calculated to trouble + and confound her mind. + </p> + <p> + Mastered by circumstances, she had in utter disregard of all accepted + ideas, and of the commonest propriety, listened to the passionate promises + of a stranger, and pledged her life to him. And, the pact concluded + and solemnly sworn, they had parted without knowing when propitious + circumstances might bring them together again. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” thought she, “before God, M. de Tregars is + my betrothed husband; and yet we have never exchanged a word. Were + we to meet in society, we should be compelled to meet as strangers: + if he passes by me in the street, he has no right to bow to me. I + know not where he is, what becomes of him, nor what he is doing.” + </p> + <p> + And in fact she had not seen him again: he had given no sign of + life, so faithfully did he conform to her expressed wish. And + perhaps secretly, and without acknowledging it to herself, had she wished + him less scrupulous. Perhaps she would not have been very angry to + see him sometimes gliding along at her passage under the old Arcades of + the Rue des Vosges. + </p> + <p> + But, whilst suffering from this separation, she conceived for the + character of Marius the highest esteem; for she felt sure that he must + suffer as much and more than she from the restraint which he imposed upon + himself. + </p> + <p> + Thus he was ever present to her thoughts. She never tired of turning + over in her mind all he had said of his past life: she tried to + remember his words, and the very tone of his voice. + </p> + <p> + And by living constantly thus with the memory of Marius de Tregars, she + made herself familiar with him, deceived to that extent, by the illusion + of absence, that she actually persuaded herself that she knew him better + and better every day. + </p> + <p> + Already nearly a month had elapsed, when one afternoon, as she arrived on + the Place Royal; she recognized him, standing near that same bench where + they had so strangely exchanged their pledges. + </p> + <p> + He saw her coming too: she knew it by his looks. But, when she + had arrived within a few steps of him, he walked off rapidly, leaving on + the bench a folded newspaper. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral wished to call him back and return it; but Mlle. Gilberte + persuaded her not to. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind, mother,” said she, “it isn’t worth while; + and, besides, the gentleman is too far now.” + </p> + <p> + But while getting out her embroidery, with that dexterity which never + fails even the most naive girls, she slipped the newspaper in her + work-basket. + </p> + <p> + Was she not certain that it had been left there for her? + </p> + <p> + As soon as she had returned home, she locked herself up in her own room, + and, after searching for some time through the columns, she read at last: + </p> + <p> + “One of the richest and most intelligent manufacturers in Paris, M. + Marcolet, has just purchased in Grenelle the vast grounds belonging to the + Lacoche estate. He proposes to build upon them a manufacture of + chemical products, the management of which is to be placed in the hands of + M. de T—. + </p> + <p> + “Although still quite young, M. de T—— is already well + known in connection with his remarkable studies on electricity. He + was, perhaps, on the eve of solving the much controverted problem of + electricity as a motive-power, when his father’s ruin compelled him to + suspend his labors. He now seeks to earn by his personal industry + the means of prosecuting his costly experiments. + </p> + <p> + “He is not the first to tread this path. Is it not to the + invention of the machine bearing his name, that the engineer Giffard owes + the fortune which enables him to continue to seek the means of steering + balloons? Why should not M. de T—, who has as much skill and + energy, have as much luck?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! he does not forget me,” thought Mlle. Gilberte, moved to + tears by this article, which, after all, was but a mere puff, written by + Marcolet himself, without the knowledge of M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + She was still under that impression, thinking that Marius was already at + work, when her father announced to her that he had discovered a husband, + and enjoined her to find him to her liking, as he, the master, thought it + proper that she should. + </p> + <p> + Hence the energy of her refusal. + </p> + <p> + But hence also, the imprudent vivacity which had enlightened Mme. Favoral, + and which made her say: + </p> + <p> + “You hide something from me, Gilberte?” + </p> + <p> + Never had the young girl been so cruelly embarrassed as she was at this + moment by this sudden and unforeseen perspicacity. + </p> + <p> + Would she confide to her mother? + </p> + <p> + She felt, indeed, no repugnance to do so, certain as she was, in advance, + of the inexhaustible indulgence of the poor woman; and, besides, she would + have been delighted to have some one at last with whom she could speak of + Marius. + </p> + <p> + But she knew that her father was not the man to give up a project + conceived by himself. She knew that he would return to the charge + obstinately, without peace, and without truce. Now, as she was + determined to resist with a no less implacable obstinacy, she foresaw + terrible struggles, all sorts of violence and persecutions. + </p> + <p> + Informed of the truth, would Mme. Favoral have strength enough to resist + these daily storms? Would not a time come, when, called upon by her + husband to explain the refusals of her daughter, threatened, terrified, + she would confess all? + </p> + <p> + At one glance Mlle. Gilberte estimated the danger; and, drawing from + necessity an audacity which was very foreign to her nature: + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken, dear mother,” said she, “I have + concealed nothing from you.” + </p> + <p> + Not quite convinced, Mme. Favoral shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said she, “you will yield.” + </p> + <p> + “Never!” + </p> + <p> + “Then there must be some reason you do not tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “None, except that I do not wish to leave you. Have you ever + thought what would be your existence if I were no longer here? Have + you ever asked yourself what would become of you, between my father, whose + despotism will grow heavier with age, and my brother?” + </p> + <p> + Always prompt to defend her son: + </p> + <p> + “Maxence is not bad,” she interrupted: “he will + know how to compensate me for the sorrows he has inflicted upon me.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl made a gesture of doubt: + </p> + <p> + “I wish it, dear mother,” said she, “with all my heart; + but I dare not hope for it. His repentance to-night was great and + sincere; but will he remember it to-morrow? Besides, don’t you know + that father has fully resolved to separate himself from Maxence? + Think of yourself alone here with father.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral shuddered at the mere idea. + </p> + <p> + “I would not suffer very long,” she murmured. Mlle. + Gilberte kissed her. + </p> + <p> + “It is because I wish you to live to be happy that I refuse to + marry,” she exclaimed. “Must you not have your share of + happiness in this world? Let me manage. Who knows what + compensations the future may have in store for you? Besides, this + person whom father has selected for me does not suit me. A + stock-jobber, who would think of nothing but money,—who would + examine my house-accounts as papa does yours, or else who would load me + with cashmeres and diamonds, like Mme. de Thaller, to make of me a sign + for his shop? No, no! I want no such man. So, mother + dear, be brave, take sides boldly with your daughter, and we shall soon be + rid of this would-be husband.” + </p> + <p> + “Your father will bring him to you: he said he would.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, he is a man of courage, if he returns three times.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the parlor-door opened suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “What are you plotting here again?” cried the irritated voice + of the master. “And you, Mme. Favoral, why don’t you go to + bed?” + </p> + <p> + The poor slave obeyed, without saying a word. And, whilst making her + way to her room: + </p> + <p> + “There is trouble ahead,” thought Mlle. Gilberte. + “But bash! If I do have to suffer some, it won’t be great + harm, after all. Surely Marius does not complain, though he gives up + for me his dearest hopes, becomes the salaried employe of M. Marcolet, and + thinks of nothing but making money,—he so proud and so + disinterested!” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte’s anticipations were but too soon realized. When M. + Favoral made his appearance the next morning, he had the sombre brow and + contracted lips of a man who has spent the night ruminating a plan from + which he does not mean to swerve. + </p> + <p> + Instead of going to his office, as usual, without saying a word to any + one, he called his wife and children to the parlor; and, after having + carefully bolted all the doors, he turned to Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “I want you,” he commenced, “to give me a list of your + creditors. See that you forget none; and let it be ready as soon as + possible.” + </p> + <p> + But Maxence was no longer the same man. After the terrible and + well-deserved reproaches of his sister, a salutary revolution had taken + place in him. During the preceding night, he had reflected over his + conduct for the past four years; and he had been dismayed and terrified. + His impression was like that of the drunkard, who, having become sober, + remembers the ridiculous or degrading acts which he has committed under + the influence of alcohol, and, confused and humiliated, swears never more + to drink. + </p> + <p> + Thus Maxence had sworn to himself to change his mode of life, promising + that it would be no drunkard’s oath, either. And his attitude and + his looks showed the pride of great resolutions. + </p> + <p> + Instead of lowering his eyes before the irritated glance of M. Favoral, + and stammering excuses and vague promises: + </p> + <p> + “It is useless, father,” he replied, “to give you the + list you ask for. I am old enough to bear the responsibility of my + acts. I shall repair my follies: what I owe, I shall pay. + This very day I shall see my creditors, and make arrangements with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, Maxence,” exclaimed Mme. Favoral, delighted. + </p> + <p> + But there was no pacifying the cashier of the Mutual Credit. + </p> + <p> + “Those are fine-sounding words,” he said with a sneer; “but + I doubt if the tailors and the shirt-makers will take them in payment. + That’s why I want that list.” + </p> + <p> + “Still—” + </p> + <p> + “It’s I who shall pay. I do not mean to have another such + scene as that of yesterday in my office. It must not be said that my + son is a sharper and a cheat at the very moment when I find for my + daughter a most unhoped-for match.” + </p> + <p> + And, turning to Mlle. Gilberte: + </p> + <p> + “For I suppose you have got over your foolish ideas,” he + uttered. + </p> + <p> + The young girl shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “My ideas are the same as they were last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And so, father, I beg of you, do not insist. Why wrangle and + quarrel? You must know me well enough to know, that, whatever may + happen, I shall never yield.” + </p> + <p> + Indeed, M. Favoral was well aware of his daughter’s firmness; for he had + already been compelled on several occasions, as he expressed it himself, + “to strike his flag” before her. But he could not + believe that she would resist when he took certain means of enforcing his + will. + </p> + <p> + “I have pledged my word,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “But I have not pledged mine, father.” + </p> + <p> + He was becoming excited: his cheeks were flushed; and his little + eyes sparkled. + </p> + <p> + “And suppose I were to tell you,” he resumed, doing at least + to his daughter the honor of controlling his anger: “suppose I + were to tell you that I would derive from this marriage immense, positive, + and immediate advantages?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she interrupted with a look of disgust, “oh, for + mercy’s sake!” + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I were to tell you that I have a powerful interest in it; + that it is indispensable to the success of vast combinations?” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte looked straight at him. + </p> + <p> + “I would answer you,” she exclaimed, “that it does not + suit me to be made use of as an earnest to your combinations. Ah! + it’s an operation, is it? an enterprise, a big speculation? and you throw + in your daughter in the bargain as a bonus. Well, no! You can + tell your partner that the thing has fallen through.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral’s anger was growing with each word. + </p> + <p> + “I’ll see if I can’t make you yield,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “You may crush me, perhaps. Make me yield, never!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we shall see. You will see—Maxence and you—whether + there are no means by which a father can compel his rebellious children to + submit to his authority.” + </p> + <p> + And, feeling that he was no longer master of himself, he left, swearing + loud enough to shake the plaster from the stair-walls. + </p> + <p> + Maxence shook with indignation. + </p> + <p> + “Never,” he uttered, “never until now, had I understood + the infamy of my conduct. With a father such as ours, Gilberte, I + should be your protector. And now I am debarred even of the right to + interfere. But never mind, I have the will; and all will soon be + repaired.” + </p> + <p> + Left alone, a few moments after, Mlle. Gilberte was congratulating herself + upon her firmness. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure,” she thought, “Marius would approve, if he + knew.” + </p> + <p> + She had not long to wait for her reward. The bell rang: it was + her old professor, the Signor Gismondo Pulei, who came to give her his + daily lesson. + </p> + <p> + The liveliest joy beamed upon his face, more shriveled than an apple at + Easter; and the most magnificent anticipations sparkled in his eyes. + </p> + <p> + “I knew it, signora!” he exclaimed from the threshold: + “I knew that angels bring good luck. As every thing succeeds + to you, so must every thing succeed to those who come near you.” + </p> + <p> + She could not help smiling at the appropriateness of the compliment. + </p> + <p> + “Something fortunate has happened to you, dear master?” she + asked. + </p> + <p> + “That is to say, I am on the high-road to fortune and glory,” + he replied. “My fame is extending; pupils dispute the + privilege of my lesson.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte knew too well the thoroughly Italian exaggeration of the + worthy maestro to be surprised. + </p> + <p> + “This morning,” he went on, “visited by inspiration, I + had risen early, and I was working with marvelous facility, when there was + a knock at my door. I do not remember such an occurrence since the + blessed day when your worthy father called for me. Surprised, I + nevertheless said, ‘Come in;’ when there appeared a tall and + robust young man, proud and intelligent-looking.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl started. + </p> + <p> + “Marius!” cried a voice within her. + </p> + <p> + “This young man,” continued the old Italian, “had heard + me spoken of, and came to apply for lessons. I questioned him; and + from the first words I discovered that his education had been frightfully + neglected, that he was ignorant of the most vulgar notions of the divine + art, and that he scarcely knew the difference between a sharp and a + quaver. It was really the A, B, C, which he wished me to teach him. + Laborious task, ungrateful labor! But he manifested so much shame at + his ignorance, and so much desire to be instructed, that I felt moved in + his favor. Then his countenance was most winning, his voice of a + superior tone; and finally he offered me sixty francs a month. In + short, he is now my pupil.” + </p> + <p> + As well as she could, Mlle. Gilberte was hiding her blushes behind a + music-book. + </p> + <p> + “We remained over two hours talking,” said the good and simple + maestro, “and I believe that he has excellent dispositions. + Unfortunately, he can only take two lessons a week. Although a + nobleman, he works; and, when he took off his glove to hand me a month in + advance, I noticed that one of his hands was blackened, as if burnt by + some acid. But never mind, signora, sixty francs, together with what + your father gives me, it’s a fortune. The end of my career will be + spared the privations of its beginning. This young man will help + making me known. The morning has been dark; but the sunset will be + glorious.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl could no longer have any doubts: M. de Tregars had + found the means of hearing from her, and letting her hear from him. + </p> + <p> + The impression she felt contributed no little to give her the patience to + endure the obstinate persecution of her father, who, twice a day, never + failed to repeat to her: + </p> + <p> + “Get ready to properly receive my protege on Saturday. I have + not invited him to dinner: he will only spend the evening with us.” + </p> + <p> + And he mistook for a disposition to yield the cold tone in which she + answered: + </p> + <p> + “I beg you to believe that this introduction is wholly unnecessary.” + </p> + <p> + Thus, the famous day having come, he told his usual Saturday guests, M. + and Mme. Desclavettes, M. Chapelain, and old man Desormeaux: + </p> + <p> + “Eh, eh! I guess you are going to see a future son-in-law!” + </p> + <p> + At nine o’clock, just as they had passed into the parlor, the sound of + carriage-wheels startled the Rue St. Gilles. + </p> + <p> + “There he is!” exclaimed the cashier of the Mutual Credit. + </p> + <p> + And, throwing open a window: + </p> + <p> + “Come, Gilberte,” he added, “come and see his carriage + and horses.” + </p> + <p> + She never stirred; but M. Desclavettes and M. Chapelain ran. It was + night, unfortunately; and of the whole equipage nothing was visible but + the two lanterns that shone like stars. Almost at the same time the + parlor-door flew open; and the servant, who had been properly trained in + advance, announced: + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur Costeclar.” + </p> + <p> + Leaning toward Mme. Favoral, who was seated by her side on the sofa, + </p> + <p> + “A nice-looking man, isn’t he? a really nice-looking man,” + whispered Mme. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + And indeed he really thought so himself. Gesture, attitude, smile, + every thing in M. Costeclar, betrayed the satisfaction of self, and the + assurance of a man accustomed to success. His head, which was very + small, had but little hair left; but it was artistically drawn towards the + temples, parted in the middle, and cut short around the forehead. + His leaden complexion, his pale lips, and his dull eye, did not certainly + betray a very rich blood; he had a great long nose, sharp and curved like + a sickle; and his beard, of undecided color, trimmed in the Victor + Emmanuel style, did the greatest honor to the barber who cultivated it. + Even when seen for the first time, one might fancy that he recognized him, + so exactly was he like three or four hundred others who are seen daily in + the neighborhood of the Café Riche, who are met everywhere where + people run who pretend to amuse themselves,—at the bourse or in the + bois; at the first representations, where they are just enough hidden to + be perfectly well seen at the back of boxes filled with young ladies with + astonishing chignons; at the races; in carriages, where they drink + champagne to the health of the winner. + </p> + <p> + He had on this occasion hoisted his best looks, and the full dress <i>de + rigueur</i>—dress-coat with wide sleeves, shirt cut low in the neck, + and open vest, fastened below the waist by a single button. + </p> + <p> + “Quite the man of the world,” again remarked Mme. + Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral rushed toward him; and the latter, hastening, met him half way, + and, taking both his hands into his—“I cannot tell you, dear + friend,” he commenced, “how deeply I feel the honor you do me + in receiving me in the midst of your charming family and your respectable + friends.” + </p> + <p> + And he bowed all around during this speech, which he delivered in the + condescending tone of a lord visiting his inferiors. + </p> + <p> + “Let me introduce you to my wife,” interrupted the cashier. + And, leading him towards Mme. Favoral—“Monsieur Costeclar, my + dear,” said he: “the friend of whom we have spoken so + often.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar bowed, rounding his shoulders, bending his lean form in a + half-circle, and letting his arms hang forward. + </p> + <p> + “I am too much the friend of our dear Favoral, madame,” he + uttered, “not to have heard of you long since, nor to know your + merits, and the fact that he owes to you that peaceful happiness which he + enjoys, and which we all envy him.” + </p> + <p> + Standing by the mantel-piece, the usual Saturday evening guests followed + with the liveliest interest the evolutions of the pretender. Two of + them, M. Chapelain and old Desormeaux, were perfectly able to appreciate + him at his just value; but, in affirming that he made half a million a + year, M. Favoral had, as it were, thrown over his shoulders that famous + ducal cloak which concealed all deformities. + </p> + <p> + Without waiting for his wife’s answer, M. Favoral brought his protege in + front of Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + “Dear daughter,” said he, “Monsieur Costeclar, the + friend of whom I have spoken.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar bowed still lower, and rounded off his shoulders again; but + the young lady looked at him from head to foot with such a freezing + glance, that his tongue remained as if paralyzed in his mouth, and he + could only stammer out: + </p> + <p> + “Mademoiselle! the honor, the humblest of your admirers.” + </p> + <p> + Fortunately Maxence was standing three steps off—he fell back in + good order upon him, and seizing his hand, which he shook vigorously: + </p> + <p> + “I hope, my dear sir, that we shall soon be quite intimate friends. + Your excellent father, whose special concern you are, has often spoken to + me of you. Events, so he has confided to me, have not hitherto + responded to your expectations. At your age, this is not a very + grave matter. People, now-a-days, do not always find at the first + attempt the road that leads to fortune. You will find yours. + From this time forth I place at your command my influence and my + experience; and, if you will consent to take me for your guide—” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had withdrawn his hand. + </p> + <p> + “I am very much obliged to you, sir,” he answered coldly; + “but I am content with my lot, and I believe myself old enough to + walk alone.” + </p> + <p> + Almost any one would have lost countenance. But M. Costeclar was so + little put out, that it seemed as though he had expected just such a + reception. He turned upon his heels, and advanced towards M. + Favoral’s friends with a smile so engaging as to make it evident that he + was anxious to conquer their suffrages. + </p> + <p> + This was at the beginning of the month of June, 1870. No one as yet + could foresee the frightful disasters which were to mark the end of that + fatal year. And yet there was everywhere in France that indefinable + anxiety which precedes great social convulsions. The plebiscitum had + not succeeded in restoring confidence. Every day the most alarming + rumors were put in circulation and it was with a sort of passion that + people went in quest of news. + </p> + <p> + Now, M. Costeclar was a wonderfully well-posted man. He had, + doubtless, on his way, stopped on the Boulevard des Italiens, that blessed + ground where nightly the street-brokers labor for the financial prosperity + of the country. He had gone through the Passage de l’Opera, which + is, as is well known, the best market for the most correct and the most + reliable news. Therefore he might safely be believed. + </p> + <p> + Placing his back to the chimney, he had taken the lead in the + conversation; and he was talking, talking, talking. Being a “bull,” + he took a favorable view of every thing. He believed in the eternity + of the second empire. He sang the praise of the new cabinet: + he was ready to pour out his blood for Emile Ollivier. True, some + people complained that business was dull and slow; but those people, he + thought, were merely “bears.” Business had never been so + brilliant. At no time had prosperity been greater. Capital was + abundant. The institutions of credit were flourishing. + Securities were rising. Everybody’s pockets were full to bursting. + And the others listened in astonishment to this inexhaustible prattle, + this “gab,” more filled with gold spangles than Dantzig + cordial, with which the commercial travelers of the bourse catch their + customers. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly: + </p> + <p> + “But you must excuse me,” he said, rushing towards the other + end of the parlor. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral had just left the room to order tea to be brought in; and, + the seat by Mlle. Gilberte being vacant, M. Costeclar occupied it + promptly. + </p> + <p> + “He understands his business,” growled M. Desormeaux. + </p> + <p> + “Surely,” said M. Desclavettes, “if I had some funds to + dispose of just now.” + </p> + <p> + “I would be most happy to have him for my son-in-law,” + declared M. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + He was doing his best. Somewhat intimidated by Mlle. Gilberte’s + first look, he had now fully recovered his wits. + </p> + <p> + He commenced by sketching his own portrait. + </p> + <p> + He had just turned thirty, and had experienced the strong and the weak + side of life. He had had “successes,” but had tired of + them. Having gauged the emptiness of what is called pleasure, he + only wished now to find a partner for life, whose graces and virtues would + secure his domestic happiness. + </p> + <p> + He could not help noticing the absent look of the young girl; but he had, + thought he, other means of compelling her attention. And he went on, + saying that he felt himself cast of the metal of which model husbands are + made. His plans were all made in advance. His wife would be + free to do as she pleased. She would have her own carriage and + horses, her box at the Italiens and at the Opera, and an open account at + Worth’s and Van Klopen’s. As to diamonds, he would take care of + that. He meant that his wife’s display of wealth should be noticed; + and even spoken of in the newspapers. + </p> + <p> + Was this the terms of a bargain that he was offering? + </p> + <p> + If so, it was so coarsely, that Mlle. Gilberte, ignorant of life as she + was, wondered in what world it might be that he had met with so many + “successes.” And, somewhat indignantly: + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately,” she said, “the bourse is perfidious; + and the man who drives his own carriage to-day, to-morrow may have no + shoes to wear.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar nodded with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Exactly so,” said he. “A marriage protects one + against such reverses. + </p> + <p> + “Every man in active business, when he marries, settles upon his + wife reasonable fortune. I expect to settle six hundred thousand + francs upon mine.” + </p> + <p> + “So that, if you were to meet with an—accident?” + </p> + <p> + “We should enjoy our thirty thousand a year under the very nose of + the creditors.” + </p> + <p> + Blushing with shame, Mlle. Gilberte rose. + </p> + <p> + “But then,” said she, “it isn’t a wife that you are + looking for: it is an accomplice.” + </p> + <p> + He was spared the embarrassment of an answer, by the servant, who came in, + bringing in tea. He accepted a cup; and after two or three + anecdotes, judging that he had done enough for a first visit, he withdrew, + and a moment later they heard his carriage driving off at full gallop. + </p> + <h2> + XVI + </h2> + <p> + It was not without mature thought that M. Costeclar had determined to + withdraw, despite M. Favoral’s pressing overtures. However + infatuated he might be with his own merits, he had been compelled to + surrender to evidence, and to acknowledge that he had not exactly + succeeded with Mlle. Gilberte. But he also knew that he had the head + of the house on his side; and he flattered himself that he had produced an + excellent impression upon the guests of the house. + </p> + <p> + “Therefore,” had he said to himself, “if I leave first, + they will sing my praise, lecture the young person, and make her listen to + reason.” + </p> + <p> + He was not far from being right. Mme. Desclavettes had been + completely subjugated by the grand manners of this pretender; and M. + Desclavettes did not hesitate to affirm that he had rarely met any one who + pleased him more. + </p> + <p> + The others, M. Chapelain and old Desormeaux, did not, doubtless, share + this optimism; but M. Costeclar’s annual half-million obscured singularly + their clear-sightedness. + </p> + <p> + They thought perhaps, they had discovered in him some alarming features; + but they had full and entire confidence in their friend Favoral’s prudent + sagacity. + </p> + <p> + The particular and methodic cashier of the Mutual Credit was not apt to be + enthusiastic; and, if he opened the doors of his house to a young man, if + he was so anxious to have him for his son-in-law, he must evidently have + taken ample information. + </p> + <p> + Finally there are certain family matters from which sensible people keep + away as they would from the plague; and, on the question of marriage + especially, he is a bold man who would take side for or against. + </p> + <p> + Thus Mme. Desclavettes was the only one to raise her voice. Taking + Mlle. Gilberte’s hands within hers: + </p> + <p> + “Let me scold you, my dear,” said she, “for having + received thus a poor young man who was only trying to please you.” + </p> + <p> + Excepting her mother, too weak to take her defence, and her brother, who + was debarred from interfering, the young girl understood readily, that, in + that parlor, every one, overtly or tacitly, was against her. The + idea came to her mind to repeat there boldly what she had already told her + father that she was resolved not to marry, and that she would not marry, + not being one of those weak girls, without energy, whom they dress in + white, and drag to church against their will. + </p> + <p> + Such a bold declaration would be in keeping with her character. But + she feared a terrible, and perhaps degrading scene. The most + intimate friends of the family were ignorant of its most painful sores. + In presence of his friends, M. Favoral dissembled, speaking in a mild + voice, and assuming a kindly smile. Should she suddenly reveal the + truth? + </p> + <p> + “It is childish of you to run the risk of discouraging a clever + fellow who makes half a million a year,” continued the wife of the + old bronze-merchant, to whom such conduct seemed an abominable crime of <i>lese-money</i>. + Mlle. Gilberte had withdrawn her hands. + </p> + <p> + “You did not hear what he said, madame.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon: I was quite near, and involuntarily—” + </p> + <p> + “You have heard his—propositions?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly. He was promising you a carriage, a box at the + opera, diamonds, freedom. Isn’t that the dream of all young ladies?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not mine, madame!” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! What better can you wish? You must not expect + more from a husband than he can possibly give.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not what I shall expect of him.” + </p> + <p> + In a tone of paternal indulgence, which his looks belied: + </p> + <p> + “She is mad,” suggested M. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Tears of indignation filled Mlle. Gilberte’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Mme. Desclavettes,” she exclaimed, “forgets something. + She forgets that this gentleman dared to tell me that he proposed to + settle upon the woman he marries a large fortune, of which his creditors + would thus be cheated in case of his failure in business.” + </p> + <p> + She thought, in her simplicity, that a cry of indignation would rise at + these words. Instead of which: + </p> + <p> + “Well, isn’t it perfectly natural?” said M. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me more than natural,” insisted Mme. + Desclavettes, “that a man should be anxious to preserve from ruin + his wife and children.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course,” put in M. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Stepping resolutely toward her father: + </p> + <p> + “Have you, then, taken such precautions yourself?” demanded + Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + “No,” answered the cashier of the Mutual Credit. And, + after a moment of hesitation: + </p> + <p> + “But I am running no risks,” he added. “In + business, and when a man may be ruined by a mere rise or fall in stocks, + he would be insane indeed who did not secure bread for his family, and, + above all, means for himself, wherewith to commence again. The Baron + de Thaller did not act otherwise; and, should he meet with a disaster, + Mme. de Thaller would still have a handsome fortune.” + </p> + <p> + M. Desormeaux was, perhaps, the only one not to admit freely that theory, + and not to accept that ever-decisive reason, “Others do it.” + </p> + <p> + But he was a philosopher, and thought it silly not to be of his time. + He therefore contented himself with saying: + </p> + <p> + “Hum! M. de Thaller’s creditors might not think that mode of + proceeding entirely regular.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they might sue,” said M. Chapelain, laughing. + “People can always sue; only when the papers are well drawn—” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte stood dismayed. She thought of Marius de Tregars + giving up his mother’s fortune to pay his father’s debts. + </p> + <p> + “What would he say,” thought she, “should he hear such + opinions!” + </p> + <p> + The cashier of the Mutual Credit resumed: + </p> + <p> + “Surely I blame every species of fraud. But I pretend, and I + maintain, that a man who has worked twenty years to give a handsome dowry + to his daughter has the right to demand of his son-in-law certain + conservative measures to guarantee the money, which, after all, is his + own, and which is to benefit no one but his own family.” + </p> + <p> + This declaration closed the evening. It was getting late. The + Saturday guests put on their overcoats; and, as they were walking home, + </p> + <p> + “Can you understand that little Gilberte?” said Mme. + Desclavettes. “I’d like to see a daughter of mine have such + fancies! But her poor mother is so weak!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but friend Favoral is firm enough for both,” interrupted + M. Desormeaux; “and it is more than probable that at this very + moment he is correcting his daughter of the sin of sloth.” + </p> + <p> + Well, not at all. Extremely angry as M. Favoral must have been, + neither that evening, nor the next day, did he make the remotest allusion + to what had taken place. + </p> + <p> + The following Monday only, before leaving for his office, casting upon his + wife and daughter one of his ugliest looks: + </p> + <p> + “M. Costeclar owes us a visit,” said he; “and it + is possible that he may call in my absence. I wish him to be + admitted; and I forbid you to go out, so that you can have no pretext to + refuse him the door. I presume there will not be found in my house + any one bold enough to ill receive a man whom I like, and whom I have + selected for my son-in-law.” + </p> + <p> + But was it probable, was it even possible, that M. Costeclar could venture + upon such a step after Mlle. Gilberte’s treatment of him on the previous + Saturday evening? + </p> + <p> + “No, a thousand times no!” affirmed Maxence to his mother and + sister. “So you may rest easy.” + </p> + <p> + Indeed they tried to be, until that very afternoon the sound of + rapidly-rolling wheels attracted Mme. Favoral to the window. A + coupe, drawn by two gray horses, had just stopped at the door. + </p> + <p> + “It must be he,” she said to her daughter. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte had turned slightly pale. + </p> + <p> + “There is no help for it, mother,” she said: “You + must receive him.” + </p> + <p> + “And you?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall remain in my room.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you suppose he won’t ask for you?” + </p> + <p> + “You will answer that I am unwell. He will understand.” + </p> + <p> + “But your father, unhappy child, your father?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not acknowledge to my father the right of disposing of my + person against my wishes. I detest that man to whom he wishes to + marry me. Would you like to see me his wife, to know me given up to + the most intolerable torture? No, there is no violence in the world + that will ever wring my consent from me. So, mother dear, do what I + ask you. My father can say what he pleases: I take the whole + responsibility upon myself.” + </p> + <p> + There was no time to argue: the bell rang. Mlle. Gilberte had + barely time to escape through one of the doors of the parlor, whilst M. + Costeclar was entering at the other. + </p> + <p> + If he did have enough perspicacity to guess what had just taken place, he + did not in any way show it. He sat down; and it was only after + conversing for a few moments upon indifferent subjects, that he asked how + Mlle. Gilberte was. + </p> + <p> + “She is somewhat—unwell,” stammered Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + He did not appear surprised; only, + </p> + <p> + “Our dear Favoral,” he said, “will be still more pained + than I am when he hears of this mishap.” + </p> + <p> + Better than any other mother, Mme. Favoral must have understood and + approved Mlle. Gilberte’s invincible repugnance. To her also, when + she was young, her father had come one day, and said, “I have + discovered a husband for you.” She had accepted him blindly. + Bruised and wounded by daily outrages, she had sought refuge in marriage + as in a haven of safety. + </p> + <p> + And since, hardly a day had elapsed that she had not thought it would have + been better for her to have died rather then to have riveted to her neck + those fetters that death alone can remove. She thought, therefore, + that her daughter was perfectly right. And yet twenty years of + slavery had so weakened the springs of her energy, that under the glance + of Costeclar, threatening her with her husband’s name, she felt + embarrassed, and could scarcely stammer some timid excuses. And she + allowed him to prolong his visit, and consequently her torment, for over + an half an hour; then, when he had gone, + </p> + <p> + “He and your father understand each other,” said she to her + daughter, “that is but too evident. What is the use of + struggling?” + </p> + <p> + A fugitive blush colored the pale cheeks of Mlle. Gilberte. For the + past forty-eight hours she had been exhausting herself, seeking an issue + to an impossible situation; and she had accustomed her mind to the worst + eventualities. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish me, then, to desert the paternal roof?” she + exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral almost dropped on the floor. + </p> + <p> + “You would run away,” she stammered, “you!” + </p> + <p> + “Rather than become that man’s wife, yes!” + </p> + <p> + “And where would you go, unfortunate child? what would you do?” + </p> + <p> + “I can earn my living.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral shook her head sadly. The same suspicions were reviving + within her that she had felt once before. + </p> + <p> + “Gilberte,” she said in a beseeching tone, “am I, then, + no longer your best friend? and will you not tell me from what sources you + draw your courage and your resolution?” + </p> + <p> + And, as her daughter said nothing: + </p> + <p> + “God alone knows what may happen!” sighed the poor woman. + </p> + <p> + Nothing happened, but what could have been easily foreseen. When M. + Favoral came home to dinner, he was whistling a perfect storm on the + stairs. He abstained at first from all recrimination; but towards + the end of the meal, with the most sarcastic look he could assume: + </p> + <p> + “It seems,” he said to his daughter, “that you were + unwell this afternoon?” + </p> + <p> + Bravely, and without flinching, she sustained his look; and, in a firm + voice: + </p> + <p> + “I shall always be indisposed,” she replied, “when M. + Costeclar calls. You hear me, don’t you, father—always!” + </p> + <p> + But the cashier of the Credit Mutual was not one of those men whose wrath + finds vent in mere sarcasms. Rising suddenly to his feet: + </p> + <p> + “By the holy heavens!” he screamed forth, “you are wrong + to trifle thus with my will; for, all of you here, I shall crush you as I + do this glass.” + </p> + <p> + And, with a frenzied gesture, he dashed the glass he held in his hand + against the wall, where it broke in a thousand pieces. Trembling + like a leaf, Mme. Favoral staggered upon her chair. + </p> + <h2> + XVII + </h2> + <p> + “Better kill her at once,” said Mlle. Gilberte coldly. + “She would suffer less.” + </p> + <p> + It was by a torrent of invective that M. Favoral replied. His rage, + dammed up for the past four days, finding at last an outlet, flowed in + gross insults and insane threats. He spoke of throwing out in the + street his wife and children, or starving them out, or shutting up his + daughter in a house of correction; until at last, language failing his + fury, beside himself, he left, swearing that he would bring M. Costeclar + home himself, and then they would see. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, we shall see,” said Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + Motionless in his place, and white as a plaster cast, Maxence had + witnessed this lamentable scene. A gleam of common-sense had enabled + him to control his indignation, and to remain silent. He had + understood, that, at the first word, his father’s fury would have turned + against him; and then what might have happened? The most frightful + dramas of the criminal courts have often had no other origin. + </p> + <p> + “No, this is no longer bearable!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + Even at the time of his greatest follies, Maxence had always had for his + sister a fraternal affection. He admired her from the day she had + stood up before him to reproach him for his misconduct. He envied + her her quiet determination, her patient tenacity, and that calm energy + that never failed her. + </p> + <p> + “Have patience, my poor Gilberte,” he added: “the + day is not far, I hope, when I may commence to repay you all you have done + for me. I have not lost my time since you restored me my reason. + I have arranged with my creditors. I have found a situation, which, + if not brilliant, is at least sufficiently lucrative to enable me before + long to offer you, as well as to our mother, a peaceful retreat.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is to-morrow,” interrupted Mme. Favoral, “to-morrow + that your father is to bring M. Costeclar. He has said so, and he + will do it.” + </p> + <p> + And so he did. About two o’clock in the afternoon M. Favoral and his + protege arrived in the Rue St. Gilles, in that famous coupe with the two + horses, which excited the wonder of the neighbors. + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Gilberte had her plan ready. She was on the lookout; and, + as soon as she heard the carriage stop, she ran to her room, undressed in + a twinkling, and went to bed. + </p> + <p> + When her father came for her, and saw her in bed, he remained surprised + and puzzled on the threshold of the door. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I’ll make you come into the parlor!” he said in a + hoarse voice. + </p> + <p> + “Then you must carry me there as I am,” she said in a tone of + defiance; “for I shall certainly not get up.” + </p> + <p> + For the first time since his marriage, M. Favoral met in his own house a + more inflexible will than his own, and a more unyielding obstinacy. + He was baffled. He threatened his daughter with his clinched fists, + but could discover no means of making her obey. He was compelled to + surrender, to yield. + </p> + <p> + “This will be settled with the rest,” he growled, as he went + out. + </p> + <p> + “I fear nothing in the world, father,” said the girl. + </p> + <p> + It was almost true, so much did the thought of Marius de Tregars inflame + her courage. Twice already she had heard from him through the Signor + Gismondo Pulei, who never tired talking of this new pupil, to whom he had + already given two lessons. + </p> + <p> + “He is the most gallant man in the world,” he said, his eye + sparkling with enthusiasm, “and the bravest, and the most generous, + and the best; and no quality that can adorn one of God’s creatures shall + be wanting in him when I have taught him the divine art. It is not + with a little contemptible gold that he means to reward my zeal. To + him I am as a second father; and it is with the confidence of a son that + he explains to me his labors and his hopes.” + </p> + <p> + Thus Mlle. Gilberte learned through the old maestro, that the newspaper + article she had read was almost exactly true, and that M. de Tregars and + M. Marcolet had become associated for the purpose of working, in joint + account, certain recent discoveries, which bid fair to yield large profits + in a near future. + </p> + <p> + “And yet it is for my sake alone that he has thus thrown himself + into the turmoil of business, and has become as eager for gain as that M. + Marcolet himself.” + </p> + <p> + And, at the height of her father’s persecutions, she felt glad of what she + had done, and of her boldness in placing her destiny in the hands of a + stranger. The memory of Marius had become her refuge, the element of + all her dreams and of all her hopes; in a word, her life. + </p> + <p> + It was of Marius she was thinking, when her mother, surprising her gazing + into vacancy, would ask her, “What are you thinking of?” + And, at every new vexation she had to endure, her imagination decked him + with a new quality, and she clung to him with a more desperate grasp. + </p> + <p> + “How much he would grieve,” thought she, “if he knew of + what persecution I am the object!” + </p> + <p> + And very careful was she not to allow the Signor Gismondo Pulei to suspect + any thing of it, affecting, on the contrary, in his presence, the most + cheerful serenity. + </p> + <p> + And yet she was a prey to the most cruel anxiety, since she observed a new + and most incredible transformation in her father. + </p> + <p> + That man so violent and so harsh, who flattered himself never to have been + bent, who boasted never to have forgotten or forgiven any thing, that + domestic tyrant, had become quite a debonair personage. He had + referred to the expedient imagined by Mlle. Gilberte only to laugh at it, + saying that it was a good trick, and he deserved it; for he repented + bitterly, he protested, his past brutalities. + </p> + <p> + He owned that he had at heart his daughter’s marriage with M. Costeclar; + but he acknowledged that he had made use of the surest means for making it + fail. He should, he humbly confessed, have expected every thing of + time and circumstances, of M. Costeclar’s excellent qualities, and of his + beautiful, darling daughter’s good sense. + </p> + <p> + More than of all his violence, Mme. Favoral was terrified at this affected + good nature. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” she sighed, “what does it all mean?” + </p> + <p> + But the cashier of the Mutual Credit was not preparing any new surprise to + his family. If the means were different, it was still the same + object that he was pursuing with the tenacity of an insect. When + severity had failed, he hoped to succeed by gentleness, that’s all. + Only this assumption of hypocritical meekness was too new to him to + deceive any one. At every moment the mask fell off, the claws + showed, and his voice trembled with ill-suppressed rage in the midst of + his most honeyed phrases. + </p> + <p> + Moreover, he entertained the strangest illusions. Because for + forty-eight hours he had acted the part of a good-natured man, because one + Sunday he had taken his wife and daughter out riding in the Bois de + Vincennes, because he had given Maxence a hundred-franc note, he imagined + that it was all over, that the past was obliterated, forgotten, and + forgiven. + </p> + <p> + And, drawing Gilberte upon his knees, + </p> + <p> + “Well, daughter,” he said, “you see that I don’t + importune you any more, and I leave you quite free. I am more + reasonable than you are.” + </p> + <p> + But on the other hand, and according to an expression which escaped him + later, he tried to turn the enemy. + </p> + <p> + He did every thing in his power to spread in the neighborhood the rumor of + Mlle. Gilberte’s marriage with a financier of colossal wealth,—that + elegant young man who came in a coupe with two horses. Mme. Favoral + could not enter a shop without being covertly complimented upon having + found such a magnificent establishment for her daughter. + </p> + <p> + Loud, indeed, must have been the gossip; for its echo reached even the + inattentive ears of the Signor Gismondo Pulei. + </p> + <p> + One day, suddenly interrupting his lesson,—“You are going to + be married, signora?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte started. + </p> + <p> + What the old Italian had heard, he would surely ere long repeat to Marius. + It was therefore urgent to undeceive him. + </p> + <p> + “It is true,” she replied, “that something has been said + about a marriage, dear maestro.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ah!” + </p> + <p> + “Only my father had not consulted me. That marriage will never + take place: I swear it.” + </p> + <p> + She expressed herself in a tone of such ardent conviction, that the old + gentleman was quite astonished, little dreaming that it was not to him + that this energetic denial was addressed. + </p> + <p> + “My destiny is irrevocably fixed,” added Mlle. Gilberte. + “When I marry, I will consult the inspirations of my heart only.” + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, it was a veritable conspiracy against her. M. + Favoral had succeeded in interesting in the success of his designs his + habitual guests, not M. and Mme. Desclavettes, who had been seduced from + the first, but M. Chapelain and old Desormeaux himself. So that they + all vied with each other in their efforts to bring the “dear child” + to reason, and to enlighten her with their counsels. + </p> + <p> + “Father must have a still more considerable interest in this + alliance than he has allowed us to think,” she remarked to her + brother. Maxence was also absolutely of the same opinion. + </p> + <p> + “And then,” he added, “our father must be terribly rich; + for, do not deceive yourself, it isn’t solely for your pretty blue eyes + that this Costeclar persists in coming here twice a week to pocket a new + mortification. What enormous dowry can he be hoping for? I am + going to speak to him myself, and try to find out what he is after.” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Gilberte had but slight confidence in her brother’s diplomacy. + </p> + <p> + “I beg of you,” she said, “don’t meddle with that + business!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, I will! Fear nothing, I’ll be prudent.” + </p> + <p> + Having taken his resolution, Maxence placed himself on the lookout; and + the very next day, as M. Costeclar was stepping out of his carriage at the + door, he walked straight up to him. + </p> + <p> + “I wish to speak to you, sir,” he said. Self-possessed + as he was, the brilliant financier succeeded but poorly in concealing a + surprise that looked very much like fright. + </p> + <p> + “I am going in to call on your parents, sir,” he replied; + “and whilst waiting for your father, with whom I have an + appointment, I shall be at your command.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no!” interrupted Maxence. “What I have to say + must be heard by you alone. Come along this way, and we shall not be + interrupted.” + </p> + <p> + And he led M. Costeclar away as far as the Place Royal. Once there, + </p> + <p> + “You are very anxious to marry my sister, sir,” he commenced. + </p> + <p> + During their short walk M. Costeclar had recovered himself. He had + resumed all his impertinent assurance. Looking at Maxence from head + to foot with any thing but a friendly look, + </p> + <p> + “It is my dearest and my most ardent wish, sir,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “Very well. But you must have noticed the very slight success, + to use no harsher word, of your assiduities.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” + </p> + <p> + “And, perhaps, you will judge, like myself, that it would be the act + of a gentleman to withdraw in presence of such positive repugnance?” + </p> + <p> + An ugly smile was wandering upon M. Costeclar’s pale lips. + </p> + <p> + “Is it at the request of your sister, sir, that you make me this + communication?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you aware whether your sister has some inclination that may be + an obstacle to the realization of my hopes?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me! What I say has nothing to offend. It might + very well be that your sister, before I had the honor of being introduced + to her, had already fixed her choice.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke so loud, that Maxence looked sharply around to see whether there + was not some one within hearing. He saw no one but a young man, who + seemed quite absorbed reading a newspaper. + </p> + <p> + “But, sir,” he resumed, “what would you answer, if I, + the brother of the young lady whom you wish to marry against her wishes,—I + called upon you to cease your assiduities?” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar bowed ceremoniously, + </p> + <p> + “I would answer you, sir,” he uttered, “that your + father’s assent is sufficient for me. My suit has nothing but is + honorable. Your sister may not like me: that is a misfortune; + but it is not irreparable. When she knows me better, I venture to + hope that she will overcome her unjust prejudices. Therefore I shall + persist.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence insisted no more. He was irritated at M. Costeclar’s + coolness; but it was not his intention to push things further. + </p> + <p> + “There will always be time,” he thought, “to resort to + violent measures.” + </p> + <p> + But when he reported this conversation to his sister, + </p> + <p> + “It is clear,” he said, “that, between our father and + that man, there is a community of interests which I am unable to discover. + What business have they together? In what respect can your marriage + either help or injure them? I must see, try and find out exactly who + is this Costeclar: the deuse take him!” + </p> + <p> + He started out the same day, and had not far to go. + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar was one of those personalities which only bloom in Paris, and + are only met in Paris,—the same as cab-horses, and young ladies with + yellow chignons. + </p> + <p> + He knew everybody, and everybody knew him. + </p> + <p> + He was well known at the bourse, in all the principal restaurants, where + he called the waiters by their first names, at the box-office of the + theatres, at all the pool-rooms, and at the European Club, otherwise + called the Nomadic Club, of which he was a member. + </p> + <p> + He operated at the bourse: that was sure. He was said to own a + third interest in a stock-broker’s office. He had a good deal of + business with M. Jottras, of the house of Jottras and Brother, and M. + Saint Pavin, the manager of a very popular journal, “The Financial + Pilot.” + </p> + <p> + It was further known that he had on Rue Vivienne, a magnificent apartment, + and that he had successively honored with his liberal protection Mlle. + Sidney of the Varieties, and Mme. Jenny Fancy, a lady of a certain age + already, but so situated as to return to her lovers in notoriety what they + gave her in good money. So much did Maxence learn without + difficulty. As to any more precise details, it was impossible to + obtain them. To his pressing questions upon M. Costeclar’s + antecedents, + </p> + <p> + “He is a perfectly honest man,” answered some. + </p> + <p> + “He is simply a speculator,” affirmed others. + </p> + <p> + But all agreed that he was a sharp one; who would surely make his fortune, + and without passing through the police-courts, either. + </p> + <p> + “How can our father and such a man be so intimately connected?” + wondered Maxence and his sister. + </p> + <p> + And they were lost in conjectures, when suddenly, at an hour when he never + set his foot in the house, M. Favoral appeared. + </p> + <p> + Throwing a letter upon his daughter’s lap, + </p> + <p> + “See what I have just received from Costeclar,” he said in a + hoarse voice. “Read.” + </p> + <p> + She read, “Allow me, dear friend, to release you from your + engagement. Owing to circumstances absolutely beyond my control, I + find myself compelled to give up the honor of becoming a member of your + family.” + </p> + <p> + What could have happened? + </p> + <p> + Standing in the middle of the parlor, the cashier of the Mutual Credit + held, bowed down beneath his glance, his wife and children, Mme. Favoral + trembling, Maxence starting in mute surprise, and Mlle. Gilberte, who + needed all the strength of her will to control the explosion of her + immense joy. + </p> + <p> + Every thing in M. Favoral betrayed, nevertheless, much more the excitement + of a disaster than the rage of a deception. + </p> + <p> + Never had his family seen him thus,—livid, his cravat undone, his + hair wet with perspiration, and clinging to his temples. + </p> + <p> + “Will you please explain this letter?” he asked at last. + </p> + <p> + And, as no one answered him, he took up that letter again from the table + where Mlle. Gilberte had laid it, and commenced reading it again, scanning + each syllable, as if in hopes of discovering in each word some hidden + meaning. + </p> + <p> + “What did you say to Costeclar?” he resumed, “what did + you do to him to make him take such a determination?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” answered Maxence and Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + The hope of being at last rid of that man inspired Mme. Favoral with + something like courage. + </p> + <p> + “He has doubtless understood,” she meekly suggested, “that + he could not triumph over our daughter’s repugnance.” + </p> + <p> + But her husband interrupted her, + </p> + <p> + “No,” he uttered, “Costeclar is not the man to trouble + himself about the ridiculous caprices of a little girl. There is + something else. But what is it? Come, if you know it, any of + you, if you suspect it even, speak, say it. You must see that I am + in a state of fearful anxiety.” + </p> + <p> + It was the first time that he thus allowed something to appear of what was + passing within him, the first time that he ever complained. + </p> + <p> + “M. Costeclar alone, father, can give you the explanation you + ask of us,” said Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + The cashier of the Mutual Credit shook his head. “Do you + suppose, then, that I have not questioned him? I found his letter + this morning at the office. At once I ran to his apartments, Rue + Vivienne. He had just gone out; and it is in vain that I called for + him at Jottras’, and at the office of ‘The Financial Pilot.’ + I found him at last at the bourse, after running three hours. But I + could only get from him evasive answers and vague explanations. Of + course he did not fail to say, that, if he does withdraw, it is because he + despairs of ever succeeding in pleasing Gilberte. But it isn’t so: + I know it; I am sure of it; I read it in his eyes. Twice his lips + moved as if he were about to confess all; and then he said nothing. + And the more I insisted, the more he seemed ill at ease, embarrassed, + uneasy, troubled, the more he appeared to me like a man who has been + threatened, and dares not brave the threat.” + </p> + <p> + He directed upon his children one of those obstinate looks which search + the inmost depths of the conscience. + </p> + <p> + “If you have done any thing to drive him off,” he resumed, + “confess it frankly, and I swear I will not reproach you.” + </p> + <p> + “We did not.” + </p> + <p> + “You did not threaten him?” + </p> + <p> + “No!” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral seemed appalled. + </p> + <p> + “Doubtless you deceive me,” he said, “and I hope you do. + Unhappy children! you do not know what this rupture may cost you.” + </p> + <p> + And, instead of returning to his office, he shut himself up in that little + room which he called his study, and only came out of it at about five + o’clock, holding under his arm an enormous bundle of papers, and saying + that it was useless to wait for him for dinner, as he would not come home + until late in the night, if he came home at all, being compelled to make + up for his lost day. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with your father, my poor children?” + exclaimed Mme. Favoral. “I have never seen him in such a + state.” + </p> + <p> + “Doubtless,” replied Maxence, “the rupture with + Costeclar is going to break up some combination.” + </p> + <p> + But that explanation did not satisfy him any more than it did his mother. + He, too, felt a vague apprehension of some impending misfortune. But + what? He had nothing upon which to base his conjectures. He + knew nothing, any more than his mother, of his father’s affairs, of his + relations, of his interests, or even of his life, outside the house. + </p> + <p> + And mother and son lost themselves in suppositions as vain as if they had + tried to find the solution of a problem, without possessing its terms. + </p> + <p> + With a single word Mlle. Gilberte thought she might have enlightened them. + </p> + <p> + In the unerring certainty of the blow, in the crushing promptness of the + result, she thought she could recognize the hand of Marius de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + She recognized the hand of the man who acts, and does not talk. And + the girl’s pride felt flattered by this victory, by this proof of the + powerful energy of the man whom, unknown to all, she had selected. + She liked to imagine Marius de Tregars and M. Costeclar in presence of + each other,—the one as imperious and haughty as she had seen him + meek and trembling; the other more humble still than he was arrogant with + her. + </p> + <p> + “One thing is certain,” she repeated to herself; “and + that is, I am saved.” + </p> + <p> + And she wished the morrow to come, that she might announce her happiness + to the very involuntary and very unconscious accomplice of Marius, the + worthy Maestro Gismondo Pulei. + </p> + <p> + The next day M. Favoral seemed to have resigned himself to the failure of + his projects; and, the following Saturday, he told as a pleasant joke, how + Mlle. Gilberte had carried the day, and had managed to dismiss her lover. + </p> + <p> + But a close observer could discover in him symptoms of devouring cares. + Deep wrinkles showed along his temples; his eyes were sunken; a continued + tension of mind contracted his features. Often during the dinner he + would remain motionless for several minutes, his fork aloft; and then he + would murmur, “How is it all going to end?” + </p> + <p> + Sometimes in the morning, before his departure for his office, M. Jottras, + of the house of Jottras and Brother, and M. Saint Pavin, the manager of + “The Financial Pilot,” came to see him. They closeted + themselves together, and remained for hours in conference, speaking so + low, that not even a vague murmur could be heard outside the door. + </p> + <p> + “Your father has grave subjects of anxiety, my children,” said + Mme. Favoral: “you may believe me,—me, who for twenty + years have been trying to guess our fate upon his countenance.” + </p> + <p> + But the political events were sufficient to explain any amount of anxiety. + It was the second week of July, 1870; and the destinies of France + trembled, as upon a cast of the dice, in the hands of a few presumptuous + incapables. Was it war with Prussia, or was it peace, that was to + issue from the complications of a childishly astute policy? + </p> + <p> + The most contradictory rumors caused daily at the bourse the most violent + oscillations, which endangered the safest fortunes. A few words + uttered in a corridor by Emile Ollivier had made a dozen heavy operators + rich, but had ruined five hundred small ones. On all hands, credit + was trembling. + </p> + <p> + Until one evening when he came home, + </p> + <p> + “War is declared,” said M. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + It was but too true; and no one then had any fears of the result for + France. They had so much exalted the French army, they had so often + said that it was invincible, that every one among the public expected a + series of crushing victories. + </p> + <p> + Alas! the first telegram announced a defeat. People refused to + believe it at first. But there was the evidence. The soldiers + had died bravely; but the chiefs had been incapable of leading them. + </p> + <p> + From that time, and with a vertiginous rapidity, from day to day, from + hour to hour, the fatal news came crowding on. Like a river that + overflows its banks, Prussia was overrunning France. Bazaine was + surrounded at Metz; and the capitulation of Sedan capped the climax of so + many disasters. + </p> + <p> + At last, on the 4th of September, the republic was proclaimed. + </p> + <p> + On the 5th, when the Signor Gismondo Pulei presented himself at Rue St. + Gilles, his face bore such an expression of anguish, that Mlle. Gilberte + could not help asking what was the matter. + </p> + <p> + He rose on that question, and, threatening heaven with his clinched fist, + </p> + <p> + “Implacable fate does not tire to persecute me,” he replied. + “I had overcome all obstacles: I was happy: I was + looking forward to a future of fortune and glory. No, the dreadful + war must break out.” + </p> + <p> + For the worthy maestro, this terrible catastrophe was but a new caprice of + his own destiny. + </p> + <p> + “What has happened to you?” inquired the young girl, + repressing a smile. + </p> + <p> + “It happens to me, signora, that I am about to lose my beloved + pupil. He leaves me; he forsakes me. In vain have I thrown + myself at his feet. My tears have not been able to detain him. + He is going to fight; he leaves; he is a soldier!” + </p> + <p> + Then it was given to Mlle. Gilberte to see clearly within her soul. + Then she understood how absolutely she had given herself up, and to what + extent she had ceased to belong to herself. + </p> + <p> + Her sensation was terrible, such as if her whole blood had suddenly + escaped through her open arteries. She turned pale, her teeth + chattered; and she seemed so near fainting, that the Signor Gismondo + sprang to the door, crying, “Help, help! she is dying.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral, frightened, came running in. But already, thanks to an + all-powerful projection of will, Mlle. Gilberte had recovered, and, + smiling a pale smile, + </p> + <p> + “It’s nothing, mamma,” she said. “A sudden pain in + the head; but it’s gone already.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy maestro was in perfect agony. Taking Mme. Favoral aside, + </p> + <p> + “It is my fault,” he said. “It is the story of my + unheard-of misfortunes that has upset her thus. Monstrous egotist + that I am! I should have been careful of her exquisite sensibility.” + </p> + <p> + She insisted, nevertheless, upon taking her lesson as usual, and recovered + enough presence of mind to extract from the Signor Gismondo everything + that his much-regretted pupil had confided to him. + </p> + <p> + That was not much. He knew that his pupil had gone, like anyone + else, to Rue de Cherche Midi; that he had signed an engagement; and had + been ordered to join a regiment in process of formation near Tours. + And, as he went out, + </p> + <p> + “That is nothing,” said the kind maestro to Mme. Favoral. + “The signora has quite recovered, and is as gay as a lark.” + </p> + <p> + The signora, shut up in her room, was shedding bitter tears. She + tried to reason with herself, and could not succeed. Never had the + strangeness of her situation so clearly appeared to her. She + repeated to herself that she must be mad to have thus become attached to a + stranger. She wondered how she could have allowed that love, which + was now her very life, to take possession of her soul. But to what + end? It no longer rested with her to undo what had been done. + </p> + <p> + When she thought that Marius de Tregars was about to leave Paris to become + a soldier, to fight, to die perhaps, she felt her head whirl; she saw + nothing around her but despair and chaos. + </p> + <p> + And, the more she thought, the more certain she felt that Marius could not + have trusted solely to the chance gossip of the Signor Pulei to + communicate to her his determination. + </p> + <p> + “It is perfectly inadmissible,” she thought. “It + is impossible that he will not make an effort to see me before going.” + </p> + <p> + Thoroughly imbued with the idea, she wiped her eyes, took a seat by an + open window; and, whilst apparently busy with her work, she concentrated + her whole attention upon the street. + </p> + <p> + There were more people out than usual. The recent events had stirred + Paris to its lowest depths, and, as from the crater of a volcano in labor, + all the social scoriae rose to the surface. Men of sinister + appearance left their haunts, and wandered through the city. The + workshops were all deserted; and people strolled at random, stupor or + terror painted on their countenance. But in vain did Mlle. Gilberte + seek in all this crowd the one she hoped to see. The hours went by, + and she was getting discouraged, when suddenly, towards dusk, at the + corner of the Rue Turenne, + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis he,” cried a voice within her. + </p> + <p> + It was, in fact, M. de Tregars. He was walking towards the + Boulevard, slowly, and his eyes raised. + </p> + <p> + Palpitating, the girl rose to her feet. She was in one of those + moments of crisis when the blood, rushing to the brain, smothers all + judgment. Unconscious, as it were, of her acts, she leaned over the + window, and made a sign to Marius, which he understood very well, and + which meant, “Wait, I am coming down.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you going, dear?” asked Mme. Favoral, seeing + Gilberte putting on her bonnet. + </p> + <p> + “To the shop, mamma, to get a shade of worsted I need.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte was not in the habit of going out alone; but it happened + quite often that she would go down in the neighborhood on some little + errand. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish the girl to go out with you?” asked Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, it isn’t worth while!” + </p> + <p> + She ran down the stairs; and once out, regardless of the looks that might + be watching her, she walked straight to M. de Tregars, who was waiting on + the corner of the Rue des Minimes. + </p> + <p> + “You are going away?” she said, too much agitated to notice + his own emotion, which was, however, quite evident. + </p> + <p> + “I must,” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “When France is invaded, the place for a man who bears my name is + where the fighting is.” + </p> + <p> + “But there will be fighting in Paris too.” + </p> + <p> + “Paris has four times as many defenders as it needs. It is + outside that soldiers will be wanted.” + </p> + <p> + They walked slowly, as they spoke thus, along the Rue des Minimes, one of + the least frequented in Paris; and there were only to be seen at this hour + five or six soldiers talking in front of the barracks gate. + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I were to beg you not to go,” resumed Mlle. Gilberte. + “Suppose I beseeched you, Marius!” + </p> + <p> + “I should remain then,” he answered in a troubled voice; + “but I would be betraying my duty, and failing to my honor; and + remorse would weigh upon our whole life. Command now, and I will + obey.” + </p> + <p> + They had stopped; and no one seeing them standing there side by side + affectionate and familiar could have believed that they were speaking to + each other for the first time. They themselves did not notice it, so + much had they come, with the help of all-powerful imagination, and in + spite of separation, to the understanding of intimacy. After a + moment of painful reflection, + </p> + <p> + “I do not ask you any longer to stay,” uttered the young girl. + He took her hand, and raised it to his lips. + </p> + <p> + “I expected no less of your courage,” he said, his voice + vibrating with love. But he controlled himself, and, in a more quiet + tone, + </p> + <p> + “Thanks to the indiscretion of Pulei,” he added, “I was + in hopes of seeing you, but not to have the happiness of speaking to you. + I had written—” + </p> + <p> + He drew from his pocket a large envelope, and, handing it to Mlle. + Gilberte, + </p> + <p> + “Here is the letter,” he continued, “which I intended + for you. It contains another, which I beg you to preserve carefully, + and not to open unless I do not return. I leave you in Paris a + devoted friend, the Count de Villegre. Whatever may happen to you, + apply to him with all confidence, as you would to myself.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte, staggering, leaned against the wall. + </p> + <p> + “When do you expect to leave?” she inquired. + </p> + <p> + “This very night. Communications may be cut off at any moment.” + </p> + <p> + Admirable in her sorrow, but also full of energy, the poor girl looked up, + and held out her hand to him. + </p> + <p> + “Go then,” she said, “O my only friend! go, since honor + commands. But do not forget that it is not your life alone that you + are going to risk.” + </p> + <p> + And, fearing to burst into sobs, she fled, and reached the Rue St. Gilles + a few moments before her father, who had gone out in quest of news. + </p> + <p> + Those he brought home were of the most sinister kind. + </p> + <p> + Like the rising tide, the Prussians spread and advanced, slowly, but + steadily. Their marches were numbered; and the day and hour could be + named when their flood would come and strike the walls of Paris. + </p> + <p> + And so, at all the railroad stations, there was a prodigious rush of + people who wished to leave at any cost, in any way, in the baggage-car if + needs be, and who certainly were not, like Marius, rushing to meet the + enemy. + </p> + <p> + One after another, M. Favoral had seen nearly every one he knew take + flight. + </p> + <p> + The Baron and Baroness de Thaller and their daughter had gone to + Switzerland; M. Costeclar was traveling in Belgium; the elder Jottras was + in England, buying guns and cartridge; and if the younger Jottras, with M. + Saint Pavin of “The Financial Pilot,” remained in Paris, it + was because, through the gallant influence of a lady whose name was not + mentioned, they had obtained some valuable contracts from the government. + </p> + <p> + The perplexities of the cashier of the Mutual Credit were great. The + day that the Baron and the Baroness de Thaller had left, + </p> + <p> + “Pack up our trunks,” he ordered his wife. “The + bourse is going to close; and the Mutual Credit can very well get along + without me.” + </p> + <p> + But the next day he became undecided again. What Mlle. Gilberte + thought she could guess, was, that he was dying to start alone, and leave + his family, but dared not do it. He hesitated so long, that at last, + one evening, + </p> + <p> + “You may unpack the trunks,” he said to his wife. + “Paris is invested; and no one can now leave.” + </p> + <h2> + XVIII + </h2> + <p> + In fact, the news had just come, that the Western Railroad, the last one + that had remained open, was now cut off. + </p> + <p> + Paris was invested; and so rapid had been the investment, that it could + hardly be believed. + </p> + <p> + People went in crowds on all the culminating points, the hills of + Montmartre, and the heights of the Trocadero. Telescopes had been + erected there; and every one was anxious to scan the horizon, and look for + the Prussians. + </p> + <p> + But nothing could be discovered. The distant fields retained their + quiet and smiling aspect under the mild rays of the autumn sun. + </p> + <p> + So that it really required quite an effort of imagination to realize the + sinister fact, to understand that Paris, with its two millions of + inhabitants, was indeed cut off from the world and separated from the rest + of France, by an insurmountable circle of steel. + </p> + <p> + Doubt, and something like a vague hope, could be traced in the tone of the + people who met on the streets, saying, + </p> + <p> + “Well, it’s all over: we can’t leave any more. Letters, + even, cannot pass. No more news, eh?” + </p> + <p> + But the next day, which was the 19th of September, the most incredulous + were convinced. + </p> + <p> + For the first time Paris shuddered at the hoarse voice of the cannon, + thundering on the heights of Chatillon. The siege of Paris, that + siege without example in history, had commenced. + </p> + <p> + The life of the Favorals during these interminable days of anguish and + suffering, was that of a hundred thousand other families. + </p> + <p> + Incorporated in the battalion of his ward, the cashier of the Mutual + Credit went off two or three times a week, as well as all his neighbors, + to mount guard on the ramparts,—a useless service perhaps, but which + those that performed it did not look upon as such, —a very arduous + service, at any rate, for poor merchants, accustomed to the comforts of + their shops, or the quiet of their offices. + </p> + <p> + To be sure, there was nothing heroic in tramping through the mud, in + receiving the rain or the snow upon the back, in sleeping on the ground or + on dirty straw, in remaining on guard with the thermometer twenty degrees + below the freezing-point. But people die of pleurisy quite as + certainly as of a Prussian bullet; and many died of it. + </p> + <p> + Maxence showed himself but rarely at Rue St. Gilles: enlisted in a + battalion of sharpshooters, he did duty at the advanced posts. And, + as to Mme. Favoral and Mlle. Gilberte, they spent the day trying to get + something to live on. Rising before daylight, through rain or snow, + they took their stand before the butcher’s stall, and, after waiting for + hours, received a small slice of horse-meat. + </p> + <p> + Alone in the evening, by the side of the hearth where a few pieces of + green wood smoked without burning, they started at each of the distant + reports of the cannon. At each detonation that shook the + window-panes, Mme. Favoral thought that it was, perhaps, the one that had + killed her son. + </p> + <p> + And Mlle. Gilberte was thinking of Marius de Tregars. The accursed + days of November and December had come. There were constant rumors + of bloody battles around Orleans. She imagined Marius, mortally + wounded, expiring on the snow, alone, without help, and without a friend + to receive his supreme will and his last breath. + </p> + <p> + One evening the vision was so clear, and the impression so strong, that + she started up with a loud cry. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” asked Mme. Favoral, alarmed. “What + is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + With a little perspicacity, the worthy woman could easily have obtained + her daughter’s secret; for Mlle. Gilberte was not in condition to deny + anything. But she contented herself with an explanation which meant + nothing, and had not a suspicion, when the girl answered with a forced + smile, + </p> + <p> + “It’s nothing, dear mother, nothing but an absurd idea that crossed + my mind.” + </p> + <p> + Strange to say, never had the cashier of the Mutual Credit been for his + family what he was during these months of trials. + </p> + <p> + During the first weeks of the siege he had been anxious, agitated, + nervous; he wandered through the house like a soul in trouble; he had + moments of inconceivable prostration, during which tears could be seen + rolling down upon his cheeks, and then fits of anger without motive. + </p> + <p> + But each day that elapsed had seemed to bring calm to his soul. + Little by little, he had become to his wife so indulgent and so + affectionate, that the poor helot felt her heart touched. He had for + his daughter attentions which caused her to wonder. + </p> + <p> + Often, when the weather was fine, he took them out walking, leading them + along the quays towards a part of the walls occupied by the battalion of + their ward. Twice he took them to St. Onen, where the sharp-shooters + were encamped to which Maxence belonged. + </p> + <p> + Another day he wished to take them to visit M. de Thaller’s house, of + which he had charge. They refused, and instead of getting angry, as + he certainly would have done formerly, he commenced describing to them the + splendors of the apartments, the magnificent furniture, the carpets and + the hangings, the paintings by the great masters, the objects of arts, the + bronzes, in a word, all that dazzling luxury of which financiers make use, + somewhat as hunters do of the mirror with which larks are caught. + </p> + <p> + Of business, nothing was ever said. + </p> + <p> + He went every morning as far as the office of the Mutual Credit; but, as + he said, it was solely as a matter of form. Once in a long while, M. + Saint Pavin and the younger Jottras paid a visit to the Rue St. Gilles. + They had suspended,—the one the payments of his banking house; the + other, the publication of “The Financial Pilot.” + </p> + <p> + But they were not idle for all that; and, in the midst of the public + distress, they still managed to speculate upon something, no one knew + what, and to realize profits. + </p> + <p> + They rallied pleasantly the fools who had faith in the defence, and + imitated in the most laughable manner the appearance, under their + soldier’s coat, of three or four of their friends who had joined the + marching battalions. They boasted that they had no privations to + endure, and always knew where to find the fresh butter wherewith to dress + the large slices of beef which they possessed the art of finding. + Mme. Favoral heard them laugh; and M. Saint Pavin, the manager of “The + Financial Pilot,” exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + “Come, come! we would be fools to complain. It is a general + liquidation, without risks and without costs.” Their mirth had + something revolting in it; for it was now the last and most acute period + of the siege. + </p> + <p> + At the beginning, the greatest optimists hardly thought that Paris could + hold out longer than six weeks. And now the investment had lasted + over four months. The population was reduced to nameless articles of + food. The supply of bread had failed; the wounded, for lack of a + little soup, died in the ambulances; old people and children perished by + the hundred; on the left bank the shells came down thick and fast, the + weather was intensely cold, and there was no more fuel. + </p> + <p> + And yet no one complained. From the midst of that population of two + millions of inhabitants, not one voice rose to beg for their comfort, + their health, their life even, at the cost of a capitulation. + </p> + <p> + Clear-sighted men had never hoped that Paris alone could compel the + raising of the siege; but they thought, that by holding out, and keeping + the Prussians under its walls, Paris would give to France time to rise, to + organize armies, and to rush upon the enemy. There was the duty of + Paris; and Paris was toiling to fulfil it to the utmost limits of + possibility, reckoning as a victory each day that it gained. + </p> + <p> + Unfortunately, all this suffering was to be in vain. The fatal hour + struck, when, supplies being exhausted, it became necessary to surrender. + During three days the Prussians camped in the Champs Elysees, gazing with + longing eyes upon that city, object of their most eager desires,—that + Paris within which, victorious though they were, they had not dared to + venture. Then, soon after, communications were reopened; and one + morning, as he received a letter from Switzerland, + </p> + <p> + “It is from the Baron de Thaller!” exclaimed M. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Exactly so. The manager of the Mutual Credit was a prudent man. + Pleasantly situated in Switzerland, he was in nowise anxious to return to + Paris before being quite certain that he had no risks to run. + </p> + <p> + Upon receiving M. Favoral’s assurances to that effect, he started; and, + almost at the same time the elder Jottras and M. Costeclar made their + appearance. + </p> + <h2> + XIX + </h2> + <p> + It was a curious spectacle, the return of those braves for whom Parisian + slang had invented the new and significant expression of <i>franc-fileur</i>. + </p> + <p> + They were not so proud then as they have been since. Feeling rather + embarrassed in the midst of a population still quivering with the emotions + of the siege, they had at least the good taste to try and find pretexts + for their absence. + </p> + <p> + “I was cut off,” affirmed the Baron de Thaller. “I + had gone to Switzerland to place my wife and daughter in safety. + When I came back, good-by! the Prussians had closed the doors. For + more than a week, I wandered around Paris, trying to find an opening. + I became suspected of being a spy. I was arrested. A little + more, and I was shot dead!” + </p> + <p> + “As to myself,” declared M. Costeclar, “I foresaw + exactly what has happened. I knew that it was outside, to organize + armies of relief, that men would be wanted. I went to offer my + services to the government of defence; and everybody in Bordeaux saw me + booted and spurred, and ready to leave.” + </p> + <p> + He was consequently soliciting the Cross of the Legion of Honor, and was + not without hopes of obtaining it through the all-powerful influence of + his financial connections. + </p> + <p> + “Didn’t So-and-so get it?” he replied to objections. And + he named this or that individual whose feats of arms consisted principally + in having exhibited themselves in uniforms covered with gold lace to the + very shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “But I am the man who deserves it most, that cross,” insisted + the younger M. Jottras; “for I, at least, have rendered valuable + services.” + </p> + <p> + And he went on telling how, after searching for arms all over England, he + had sailed for New York, where he had purchased any number of guns and + cartridges, and even some batteries of artillery. + </p> + <p> + This last journey had been very wearisome to him, he added and yet he did + not regret it; for it had furnished him an opportunity to study on the + spot the financial morals of America; and he had returned with ideas + enough to make the fortune of three or four stock companies with twenty + millions of capital. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, those Americans!” he exclaimed. “They are the + men who understand business! We are but children by the side of + them.” + </p> + <p> + It was through M. Chapelain, the Desclavettes, and old Desormeaux, that + these news reached the Rue St. Gilles. + </p> + <p> + It was also through Maxence, whose battalion had been dissolved, and who, + whilst waiting for something better, had accepted a clerkship in the + office of the Orleans Railway, where he earned two hundred francs a month. + For M. Favoral saw and heard nothing that was going on around him. + He was wholly absorbed in his business: he left earlier, came home + later, and hardly allowed himself time to eat and drink. + </p> + <p> + He told all his friends that business was looking up again in the most + unexpected manner; that there were fortunes to be made by those who could + command ready cash; and that it was necessary to make up for lost time. + </p> + <p> + He pretended that the enormous indemnity to be paid to the Prussians would + necessitate an enormous movement of capital, financial combinations, a + loan, and that so many millions could not be handled without allowing a + few little millions to fall into intelligent pockets. + </p> + <p> + Dazzled by the mere enumeration of those fabulous sums, “I should + not be a bit surprised,” said the others, “to see Favoral + double and treble his fortune. What a famous match his daughter will + be!” + </p> + <p> + Alas! never had Mlle. Gilberte felt in her heart so much hatred and + disgust for that money, the only thought, the sole subject of + conversation, of those around her,—for that cursed money which had + risen like an insurmountable obstacle between Marius and herself. + </p> + <p> + For two weeks past, the communications had been completely restored; and + there was as yet no sign of M. de Tregars. It was with the most + violent palpitations of her heart that she awaited each day the hour of + the Signor Gismondo Pulei’s lesson: and more painful each time + became her anguish when she heard him exclaim, + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, not a line, not a word. The pupil has forgotten his + old master!” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Gilberte knew well that Marius did not forget. Her blood + froze in her veins when she read in the papers the interminable list of + those poor soldiers who had succumbed during the invasion, —the more + fortunate ones under Prussian bullets; the others along the roads, in the + mud or in the snow, of cold, of fatigue, of suffering and of want. + </p> + <p> + She could not drive from her mind the memory of that lugubrious vision + which had so much frightened her; and she was asking herself whether it + was not one of those inexplicable presentiments, of which there are + examples, which announce the death of a beloved person. + </p> + <p> + Alone at night in her little room, Mlle. Gilberte withdrew from the + hiding-place, where she kept it preciously, that package which Marius had + confided to her, recommending her not to open it until she was sure that + he would not return. It was very voluminous, enclosed in an envelope + of thick paper, sealed with red wax, bearing the arms of Tregars; and she + had often wondered what it could possibly contain. And now she + shuddered at the thought that she had perhaps the right to open it. + </p> + <p> + And she had no one of whom she could ask for a word of hope. She was + compelled to hide her tears, and to put on a smile. She was + compelled to invent pretexts for those who expressed their wonder at + seeing her exquisite beauty withering in the bud,—for her mother, + whose anxiety was without limit, when she saw her thus pale, her eyes + inflamed, and undermined by a continuous fever. + </p> + <p> + True, Marius, on leaving, had left her a friend, the Count de Villegre; + and, if any one knew any thing, he certainly did. But she could see + no way of hearing from him without risking her secret. Write to him? + Nothing was easier, since she had his address,—Rue Turenne. + But where could she ask him to direct his answer? Rue St. Gilles? + Impossible! True, she might go to him, or make an appointment in the + neighborhood. But how could she escape, even for an hour, without + exciting Mme. Favoral’s suspicions? + </p> + <p> + Sometimes it occurred to her to confide in Maxence, who was laboring with + admirable constancy to redeem his past. + </p> + <p> + But what! must she, then, confess the truth,—confess that she, + Gilberte, had lent her ears to the words of a stranger, met by chance in + the street, and that she looked forward to no happiness in life save + through him? She dared not. She could not take upon herself to + overcome the shame of such a situation. + </p> + <p> + She was on the verge of despair, the day when the Signor Pulei arrived + radiant, exclaiming from the very threshold, “I have news!” + </p> + <p> + And at once, without surprise at the awful emotion of the girl, which he + attributed solely to the interest she felt for him,—him Gismondo + Pulei, he went on,—“I did not get them direct, but through a + respectable signor with long mustaches, and a red ribbon at his + buttonhole, who, having received a letter from my dear pupil, has deigned + to come to my room, and read it to me.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy maestro had not forgotten a single word of that letter; and it + was almost literally that he repeated it. + </p> + <p> + Six weeks after having enlisted, his pupil had been promoted corporal, + then sergeant, then lieutenant. He had fought in all the battles of + the army of the Loire without receiving a scratch. But at the battle + of the Maus, whilst leading back his men, who were giving way, he had been + shot twice, full in the breast. Carried dying into an ambulance, he + had lingered three weeks between life and death, having lost all + consciousness of self. Twenty-four hours after, he had recovered his + senses; and he took the first opportunity to recall himself to the + affection of his friends. All danger was over, he suffered scarcely + any more; and they promised him, that, within a month, he would be up, and + able to return to Paris. + </p> + <p> + For the first time in many weeks Mlle. Gilberte breathed freely. But + she would have been greatly surprised, had she been told that a day was + drawing near when she would bless those wounds which detained Marius upon + a hospital cot. And yet it was so. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral and her daughter were alone, one evening, at the house, when + loud clamors arose from the street, in the midst of which could be heard + drunken voices yelling the refrains of revolutionary songs, accompanied by + continuous rumbling sounds. They ran to the window. The + National Guards had just taken possession of the cannon deposited in the + Place Royale. The reign of the Commune was commencing. + </p> + <p> + In less than forty-eight hours, people came to regret the worst days of + the siege. Without leaders, without direction, the honest men had + lost their heads. All the braves who had returned at the time of the + armistice had again taken flight. Soon people had to hide or to fly + to avoid being incorporated in the battalions of the Commune. Night + and day, around the walls, the fusillade rattled, and the artillery + thundered. + </p> + <p> + Again M. Favoral had given up going to his office. What’s the use? + Sometimes, with a singular look, he would say to his wife and children, + </p> + <p> + “This time it is indeed a liquidation. Paris is lost!” + </p> + <p> + And indeed they thought so, when at the hour of the supreme struggle, + among the detonations of the cannon and the explosion of the shells; they + felt their house shaking to its very foundations; when in the midst of the + night they saw their apartment as brilliantly lighted as at mid-day by the + flames which were consuming the Hotel de Ville and the houses around the + Place de la Bastille. And, in fact, the rapid action of the troops + alone saved Paris from destruction. + </p> + <p> + But towards the end of the following week, matters had commenced to quiet + down; and Gilberte learned the return of Marius. + </p> + <h2> + XX + </h2> + <p> + “At last it has been given to my eyes to contemplate him, and to my + arms to press him against my heart!” + </p> + <p> + It was in these terms that the old Italian master, all vibrating with + enthusiasm, and with his most terrible accent, announced to Mlle. Gilberte + that he had just seen that famous pupil from whom he expected both glory + and fortune. + </p> + <p> + “But how weak he is still!” he added, “and suffering + from his wounds. I hardly recognized him, he has grown so pale and + so thin.” + </p> + <p> + But the girl was listening to him no more. A flood of life filled + her heart. This moment made her forget all her troubles and all her + anguish. + </p> + <p> + “And I too,” thought she, “shall see him again to-day.” + </p> + <p> + And, with the unerring instinct of the woman who loves, she calculated the + moment when Marius would appear in Rue St. Gilles. It would probably + be about nightfall, like the first time, before leaving; that is, about + eight o’clock, for the days just then were about the longest in the year. + Now it so happened, that, on that very day and hour, Mlle. Gilberte + expected to be alone at home. It was understood that her mother + would, after dinner, call on Mme. Desclavettes, who was in bed, half dead + of the fright she had had during the last convulsions of the Commune. + She would therefore be free and would not need to invent a pretext to go + out for a few moments. She could not help, however, but feel that + this was a bold and most venturesome step for her to take; and, when her + mother went out, she had not yet fully decided what to do. But her + bonnet was within reach, and Marius’ letter was in her pocket. She + went to sit at the window. The street was solitary and silent as of + old. Night was coming; and heavy black clouds floated over Paris. + The heat was overpowering: there was not a breath of air. + </p> + <p> + One by one, as the hour was approaching when she expected to see Marius, + the hesitations of the young girl vanished like smoke. She feared + but one thing,—that he would not come, or that he may already have + come and left, without succeeding in seeing her. + </p> + <p> + Already did the objects become less distinct; and the gas was being lit in + the back-shops, when she recognized him on the other side of the street. + He looked up as he went by; and, without stopping, he addressed her a + rapid gesture, which she alone could understand, and which meant, “Come, + I beseech you!” + </p> + <p> + Her heart beating loud enough to be heard, Mlle. Gilberte ran down the + stairs. But it was only when she found herself in the street that + she could appreciate the magnitude of the risk she was running. + Concierges and shopkeepers were all sitting in front of their doors, + taking the fresh air. All knew her. Would they not be + surprised to see her out alone at such an hour? Twenty steps in + front of her she could see Marius. But he had understood the danger; + for, instead of turning the corner of the Rue des Minimes, he followed the + Rue St. Gilles straight, and only stopped on the other side of the + Boulevard. + </p> + <p> + Then only did Mlle. Gilberte join him; and she could not withhold an + exclamation, when she saw that he was as pale as death, and scarcely able + to stand and to walk. + </p> + <p> + “How imprudent of you to have returned so soon!” she said. + </p> + <p> + A little blood came to M. de Tregars’ cheeks. His face brightened + up, and, in a voice quivering with suppressed passion, + </p> + <p> + “It would have been more imprudent still to stay away,” he + uttered. “Far from you, I felt myself dying.” + </p> + <p> + They were both leaning against the door of a closed shop; and they were as + alone in the midst of the throng that circulated on the Boulevards, busy + looking at the fearful wrecks of the Commune. + </p> + <p> + “And besides,” added Marius, “have I, then, a minute to + lose? I asked you for three years. Fifteen months have gone, + and I am no better off than on the first day. When this accursed war + broke out, all my arrangements were made. I was certain to rapidly + accumulate a sufficient fortune to enable me to ask for your hand without + being refused. Whereas now—” + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Now every thing is changed. The future is so uncertain, that + no one wishes to venture their capital. Marcolet himself, who + certainly does not lack boldness, and who believes firmly in the success + of our enterprise, was telling me yesterday, ‘There is nothing to be + done just now: we must wait.’” + </p> + <p> + There was in his voice such an intensity of grief, that the girl felt the + tears coming to her eyes. + </p> + <p> + “We will wait then,” she said, attempting to smile. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” he said. “Do you, then, think + that I do not know what a life you lead?” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte looked up. + </p> + <p> + “Have I ever complained?” she asked proudly. + </p> + <p> + “No. Your mother and yourself, you have always religiously + kept the secret of your tortures; and it was only a providential accident + that revealed them to me. But I learned every thing at last. I + know that she whom I love exclusively and with all the power of my soul is + subjected to the most odious despotism, insulted, and condemned to the + most humiliating privations. And I, who would give my life for her a + thousand times over,—I can do nothing for her. Money raises + between us such an insuperable obstacle, that my love is actually an + offence. To hear from her, I am driven to accept accomplices. + If I obtain from her a few moments of conversation, I run the risk of + compromising her maidenly reputation.” + </p> + <p> + Deeply affected by his emotion: + </p> + <p> + “At least,” said Mlle. Gilberte, “you succeeded in + delivering me from M. Costeclar.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I was fortunately able to find weapons against that scoundrel. + But can I find some against all others that may offer? Your father + is very rich; and the men are numerous for whom marriage is but a + speculation like any other.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you doubt me?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, rather would I doubt myself! But I know what cruel trials + your refusal to marry M. Costeclar imposed upon you: I know what a + merciless struggle you had to sustain. Another pretender may come, + and then—No, no, you see that we cannot wait.” + </p> + <p> + “What would you do?” + </p> + <p> + “I know not. I have not yet decided upon my future course. + And yet Heaven knows what have been the labors of my mind during that long + month I have just spent upon an ambulance-bed, that month during which you + were my only thought. Ah! when I think of it, I cannot find words to + curse the recklessness with which I disposed of my fortune.” + </p> + <p> + As if she had heard a blasphemy, the young girl drew back a step. + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible,” she exclaimed, “that you should + regret having paid what your father owed.” + </p> + <p> + A bitter smile contracted M. de Tregars’ lips. + </p> + <p> + “And suppose I were to tell you,” he replied, “that my + father in reality owed nothing?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Suppose I told you they took from him his entire fortune, over two + millions, as audaciously as a pick-pocket robs a man of his handkerchief? + Suppose I told you, that, in his loyal simplicity, he was but a man of + straw in the hands of skillful knaves? Have you forgotten what you + once heard the Count de Villegre say?” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte had forgotten nothing. + </p> + <p> + “The Count de Villegre,” she replied, “pretended that it + was time enough still to compel the men who had robbed your father to + disgorge.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly!” exclaimed Marius. “And now I am + determined to make them disgorge.” + </p> + <p> + In the mean time night had quite come. Lights appeared in the + shop-windows; and along the line of the Boulevard the gas-lamps were being + lit. Alarmed by this sudden illumination, M. de Tregars drew off + Mlle. Gilberte to a more obscure spot, by the stairs that lead to the Rue + Amelot; and there, leaning against the iron railing, he went on, + </p> + <p> + “Already, at the time of my father’s death, I suspected the + abominable tricks of which he was the victim. I thought it unworthy + of me to verify my suspicions. I was alone in the world: my + wants were few. I was fully convinced that my researches would give + me, within a brief time, a much larger fortune than the one I gave up. + I found something noble and grand, and which flattered my vanity, in thus + abandoning every thing, without discussion, without litigation, and + consummating my ruin with a single dash of my pen. Among my friends + the Count de Villegre alone had the courage to tell me that this was a + guilty piece of folly; that the silence of the dupes is the strength of + the knaves; that my indifference, which made the rascals rich, would make + them laugh too. I replied that I did not wish to see the name of + Tregars dragged into court in a scandalous law-suit, and that to preserve + a dignified silence was to honor my father’s memory. Treble fool + that I was! The only way to honor my father’s memory was to avenge + him, to wrest his spoils from the scoundrels who had caused his death. + I see it clearly to-day. But, before undertaking any thing, I wished + to consult you.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte was listening with the most intense attention. She + had come to mingle so completely in her thoughts her future life and that + of M. de Tregars, that she saw nothing unusual in the fact of his + consulting her upon matters affecting their prospects, and of seeing + herself standing there deliberating with him. + </p> + <p> + “You will require proofs,” she suggested. + </p> + <p> + “I have none, unfortunately,” replied M. de Tregars; “at + least, none sufficiently positive, and such as are required by courts of + justice. But I think I may find them. My former suspicions + have become a certainty. The same good luck that enabled me to + deliver you of M. Costeclar’s persecutions, also placed in my hands the + most valuable information.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must act,” uttered Mlle. Gilberte resolutely. + </p> + <p> + Marius hesitated for a moment, as if seeking expression to convey what he + had still to say. Then, + </p> + <p> + “It is my duty,” he proceeded, “to conceal nothing from + you. The task is a heavy one. The obscure schemers of ten + years ago have become big financiers, intrenched behind their money-bags + as behind an impregnable fort. Formerly isolated, they have managed + to gather around them powerful interests, accomplices high in office, and + friends whose commanding situation protects them. Having succeeded, + they are absolved. They have in their favor what is called public + consideration,—that idiotic thing which is made up of the admiration + of the fools, the approbation of the knaves, and the concert of all + interested vanities. When they pass, their horses at full trot, + their carriage raising a cloud of dust, insolent, impudent, swelled with + the vulgar fatuity of wealth, people bow to the ground, and say, ‘Those + are smart fellows!’ And in fact, yes, by skill or luck, they + have hitherto avoided the police-courts where so many others have come to + grief. Those who despise them fear them, and shake hands with them. + Moreover, they are rich enough not to steal any more themselves. + They have employes to do that. I take Heaven to witness that never + until lately had the idea come to me to disturb in their possession the + men who robbed my father. Alone, what need had I of money? + Later, O my friend! I thought I could succeed in conquering the + fortune I needed to obtain your hand. You had promised to wait; and + I was happy to think that I should owe you to my sole exertions. + Events have crushed my hopes. I am to-day compelled to acknowledge + that all my efforts would be in vain. To wait would be to run the + risk of losing you. Therefore I hesitate no longer. I want + what’s mine: I wish to recover that of which I have been robbed. + Whatever I may do,—for, alas! I know not to what I may be + driven, what role I may have to play,—remember that of all my acts, + of all my thoughts, there will not be a single one that does not aim to + bring nearer the blessed day when you shall become my wife.” + </p> + <p> + There was in his voice so much unspeakable affection, that the young girl + could hardly restrain her tears. + </p> + <p> + “Never, whatever may happen, shall I doubt you, Marius,” she + uttered. + </p> + <p> + He took her hands, and, pressing them passionately within his, + </p> + <p> + “And I,” he exclaimed, “I swear, that, sustained by the + thought of you, there is no disgust that I will not overcome, no obstacle + that I will not overthrow.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke so loud, that two or three persons stopped. He noticed it, + and was brought suddenly from sentiment to the reality, + </p> + <p> + “Wretches that we are,” he said in a low voice, and very fast, + “we forget what this interview may cost us!” + </p> + <p> + And he led Mlle. Gilberte across the Boulevard; and, whilst making their + way to the Rue St. Gilles, through the deserted streets, + </p> + <p> + “It is a dreadful imprudence we have just committed,” resumed + M. de Tregars. “But it was indispensable that we should see + each other; and we had not the choice of means. Now, and for a long + time, we shall be separated. Every thing you wish me to know,—say + it to that worthy Gismondo, who repeats faithfully to me every word you + utter. Through him, also, you shall hear from me. Twice a + week, on Tuesdays and Fridays, about nightfall, I shall pass by your + house; and, if I am lucky enough to have a glimpse of you, I shall return + home fired with fresh energy. Should any thing extraordinary happen, + beckon to me, and I’ll wait for you in the Rue des Minimes. But this + is an expedient to which we must only resort in the last extremity. + I should never forgive myself, were I to compromise your fair name.” + </p> + <p> + They had reached the Rue St. Gilles. Marius stopped. + </p> + <p> + “We must part,” he began. + </p> + <p> + But then only Mlle. Gilberte remembered M. de Tregars’ letter, which she + had in her pocket. Taking it out, and handing it to him, + </p> + <p> + “Here,” she said, “is the package you deposited with me.” + </p> + <p> + “No,” he answered, repelling her gently, “keep that + letter: it must never be opened now, except by the Marquise de + Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + And raising her hand to his lips, and in a deeply agitated voice, + </p> + <p> + “Farewell!” he murmured. “Have courage, and have + hope.” + </p> + <h2> + XXI + </h2> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte was soon far away; and Marius de Tregars remained + motionless at the corner of the street, following her with his eyes + through the darkness. + </p> + <p> + She was walking fast, staggering over the rough pavement. Leaving + Marius, she fell back upon the earth from the height of her dreams. + The deceiving illusion had vanished, and, returned to the world of sad + reality, she was seized with anxiety. + </p> + <p> + How long had she been out? She knew not, and found it impossible to + reckon. But it was evidently getting late; for some of the shops + were already closing. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, she had reached the house. Stepping back, and looking up, + she saw that there was light in the parlor. + </p> + <p> + “Mother has returned,” she thought, trembling with + apprehension. + </p> + <p> + She hurried up, nevertheless; and, just as she reached the landing, Mme. + Favoral opened the door, preparing to go down. + </p> + <p> + “At last you are restored to me!” exclaimed the poor mother, + whose sinister apprehensions were revealed by that single exclamation. + “I was going out to look for you at random,—in the streets, + anywhere.” + </p> + <p> + And, drawing her daughter within the parlor, she clasped her in her arms + with convulsive tenderness, exclaiming, + </p> + <p> + “Where were you? Where do you come from? Do you know + that it is after nine o’clock?” + </p> + <p> + Such had been Mlle. Gilberte’s state of mind during the whole of that + evening, that she had not even thought of finding a pretext to justify her + absence. Now it was too late. Besides, what explanation would + have been plausible? Instead, therefore, of answering, + </p> + <p> + “Why, dear mother,” she said with a forced smile, “has + it not happened to me twenty times to go out in the neighborhood?” + </p> + <p> + But Mme. Favoral’s confiding credulity existed no longer. + </p> + <p> + “I have been blind, Gilberte,” she interrupted; “but + this time my eyes must open to evidence. There is in your life a + mystery, something extraordinary, which I dare not try to guess.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte drew herself up, and, looking her mother straight in the + eyes, with her beautiful, clear glance, + </p> + <p> + “Would you suspect me of something wrong, then?” she + exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral stopped her with a gesture. + </p> + <p> + “A young girl who conceals something from her mother always does + wrong,” she uttered. “It is a long while since I have + had for the first time the presentiment that you were hiding something + from me. But, when I questioned you, you succeeded in quieting my + suspicions. You have abused my confidence and my weakness.” + </p> + <p> + This reproach was the most cruel that could be addressed to Mlle. + Gilberte. The blood rushed to her face, and, in a firm voice, + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes,” said she: “I have a secret.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” + </p> + <p> + “And, if I did not confide it to you, it is because it is also the + secret of another. Yes, I confess it, I have been imprudent in the + extreme; I have stepped beyond all the limits of propriety and social + custom; I have exposed myself to the worst calumnies. But never,—I + swear it,—never have I done any thing of which my conscience can + reproach me, nothing that I have to blush for, nothing that I regret, + nothing that I am not ready to do again to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I said nothing, ‘tis true; but it was my duty. Alone I had to + suffer the responsibility of my acts. Having alone freely engaged my + future, I wished to bear alone the weight of my anxiety. I should + never have forgiven myself for having added this new care to all your + other sorrows.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral stood dismayed. Big tears rolled down her withered + cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you see, then,” she stammered, “that all my past + suffering is as nothing compared to what I endure to-day? Good + heavens! what have I ever done to deserve so many trials? Am I to be + spared none of the troubles of this world? And it is through my own + daughter that I am the most cruelly stricken!” + </p> + <p> + This was more than Mlle. Gilberte could bear. Her heart was breaking + at the sight of her mother’s tears, that angel of meekness and + resignation. Throwing her arms around her neck, and kissing her on + the eyes, + </p> + <p> + “Mother,” she murmured, “adored mother, I beg of you do + not weep thus! Speak to me! What do you wish me to do?” + </p> + <p> + Gently the poor woman drew back. + </p> + <p> + “Tell me the truth,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + Was it not certain that this was the very thing she would ask; in fact, + the only thing she could ask? Ah! how much would the young girl have + preferred one of her father’s violent scenes, and brutalities which would + have exalted her energy, instead of crushing it! + </p> + <p> + Attempting to gain time, + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes,” she answered, “I’ll tell you every thing, + mother, but not now, to-morrow, later.” + </p> + <p> + She was about to yield, however, when her father’s arrival cut short their + conversation. + </p> + <p> + The cashier of the Mutual Credit was quite lively that night. He was + humming a tune, a thing which did not happen to him four times a year, and + which was indicative of the most extreme satisfaction. But he + stopped short at the sight of the disturbed countenance of his wife and + daughter. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” hastily answered Mlle. Gilberte,—“nothing + at all, father.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are crying for your amusement,” he said. + “Come, be candid for once, and confess that Maxence has been at his + tricks again!” + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken, father: I swear it!” + </p> + <p> + He asked no further questions, being in his nature not very curious, + whether because family matters were of so little consequence to him, or + because he had a vague idea that his general behavior deprived him of all + right to their confidence. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then,” he said in a gruff tone, “let us all + go to bed. I have worked so hard to-day, that I am quite exhausted. + People who pretend that business is dull make me laugh. Never has M. + de Thaller been in the way of making so much money as now.” + </p> + <p> + When he spoke, they obeyed. So that Mlle. Gilberte was thus going to + have the whole night before her to resume possession of herself, to pass + over in her mind the events of the evening, and deliberate coolly upon the + decision she must come to; for, she could not doubt it, Mme. Favoral + would, the very next day, renew her questions. + </p> + <p> + What should she say? All? Mlle. Gilberte felt disposed to do + so by all the aspirations of her heart, by the certainty of indulgent + complicity, by the thought of finding in a sympathetic soul the echo of + her joys, of her troubles, and of her hopes. + </p> + <p> + Yes. But Mme. Favoral was still the same woman, whose firmest + resolutions vanished under the gaze of her husband. Let a pretender + come; let a struggle begin, as in the case of M. Costeclar,—would + she have strength enough to remain silent? No! + </p> + <p> + Then it would be a fearful scene with M. Favoral. He might, perhaps, + even go to M. de Tregars. What scandal! For he was a man who + spared no one; and then a new obstacle would rise between them, more + insurmountable still than the others. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte was thinking, too, of Marius’s projects; of that terrible + game he was about to play, the issue of which was to decide their fate. + He had said enough to make her understand all its perils, and that a + single indiscretion might suffice to set at nought the result of many + months’ labor and patience. Besides, to speak, was it not to abuse + Marius’s confidence. How could she expect another to keep a secret + she had been unable to keep herself? + </p> + <p> + At last, after protracted and painful hesitation, she decided that she was + bound to silence, and that she would only vouchsafe the vaguest + explanations. + </p> + <p> + It was in vain, then, that, on the next and the following days, Mme. + Favoral tried to obtain that confession which she had seen, as it were, + rise to her daughter’s lips. To her passionate adjurations, to her + tears, to her ruses even, Mlle. Gilberte invariably opposed equivocal + answers, a story through which nothing could be guessed, save one of those + childish romances which stop at the preface,—a schoolgirl love for a + chimerical hero. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing in this very reassuring to a mother; but Mme. Favoral + knew her daughter too well to hope to conquer her invincible obstinacy. + She insisted no more, appeared convinced, but resolved to exercise the + utmost vigilance. In vain, however, did she display all the + penetration of which she was capable. The severest attention did not + reveal to her a single suspicious fact, not a circumstance from which she + could draw an induction, until, at last, she thought that she must have + been mistaken. + </p> + <p> + The fact is, that Mlle. Gilberte had not been long in feeling herself + watched; and she observed herself with a tenacious circumspection that + could hardly have been expected of her resolute and impatient nature. + She had trained herself to a sort of cheerful carelessness, to which she + strictly adhered, watching every expression of her countenance, and + avoiding carefully those hours of vague revery in which she formerly + indulged. + </p> + <p> + For two successive weeks, fearing to be betrayed by her looks, she had the + courage not to show herself at the window at the hour when she knew Marius + would pass. Moreover, she was very minutely informed of the + alternatives of the campaign undertaken by M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + More enthusiastic than ever about his pupil, the Signor Gismondo Pulei + never tired of singing his praise, and with such pomp of expression, and + so curious an exuberance of gesticulation, that Mme. Favoral was much + amused; and, on the days when she was present at her daughter’s lesson, + she was the first to inquire, + </p> + <p> + “Well, how is that famous pupil?” + </p> + <p> + And, according to what Marius had told him, + </p> + <p> + “He is swimming in the purest satisfaction,” answered the + candid maestro. “Every thing succeeds miraculously well, and + much beyond his hopes.” + </p> + <p> + Or else, knitting his brows— + </p> + <p> + “He was sad yesterday,” he said, “owing to an unexpected + disappointment; but he does not lose courage. We shall succeed.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl could not help smiling to see her mother assisting thus the + unconscious complicity of the Signor Gismondo. Then she reproached + herself for having smiled, and for having thus come, through a gradual and + fatal descent, to laugh at a duplicity at which she would have blushed in + former times. In spite of herself, however, she took a passionate + interest in the game that was being played between her mother and herself, + and of which her secret was the stake. It was an ever-palpitating + interest in her hitherto monotonous life, and a source of + constantly-renewed emotions. + </p> + <p> + The days became weeks, and the weeks months; and Mme. Favoral relaxed her + useless surveillance, and, little by little, gave it up almost entirely. + She still thought, that, at a certain moment, something unusual had + occurred to her daughter; but she felt persuaded, that, whatever that was, + it had been forgotten. + </p> + <p> + So that, on the stated days, Mlle. Gilberte could go and lean upon the + window, without fear of being called to account for the emotion which she + felt when M. de Tregars appeared. At the expected hour, invariably, + and with a punctuality to shame M. Favoral himself, he turned the corner + of the Rue Turenne, exchanged a rapid glance with the young girl, and + passed on. + </p> + <p> + His health was completely restored; and with it he had recovered that + graceful virility which results from the perfect blending of suppleness + and strength. But he no longer wore the plain garments of former + days. He was dressed now with that elegant simplicity which reveals + at first sight that rarest of objects,—a “perfect gentleman.” + And, whilst she accompanied him with her eyes as he walked towards the + Boulevard, she felt thoughts of joy and pride rising from the bottom of + her soul. + </p> + <p> + “Who would ever imagine,” thought she, “that this young + gentleman walking away yonder is my affianced husband, and that the day is + perhaps not far, when, having become his wife, I shall lean upon his arm? + Who would think that all my thoughts belong to him, that it is for my sake + that he has given up the ambition of his life, and is now prosecuting + another object? Who would suspect that it is for Gilberte Favoral’s + sake that the Marquis de Tregars is walking in the Rue St. Gilles?” + </p> + <p> + And, indeed, Marius did deserve some credit for these walks; for winter + had come, spreading a thick coat of mud over the pavement of all those + little streets which are always forgotten by the street-cleaners. + </p> + <p> + The cashier’s home had resumed its habits of before the war, its drowsy + monotony scarcely disturbed by the Saturday dinner, by M. Desclavettes’ + naivetes or old Desormeaux’s puns. + </p> + <p> + Maxence, in the mean time, had ceased to live with his parents. He + had returned to Paris immediately after the Commune; and, feeling no + longer in the humor to submit to the paternal despotism, he had taken a + small apartment on the Boulevard du Temple; but, at the pressing instance + of his mother, he had consented to come every night to dine at the Rue St. + Gilles. + </p> + <p> + Faithful to his oath, he was working hard, though without getting on very + fast. The moment was far from propitious; and the occasion, which he + had so often allowed to escape, did not offer itself again. For lack + of any thing better, he had kept his clerkship at the railway; and, as two + hundred francs a month were not quite sufficient for his wants, he spent a + portion of his nights copying documents for M. Chapelain’s successor. + </p> + <p> + “What do you need so much money for?” his mother said to him + when she noticed his eyes a little red. + </p> + <p> + “Every thing is so dear!” he answered with a smile, which was + equivalent to a confidence, and yet which Mme. Favoral did not understand. + </p> + <p> + He had, nevertheless, managed to pay all his debts, little by little. + The day when, at last, he held in his hand the last receipted bill, he + showed it proudly to his father, begging him to find him a place at the + Mutual Credit, where, with infinitely less trouble, he could earn so much + more. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral commenced to giggle. + </p> + <p> + “Do you take me for a fool, like your mother?” he exclaimed. + “And do you think I don’t know what life you lead?” + </p> + <p> + “My life is that of a poor devil who works as hard as he can.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed! How is it, then, that women are constantly seen at + your house, whose dresses and manners are a scandal in the neighborhood?” + </p> + <p> + “You have been deceived, father.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen.” + </p> + <p> + “It is impossible. Let me explain.” + </p> + <p> + “No, you would have your trouble for nothing. You are, and you + will ever remain, the same; and it would be folly on my part to introduce + into an office where I enjoy the esteem of all, a fellow, who, some day or + other, will be fatally dragged into the mud by some lost creature.” + </p> + <p> + Such discussions were not calculated to make the relations between father + and son more cordial. Several times M. Favoral had insinuated, that, + since Maxence lodged away from home, he might as well dine away too. + And he would evidently have notified him to do so, had he not been + prevented by a remnant of human respect, and the fear of gossip. + </p> + <p> + On the other hand, the bitter regret of having, perhaps, spoiled his life, + the uncertainty of the future, the penury of the moment, all the + unsatisfied desires of youth, kept Maxence in a state of perpetual + irritation. + </p> + <p> + The excellent Mme. Favoral exhausted all her arguments to quiet him. + </p> + <p> + “Your father is harsh for us,” she said; “but is he less + harsh for himself? He forgives nothing; but he has never needed to + be forgiven himself. He does not understand youth, but he has never + been young himself; and at twenty he was as grave and as cold as you see + him now. How could he know what pleasure is?—he to whom the + idea has never come to take an hour’s enjoyment.” + </p> + <p> + “Have I, then, been guilty of any crimes, to be thus treated by my + father?” exclaimed Maxence, flushed with anger. “Our + existence here is an unheard-of thing. You, poor, dear mother!—you + have never had the free disposition of a five-franc-piece. Gilberte + spends her days turning her dresses, after having had them dyed. I + am driven to a petty clerkship. And my father has fifty thousand + francs a year!” + </p> + <p> + Such, indeed, was the figure at which the most moderate estimated M. + Favoral’s fortune. M. Chapelain, who was supposed to be well + informed, insinuated freely that his friend Vincent, besides being the + cashier of the Mutual Credit, must also be one of its principal + stock-holders. Now, judging from the dividend which had just been + paid, the Mutual Credit must, since the war, have realized enormous + profits. All its enterprises were successful; and it was on the + point of negotiating a foreign loan which would infallibly fill its + exchequer to overflowing. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral, moreover, defended himself feebly from these accusations of + concealed opulence. When M. Desormeaux told him, “Come, now, + between us, candidly, how many millions have you?” he had such a + strange way of affirming that people were very much mistaken, that his + friends’ convictions became only the more settled. And, as soon as + they had a few thousand francs of savings, they promptly brought them to + him, imitated in this by a goodly number of the small capitalists of the + neighborhood, who were wont to remark among themselves, + </p> + <p> + “That man is safer than the bank!” + </p> + <p> + Millionaire or otherwise, the cashier of the Mutual Credit became daily + more difficult to live with. If strangers, those who had with him + but a superficial intercourse, if the Saturday guests themselves, + discovered in him no appreciable change, his wife and his children + followed with anxious surprise the modifications of his humor. + </p> + <p> + If outwardly he still appeared the same impassible, precise, and grave + man, he showed himself at home more fretful than an old maid, —nervous, + agitated, and subject to the oddest whims. After remaining three or + four days without opening his lips, he would begin to speak upon all sorts + of subjects with amazing volubility. Instead of watering his wine + freely, as formerly, he had begun to drink it pure; and he often took two + bottles at his meal, excusing himself upon the necessity that he felt the + need of stimulating himself a little after his excessive labors. + </p> + <p> + Then he would be taken with fits of coarse gayety; and he related singular + anecdotes, intermingled with slang expressions, which Maxence alone could + understand. + </p> + <p> + On the morning of the first day of January, 1872, as he sat down to + breakfast, he threw upon the table a roll of fifty napoleons, saying to + his children, + </p> + <p> + “Here is your New Year’s gift! Divide, and buy anything you + like.” + </p> + <p> + And as they were looking at him, staring, stupid with astonishment, + </p> + <p> + “Well, what of it?” he added with an oath. “Isn’t + it well, once in a while, to scatter the coins a little?” + </p> + <p> + Those unexpected thousand francs Maxence and Mlle. Gilberte applied to the + purchase of a shawl, which their mother had wished for ten years. + </p> + <p> + She laughed and she cried with pleasure and emotion, the poor woman; and, + whilst draping it over her shoulders, + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, my dear children,” she said: “your + father, after all, is not such a bad man.” + </p> + <p> + Of which they did not seem very well convinced. “One thing is + sure,” remarked Mlle. Gilberte: “to permit himself such + liberality, papa must be awfully rich.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral was not present at this scene. The yearly accounts kept + him so closely confined to his office, that he remained forty-eight hours + without coming home. A journey which he was compelled to undertake + for M. de Thaller consumed the balance of the week. + </p> + <p> + But on his return he seemed satisfied and quiet. Without giving up + his situation at the Mutual Credit, he was about, he stated, to associate + himself with the Messrs. Jottras, M. Saint Pavin of “The + Financial Pilot,” and M. Costeclar, to undertake the construction of + a foreign railway. + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar was at the head of this enterprise, the enormous profits of + which were so certain and so clear; that they could be figured in advance. + </p> + <p> + And whilst on this same subject, + </p> + <p> + “You were very wrong,” he said to Mlle. Gilberte, “not + to make haste and marry Costeclar when he was willing to have you. + You will never find another such match,—a man who, before ten years, + will be a financial power.” + </p> + <p> + The very name of M. Costeclar had the effect of irritating the young girl. + </p> + <p> + “I thought you had fallen out?” she said to her father. + </p> + <p> + “So we had,” he replied with some embarrassment, “because + he has never been willing to tell me why he had withdrawn; but people + always make up again when they have interests in common.” + </p> + <p> + Formerly, before the war, M. Favoral would certainly never have + condescended to enter into all these details. But he was becoming + almost communicative. Mlle. Gilberte, who was observing him with + interested attention, fancied she could see that he was yielding to that + necessity of expansion, more powerful than the will itself, which besets + the man who carries within him a weighty secret. + </p> + <p> + Whilst for twenty years he had, so to speak, never breathed a word on the + subject of the Thaller family, now he was continually speaking of them. + He told his Saturday friends all about the princely style of the baron, + the number of his servants and horses, the color of his liveries, the + parties that he gave, what he spent for pictures and objects of art, and + even the very names of his mistresses; for the baron had too much respect + for himself not to lay every year a few thousand napoleons at the feet of + some young lady sufficiently conspicuous to be mentioned in the society + newspapers. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral confessed that he did not approve the baron; but it was with a + sort of bitter hatred that he spoke of the baroness. It was + impossible, he affirmed to his guests, to estimate even approximately the + fabulous sums squandered by her, scattered, thrown to the four winds. + For she was not prodigal, she was prodigality itself,—that idiotic, + absurd, unconscious prodigality which melts a fortune in a turn of the + hand; which cannot even obtain from money the satisfaction of a want, a + wish, or a fancy. + </p> + <p> + He said incredible things of her,—things which made Mme. + Desclavettes jump upon her seat, explaining that he learned all these + details from M. de Thaller, who had often commissioned him to pay his + wife’s debts, and also from the baroness herself, who did not hesitate to + call sometimes at the office for twenty francs; for such was her want of + order, that, after borrowing all the savings of her servants, she + frequently had not two cents to throw to a beggar. + </p> + <p> + Neither did the cashier of the Mutual Credit seem to have a very good + opinion of Mademoiselle de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + Brought up at hap-hazard, in the kitchen much more than in the parlor, + until she was twelve, and, later, dragged by her mother anywhere,—to + the races, to the first representations, to the watering-places, always + escorted by a squadron of the young men of the bourse, Mlle. de Thaller + had adopted a style which would have been deemed detestable in a man. + As soon as some questionable fashion appeared, she appropriated it at + once, never finding any thing eccentric enough to make herself + conspicuous. She rode on horseback, fenced, frequented + pigeon-shooting matches, spoke slang, sang Theresa’s songs, emptied neatly + her glass of champagne, and smoked her cigarette. + </p> + <p> + The guests were struck dumb with astonishment. + </p> + <p> + “But those people must spend millions!” interrupted M. + Chapelain. + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral started as if he had been slapped on the back. + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” he answered. “They are so rich, so awfully + rich!” + </p> + <p> + He changed the conversation that evening; but on the following Saturday, + from the very beginning of the dinner, + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” he said, “that M. de Thaller has just + discovered a husband for his daughter.” + </p> + <p> + “My compliments!” exclaimed M. Desormeaux. “And + who may this bold fellow be?” + </p> + <p> + “A nobleman, of course,” he replied. “Isn’t that + the tradition? As soon as a financier has made his little million, + he starts in quest of a nobleman to give him his daughter.” + </p> + <p> + One of those painful presentiments, such as arise in the inmost recesses + of the soul, made Mlle. Gilberte turn pale. This presentiment + suggested to her an absurd, ridiculous, unlikely thing; and yet she was + sure that it would not deceive her,—so sure, indeed, that she rose + under the pretext of looking for something in the side-board, but in + reality to conceal the terrible emotion which she anticipated. + </p> + <p> + “And this gentleman?” inquired M. Chapelain. + </p> + <p> + “Is a marquis, if you please,—the Marquis de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + Well, yes, it was this very name that Mlle. Gilberte was expecting, and + well that she did; for she was thus able to command enough control over + herself to check the cry that rose to her throat. + </p> + <p> + “But this marriage is not made yet,” pursued M. Favoral. + “This marquis is not yet so completely ruined, that he can be made + to do any thing they please. Sure, the baroness has set her heart + upon it, oh! but with all her might!” + </p> + <p> + A discussion which now arose prevented Gilberte from learning any more; + and as soon as the dinner, which seemed eternal to her, was over, she + complained of a violent headache, and withdrew to her room. + </p> + <p> + She shook with fever; her teeth chattered. And yet she could not + believe that Marius was betraying her, nor that he could have the thought + of marrying such a girl as M. Favoral had described, and for money too! + Poor, ah! No, that was not admissible. Although she remembered + well that Marius had made her swear to believe nothing that might be said + of him, she spent a horrible Sunday, and she felt like throwing herself in + the Signor Gismondo’s arms, when, in giving her his lesson the following + Monday, + </p> + <p> + “My poor pupil,” he said, “feels miserable. A + marriage has been spoken of for him, for which he has a perfect horror; + and he trembles lest the rumor may reach his intended, whom he loves + exclusively.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte felt re-assured after that. And yet there remained in + her heart an invincible sadness. She could hardly doubt that this + matrimonial scheme was a part of the plan planned by Marius to recover his + fortune. But why, then, had he applied to M. de Thaller? Who + could be the man who had despoiled the Marquis de Tregars? + </p> + <p> + Such were the thoughts which occupied her mind on that Saturday evening + when the commissary of police presented himself in the Rue St. Gilles to + arrest M. Favoral, charged with embezzling ten or twelve millions. + </p> + <h2> + XXII + </h2> + <p> + The hour had now come for the denouement of that home tragedy which was + being enacted in the Rue St. Gilles. + </p> + <p> + The reader will remember the incidents narrated at the beginning of this + story,—M. de Thaller’s visit and angry words with M. Favoral, his + departure after leaving a package of bank-notes in Mlle. Gilberte’s hands, + the advent of the commissary of police, M. Favoral’s escape, and finally + the departure of the Saturday evening guests. + </p> + <p> + The disaster which struck Mme. Favoral and her children had been so sudden + and so crushing, that they had been, on the moment, too stupefied to + realize it. What had happened went so far beyond the limits of the + probable, of the possible even, that they could not believe it. The + too cruel scenes which had just taken place were to them like the absurd + incidents of a horrible nightmare. + </p> + <p> + But when their guests had retired after a few commonplace protestations, + when they found themselves alone, all three, in that house whose master + had just fled, tracked by the police,—then only, as the disturbed + equilibrium of their minds became somewhat restored, did they fully + realize the extent of the disaster, and the horror of the situation. + </p> + <p> + Whilst Mme. Favoral lay apparently lifeless on an arm-chair, Gilberte + kneeling at her feet, Maxence was walking up and down the parlor with + furious steps. He was whiter than the plaster on the halls; and a + cold perspiration glued his tangled hair to his temples. + </p> + <p> + His eyes glistening, and his fists clinched, + </p> + <p> + “Our father a thief!” he kept repeating in a hoarse voice, + “a forger!” + </p> + <p> + And in fact never had the slightest suspicion arisen in his mind. In + these days of doubtful reputations, he had been proud indeed of M. + Favoral’s reputation of austere integrity. And he had endured many a + cruel reproach, saying to himself that his father had, by his own spotless + conduct, acquired the right to be harsh and exacting. + </p> + <p> + “And he has stolen twelve millions!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + And he went on, trying to calculate all the luxury and splendor which such + a sum represents, all the cravings gratified, all the dreams realized, all + it can procure of things that may be bought. And what things are not + for sale for twelve millions! + </p> + <p> + Then he examined the gloomy home in the Rue St. Gilles,—the + contracted dwelling, the faded furniture, the prodigies of a parsimonious + industry, his mother’s privations, his sister’s penury, and his own + distress. And he exclaimed again, + </p> + <p> + “It is a monstrous infamy!” + </p> + <p> + The words of the commissary of police had opened his eyes; and he now + fancied the most wonderful things. M. Favoral, in his mind, assumed + fabulous proportions. By what miracles of hypocrisy and + dissimulation had he succeeded in making himself ubiquitous as it were, + and, without awaking a suspicion, living two lives so distinct and so + different,—here, in the midst of his family, parsimonious, methodic, + and severe; elsewhere, in some illicit household, doubtless facile, + smiling, and generous, like a successful thief. + </p> + <p> + For Maxence considered the bills found in the secretary as a flagrant, + irrefutable and material proof. + </p> + <p> + Upon the brink of that abyss of shame into which his father had just + tumbled, he thought he could see, not the inevitable woman, that incentive + of all human actions, but the entire legion of those bewitching courtesans + who possess unknown crucibles wherein to swell fortunes, and who have + secret filtres to stupefy their dupes, and strip them of their honor, + after robbing them of their last cent. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” said Maxence,—“I, because at twenty I was + fond of pleasure, I was called a bad son! Because I had made some + three hundred francs of debts, I was deemed a swindler! Because I + love a poor girl who has for me the most disinterested affection, I am one + of those rascals whom their family disown, and from whom nothing can be + expected but shame and disgrace!” + </p> + <p> + He filled the parlor with the sound of his voice, which rose like his + wrath. + </p> + <p> + And at the thought of all the bitter reproaches which had been addressed + to him by his father, and of all the humiliations that had been heaped + upon him, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, the wretch!” he fairly shrieked, “—the + coward!” + </p> + <p> + As pale as her brother, her face bathed in tears, and her beautiful hair + hanging undone, Mlle. Gilberte drew herself up. + </p> + <p> + “He is our father, Maxence,” she said gently. + </p> + <p> + But he interrupted her with a wild burst of laughter. “True,” + he answered; “and, by virtue of the law which is written in the + code, we owe him affection and respect.” + </p> + <p> + “Maxence!” murmured the girl in a beseeching tone. But + he went on, nevertheless, + </p> + <p> + “Yes, he is our father, unfortunately. But I should like to + know his titles to our respect and our affection. After making our + mother the most miserable of creatures, he has embittered our existence, + withered our youth, ruined my future, and done his best to spoil yours by + compelling you to marry Costeclar. And, to crown all these deeds of + kindness, he runs away now, after stealing twelve millions, leaving us + nothing but misery and a disgraced name. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he added, “is it possible that a cashier + should take twelve millions, and his employer know nothing of it? + And is our father really the only man who benefitted by these millions?” + </p> + <p> + Then came back to the mind of Maxence and Mlle. Gilberte the last words of + their father at the moment of his flight, + </p> + <p> + “I have been betrayed; and I must suffer for all!” + </p> + <p> + And his sincerity could hardly be called in question; for he was then in + one of those moments of decisive crisis in which the truth forces itself + out in spite of all calculation. + </p> + <p> + “He must have accomplices then,” murmured Maxence. + </p> + <p> + Although he had spoken very low, Mme. Favoral overheard him. To + defend her husband, she found a remnant of energy, and, straightening + herself on her seat, + </p> + <p> + “Ah! do not doubt it,” she stammered out. “Of his + own inspiration, Vincent could never have committed an evil act. He + has been circumvented, led away, duped!” + </p> + <p> + “Very well; but by whom?” + </p> + <p> + “By Costeclar,” affirmed Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + “By the Messrs. Jottras, the bankers,” said Mme. + Favoral, “and also by M. Saint Pavin, the editor of ‘the + Financial Pilot.’” + </p> + <p> + “By all of them, evidently,” interrupted Maxence, “even + by his manager, M. de Thaller.” + </p> + <p> + When a man is at the bottom of a precipice, what is the use of finding out + how he has got there,—whether by stumbling over a stone, or slipping + on a tuft of grass! And yet it is always our foremost thought. + It was with an eager obstinacy that Mme. Favoral and her children ascended + the course of their existence, seeking in the past the incidents and the + merest words which might throw some light upon their disaster; for it was + quite manifest that it was not in one day and at the same time that twelve + millions had been subtracted from the Mutual Credit. This enormous + deficit must have been, as usual, made gradually, with infinite caution at + first, whilst there was a desire, and some hope, to make it good again, + then with mad recklessness towards the end when the catastrophe had become + inevitable. + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” murmured Mme. Favoral, “why did not Vincent + listen to my presentiments on that ever fatal day when he brought M. de + Thaller, M. Jottras, and M. Saint Pavin to dine here? They promised + him a fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence and Mlle. Gilberte were too young at the time of that dinner to + have preserved any remembrance of it; but they remembered many other + circumstances, which, at the time they had taken place, had not struck + them. They understood now the temper of their father, his perpetual + irritation, and the spasms of his humor. When his friends were + heaping insults upon him, he had exclaimed, + </p> + <p> + “Be it so! let them arrest me; and to-night, for the first time in + many years, I shall sleep in peace.” + </p> + <p> + There were years, then, that he lived, as it were upon burning coals, + trembling at the fear of discovery, and wondering, as he went to sleep + each night, whether he would not be awakened by the rude hand of the + police tapping him on the shoulder. No one better than Mme. Favoral + could affirm it. + </p> + <p> + “Your father, my children,” she said, “had long since + lost his sleep. There was hardly ever a night that he did not get up + and walk the room for hours.” + </p> + <p> + They understood, now, his efforts to compel Mlle. Gilberte to marry M. + Costeclar. + </p> + <p> + “He thought that Costeclar would help him out of the scrape,” + suggested Maxence to his sister. + </p> + <p> + The poor girl shuddered at the thought, and she could not help feeling + thankful to her father for not having told her his situation; for would + she have had the sublime courage to refuse the sacrifice, if her father + had told her? + </p> + <p> + “I have stolen! I am lost! Costeclar alone can save me; + and he will save me if you become his wife.” + </p> + <p> + M. Favoral’s pleasant behavior during the siege was quite natural. + Then he had no fears; and one could understand how in the most critical + hours of the Commune, when Paris was in flames, he could have exclaimed + almost cheerfully, + </p> + <p> + “Ah! this time it is indeed the final liquidation.” + </p> + <p> + Doubtless, in the bottom of his heart, he wished that Paris might be + destroyed, and, with it, the evidences of his crime. And perhaps he + was not the only one to form that impious wish. + </p> + <p> + “That’s why, then,” exclaimed Maxence,—“that’s why + my father treated me so rudely: that’s why he so obstinately + persisted in closing the offices of the Mutual Credit against me.” + </p> + <p> + He was interrupted by a violent ringing of the door-bell. He looked + at the clock: ten o’clock was about to strike. + </p> + <p> + “Who can call so late?” said Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Something like a discussion was heard in the hall,—a voice hoarse + with anger, and the servant’s voice. + </p> + <p> + “Go and see who’s there,” said Gilberte to her brother. + </p> + <p> + It was useless; the servant appeared. + </p> + <p> + “It’s M. Bertan,” she commenced, “the baker—” + He had followed her, and, pushing her aside with his robust arm, he + appeared himself. He was a man about forty years of age, tall, thin, + already bald, and wearing his beard trimmed close. + </p> + <p> + “M. Favoral?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “My father is not at home,” replied Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “It’s true, then, what I have just been told?” + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “That the police came to arrest him, and he escaped through a + window.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s true,” replied Maxence gently. + </p> + <p> + The baker seemed prostrated. + </p> + <p> + “And my money?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “What money?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, my ten thousand francs! Ten thousand francs which I + brought to M. Favoral, in gold, you hear? in ten rolls, which I placed + there, on that very table, and for which he gave me a receipt. Here + it is,—his receipt.” + </p> + <p> + He held out a paper; but Maxence did not take it. + </p> + <p> + “I do not doubt your word, sir,” he replied; “but my + father’s business is not ours.” + </p> + <p> + “You refuse to give me back my money?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither my mother, my sister, nor myself, have any thing.” + </p> + <p> + The blood rushed to the man’s face, and, with a tongue made thick by + anger, + </p> + <p> + “And you think you are going to pay me off in that way?” he + exclaimed. “You have nothing! Poor little fellow! + And will you tell me, then, what has become of the twenty millions your + father has stolen? for he has stolen twenty millions. I know it: + I have been told so. Where are they?” + </p> + <p> + “The police, sir, has placed the seals over my fathers papers.” + </p> + <p> + “The police?” interrupted the baker, “the seals? + What do I care for that? It’s my money I want: do you hear? + Justice is going to take a hand in it, is it? Arrest your father, + try him? What good will that do me? He will be condemned to + two or three years’ imprisonment. Will that give me a cent? He + will serve out his time quietly; and, when he gets out of prison, he’ll + get hold of the pile that he’s got hidden somewhere; and while I starve, + he’ll spend my money under my very nose. No, no! Things won’t + suit me that way. It’s at once that I want to be paid.” + </p> + <p> + And throwing himself upon a chair his head back, and his legs stretched + forward— + </p> + <p> + “And what’s more,” he declared, “I am not going out of + here until I am paid.” + </p> + <p> + It was not without the greatest efforts that Maxence managed to keep his + temper. + </p> + <p> + “Your insults are useless, sir,” he commenced. + </p> + <p> + The man jumped up from his seat. + </p> + <p> + “Insults!” he cried in a voice that could have been heard all + through the house. “Do you call it an insult when a man claims + his own? If you think you can make me hush, you are mistaken in your + man, M. Favoral, Jun. I am not rich myself: my father has not + stolen to leave me an income. It is not in gambling at the bourse + that I made these ten thousand francs. It is by the sweat of my + body, by working hard night and day for years, by depriving myself of a + glass of wine when I was thirsty. And I am to lose them? By + the holy name of heaven, we’ll have to see about that! If everybody + was like me, there would not be so many scoundrels going about, their + pockets filled with other people’s money, and from the top of their + carriage laughing at the poor fools they have ruined. Come, my ten + thousand francs, canaille, or I take my pay on your back.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence, enraged, was about to throw himself upon the man, and a + disgusting struggle was about to begin, when Mlle. Gilberte stepped + between them. + </p> + <p> + “Your threats are as cowardly as your insults, Monsieur Bertan,” + she uttered in a quivering voice. “You have known us long + enough to be aware that we know nothing of our father’s business, and that + we have nothing ourselves. All we can do is to give up to our + creditors our very last crumb. Thus it shall be done. And now, + sir, please retire.” + </p> + <p> + There was so much dignity in her sorrow, and so imposing was her attitude, + that the baker stood abashed. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! if that’s the way,” he stammered awkwardly; “and + since you meddle with it, mademoiselle—” And he retreated + precipitately, growling at the same time threats and excuses, and slamming + the doors after him hard enough to break the partitions. + </p> + <p> + “What a disgrace!” murmured Mme. Favoral. Crushed by + this last scene, she was choking; and her children had to carry her to the + open window. She recovered almost at once; but thus, through the + darkness, bleak and cold, she had like a vision of her husband; and, + throwing herself back, + </p> + <p> + “O great heavens!” she uttered, “where did he go when he + left us? Where is he now? What is he doing? What has + become of him?” + </p> + <p> + Her married life had been for Mme. Favoral but a slow torture. It + was in vain that she would have looked back through her past life for some + of those happy days which leave their luminous track in life, and towards + which the mind turns in the hours of grief. Vincent Favoral had + never been aught but a brutal despot, abusing the resignation of his + victim. And yet, had he died, she would have wept bitterly over him + in all the sincerity of her honest and simple soul. Habit! + Prisoners have been known to shed tears over the grave of their jailer. + Then he was her husband, after all, the father of her children, the only + man who existed for her. For twenty-six years they had never been + separated: they had sat at the same table: they had slept side + by side. + </p> + <p> + Yes, she would have wept over him. But how much less poignant would + her grief have been than at this moment, when it was complicated by all + the torments of uncertainty, and by the most frightful apprehensions! + </p> + <p> + Fearing lest she might take cold, her children had removed her to the + sofa, and there, all shivering, + </p> + <p> + “Isn’t it horrible,” she said, “not to know any thing of + your father? —to think that at this very moment, perhaps, pursued by + the police, he is wandering in despair through the streets, without daring + to ask anywhere for shelter.” + </p> + <p> + Her children had no time to answer and comfort her; for at this moment the + door-bell rang again. + </p> + <p> + “Who can it be now?” said Mme. Favoral with a start. + </p> + <p> + This time there was no discussion in the hall. Steps sounded on the + floor of the dining-room; the door opened; and M. Desclavettes, the old + bronze-merchant, walked, or rather slipped into the parlor. + </p> + <p> + Hope, fear, anger, all the sentiments which agitated his soul, could be + read on his pale and cat-like face. + </p> + <p> + “It is I,” he commenced. + </p> + <p> + Maxence stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard any thing from my father, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” answered the old merchant, “I confess I have not; + and I was just coming to see if you had yourselves. Oh, I know very + well that this is not exactly the hour to call at a house; but I thought, + that, after what took place this evening, you would not be in bed yet. + I could not sleep myself. You understand a friendship of twenty + years’ standing! So I took Mme. Desclavettes home, and here I am.” + </p> + <p> + “We feel very thankful for your kindness,” murmured Mme. + Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you do. The fact is, you see, I take a good deal of + interest in the misfortune that strikes you,—a greater interest than + any one else. For, after all, I, too, am a victim. I had + intrusted one hundred and twenty thousand francs to our dear Vincent.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas, sir!” said Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + But the worthy man did not allow her to proceed. “I have no + fault to find with him,” he went on—“absolutely none. + Why, dear me! haven’t I been in business myself? and don’t I know what it + is? First, we borrow a thousand francs or so from the cash account, + then ten thousand, then a hundred thousand. Oh! without any bad + intention, to be sure, and with the firm resolution to return them. + But we don’t always do what we wish to do. Circumstances sometimes + work against us, if we operate at the bourse to make up the deficit we + lose. Then we must borrow again, draw from Peter to pay Paul. + We are afraid of being caught: we are compelled, reluctantly of + course, to alter the books. At last a day comes when we find that + millions are gone, and the bomb-shell bursts. Does it follow from + this that a man is dishonest? Not the least in the world: he + is simply unlucky.” + </p> + <p> + He stopped, as if awaiting an answer; but, as none came, he resumed, + </p> + <p> + “I repeat, I have no fault to find with Favoral. Only then, + now, between us, to lose these hundred and twenty thousand francs would + simply be a disaster for me. I know very well that both Chapelain + and Desormeaux had also deposited funds with Favoral. But they are + rich: one of them owns three houses in Paris, and the other has a + good situation; whereas I, these hundred and twenty thousand francs gone, + I’d have nothing left but my eyes to weep with. My wife is dying + about it. I assure you our position is a terrible one.” + </p> + <p> + To M. Desclavettes,—as to the baker a few moments before, + </p> + <p> + “We have nothing,” said Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “I know it,” exclaimed the old merchant. “I know + it as well as you do yourself. And so I have come to beg a little + favor of you, which will cost you nothing. When you see Favoral, + remember me to him, explain my situation to him, and try to make him give + me back my money. He is a hard one to fetch, that’s a fact. + But if you go right about it, above all, if our dear Gilberte will take + the matter in hand.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I swear I sha’n’t say a word about it, either to + Desormeaux or Chapelain, nor to any one else. Although reimbursed, + I’ll make as much noise as the rest,—more noise, even. Come, + now, my dear friends, what do you say?” + </p> + <p> + He was almost crying. + </p> + <p> + “And where the deuse,” exclaimed Maxence, “do you expect + my father to take a hundred and twenty thousand francs? Didn’t you + see him go without even taking the money that M. de Thaller had brought?” + </p> + <p> + A smile appeared upon M. Desclavettes’ pale lips. + </p> + <p> + “That will do very well to say, my dear Maxence;” he said, + “and some people may believe it. But don’t say it to your old + friend, who knows too much about business for that. When a man puts + off, after borrowing twelve millions from his employers, he would be a + great fool if he had not put away two or three in safety. Now, + Favoral is not a fool.” + </p> + <p> + Tears of shame and anger started from Mlle. Gilberte’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What you are saying is abominable, sir!” she exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + He seemed much surprised at this outburst of violence. + </p> + <p> + “Why so?” he answered. “In Vincent’s place, I + should not have hesitated to do what he has certainly done. And I am + an honest man too. I was in business for twenty years; and I dare + any one to prove that a note signed Desclavettes ever went to protest. + And so, my dear friends, I beseech you, consent to serve your old friend, + and, when you see your father—” + </p> + <p> + The old man’s tone of voice exasperated even Mme. Favoral herself. + </p> + <p> + “We never expect to see my husband again,” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + He shrugged his shoulders, and, in a tone of paternal reproach, + </p> + <p> + “You just give up all such ugly ideas,” he said. “You + will see him again, that dear Vincent; for he is much too sharp to allow + himself to be caught. Of course, he’ll stay away as long as it may + be necessary; but, as soon as he can return without danger, he will do so. + The Statute of Limitations has not been invented for the Grand Turk. + Why, the Boulevard is crowded with people who have all had their little + difficulty, and who have spent five or ten years abroad for their health. + Does any one think any thing of it? Not in the least; and no one + hesitates to shake hands with them. Besides, those things are so + soon forgotten.” + </p> + <p> + He kept on as if he never intended to stop; and it was not without trouble + that Maxence and Gilberte succeeded in sending him off, very much + dissatisfied to see his request so ill received. It was after twelve + o’clock. Maxence was anxious to return to his own home; but, at the + pressing instances of his mother, he consented to remain, and threw + himself, without undressing, on the bed in his old room. + </p> + <p> + “What will the morrow bring forth?” he thought. + </p> + <h2> + XXIII + </h2> + <p> + After a few hours of that leaden sleep which follows great catastrophes, + Mme. Favoral and her children were awakened on the morning of the next + day, which was Sunday, by the furious clamors of an exasperated crowd. + Each one, from his own room, understood that the apartment had just been + invaded. Loud blows upon the door were mingled with the noise of + feet, the oaths of men, and the screams of women. And, above this + confused and continuous tumult, such vociferations as these could be + heard: + </p> + <p> + “I tell you they must be at home!” + </p> + <p> + “Canailles, swindlers, thieves!” + </p> + <p> + “We want to go in: we will go in!” + </p> + <p> + “Let the woman come, then: we want to see her, to speak to + her!” + </p> + <p> + Occasionally there were moments of silence, during which the plaintive + voice of the servant could be heard; but almost at once the cries and the + threats commenced again, louder than ever. Maxence, being ready + first, ran to the parlor, where his mother and sister joined him directly, + their eyes swollen by sleep and by tears. Mme. Favoral was trembling + so much that she could not succeed in fastening her dress. + </p> + <p> + “Do you hear?” she said in a choking voice. + </p> + <p> + From the parlor, which was divided from the dining-room by folding-doors, + they did not miss a single insult. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mlle. Gilberte coldly, “what else could we + expect? If Bertan came alone last night, it is because he alone had + been notified. Here are the others now.” + </p> + <p> + And, turning to her brother, + </p> + <p> + “You must see them,” she added, “speak to them.” + </p> + <p> + But Maxence did not stir. The idea of facing the insults and the + curses of these enraged creditors was too repugnant to him. + </p> + <p> + “Would you rather let them break in the door?” said Mlle. + Gilberte. “That won’t take long.” + </p> + <p> + He hesitated no more. Gathering all his courage, he stepped into the + dining-room. The disorder was beyond limits. The table had + been pushed towards one of the corners, the chairs were upset. They + were there some thirty men and women,—concierges, shop-keepers, and + retired bourgeois of the neighborhood, their cheeks flushed, their eyes + staring, gesticulating as if they had a fit, shaking their clinched fists + at the ceiling. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” commenced Maxence. + </p> + <p> + But his voice was drowned by the most frightful shouts. He had + hardly got in, when he was so closely surrounded, that he had been unable + to close the parlor-door after him, and had been driven and backed against + the embrasure of a window. + </p> + <p> + “My father, gentlemen,” he resumed. + </p> + <p> + Again he was interrupted. There were three or four before him, who + were endeavoring before all to establish their own claims clearly. + </p> + <p> + They were speaking all at once, each one raising his own voice so as to + drown that of the others. And yet, through their confused + explanations, it was easy to understand the way in which the cashier of + the Mutual Credit had managed things. + </p> + <p> + Formerly it was only with great reluctance that he consented to take + charge of the funds which were offered to him; and then he never accepted + sums less than ten thousand francs, being always careful to say, that, not + being a prophet, he could not answer for any thing, and might be mistaken, + like any one else. Since the Commune, on the contrary, and with a + duplicity, that could never have been suspected, he had used all his + ingenuity to attract deposits. Under some pretext or other, he would + call among the neighbors, the shop-keepers; and, after lamenting with them + about the hard times and the difficulty of making money, he always ended + by holding up to them the dazzling profits which are yielded by certain + investments unknown to the public. + </p> + <p> + If these very proceedings had not betrayed him, it is because he + recommended to each the most inviolable secrecy, saying, that, at the + slightest indiscretion, he would be assailed with demands, and that it + would be impossible for him to do for all what he did for one. + </p> + <p> + At any rate, he took every thing that was offered, even the most + insignificant sums, affirming, with the most imperturbable assurance, that + he could double or treble them without the slightest risk. + </p> + <p> + The catastrophe having come, the smaller creditors showed themselves, as + usual, the most angry and the most intractable. The less money one + has, the more anxious one is to keep it. There was there an old + newspaper-vender, who had placed in M. Favoral’s hands all she had in the + world, the savings of her entire life,—five hundred francs. + Clinging desperately to Maxence’s garments, she begged him to give them + back to her, swearing, that, if he did not, there was nothing left for her + to do, except to throw herself in the river. Her groans and her + cries of distress exasperated the other creditors. + </p> + <p> + That the cashier of the Mutual Credit should have embezzled millions, they + could well understand, they said. But that he could have robbed this + poor woman of her five hundred francs,—nothing more low, more + cowardly, and more vile could be imagined; and the law had no chastisement + severe enough for such a crime. + </p> + <p> + “Give her back her five hundred francs;” they cried. For + there was not one of them but would have wagered his head that M. Favoral + had lots of money put away; and some went even so far as to say that he + must have hid it in the house, and, if they looked well, they would find + it. + </p> + <p> + Maxence, bewildered, was at a loss what to do, when, in the midst of this + hostile crowd, he perceived M. Chapelain’s friendly face. + </p> + <p> + Driven from his bed at daylight by the bitter regrets at the heavy loss he + had just sustained, the old lawyer had arrived in the Rue St. Gilles at + the very moment when the creditors invaded M. Favoral’s apartment. + Standing behind the crowd, he had seen and heard every thing without + breathing a word; and, if he interfered now, it was because he thought + things were about to take an ugly turn. He was well known; and, as + soon as he showed himself, + </p> + <p> + “He is a friend of the rascal!” they shouted on all sides. + </p> + <p> + But he was not the man to be so easily frightened. He had seen many + a worse case during twenty years that he had practised law, and had + witnessed all the sinister comedies and all the grotesque dramas of money. + He knew how to speak to infuriated creditors, how to handle them, and what + strings can be made to vibrate within them. In the most quiet tone, + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” he answered, “I was Favoral’s intimate + friend; and the proof of it is, that he has treated me more friendly than + the rest. I am in for a hundred and sixty thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + By this mere declaration he conquered the sympathies of the crowd. + He was a brother in misfortune; they respected him: he was a skilful + business-man; they stopped to listen to him. + </p> + <p> + At once, and in a short and trenchant tone, he asked these invaders what + they were doing there, and what they wanted. Did they not know to + what they exposed themselves in violating a domicile? What would + have happened, if, instead of stopping to parley, Maxence had sent for the + commissary of police? Was it to Mme. Favoral and her children that + they had intrusted their funds? No! What did they want with + them then? Was there by chance among them some of those shrewd + fellows who always try to get themselves paid in full, to the detriment of + the others? + </p> + <p> + This last insinuation proved sufficient to break up the perfect accord + that had hitherto existed among all the creditors. Distrust arose; + suspicious glances were exchanged; and, as the old newspaper woman was + keeping up her groans, + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know why you should be paid before us,” two + women told her roughly. “Our rights are just as good as yours!” + </p> + <p> + Prompt to avail himself of the dispositions of the crowd, + </p> + <p> + “And, moreover,” resumed the old lawyer, “in whom did we + place our confidence? Was it in Favoral the private individual? + To a certain extent, yes; but it was much more to the cashier of the + Mutual Credit. Therefore that establishment owes us, at least, some + explanations. And this is not all. Are we really so badly + burned, that we should scream so loud? What do we know about it? + That Favoral is charged with embezzlement, that they came to arrest him, + and that he has run away. Is that any reason why our money should be + lost? I hope not. And so what should we do? Act + prudently, and wait patiently for the work of justice.” + </p> + <p> + Already, by this time, the creditors had slipped out one by one; and soon + the servant closed the door on the last of them. + </p> + <p> + Then Mme. Favoral, Maxence, and Mlle. Gilberte surrounded M. Chapelain, + and, pressing his hands, + </p> + <p> + “How thankful we feel, sir, for the service you have just rendered + us!” + </p> + <p> + But the old lawyer seemed in no wise proud of his victory. + </p> + <p> + “Do not thank me,” he said. “I have only done my + duty,—what any honest man would have done in my place.” + </p> + <p> + And yet, under the appearance of impassible coldness, which he owed to the + long practice of a profession which leaves no illusions, he evidently felt + a real emotion. + </p> + <p> + “It is you whom I pity,” he added, “and with all my + soul,—you, madame, you, my dear Gilberte, and you, too, Maxence. + Never had I so well understood to what degree is guilty the head of a + family who leaves his wife and children exposed to the consequences of his + crimes.” + </p> + <p> + He stopped. The servant was trying her best to put the dining-room + in some sort of order wheeling the table to the centre of the room, and + lifting up the chairs from the floor. + </p> + <p> + “What pillage!” she grumbled. “Neighbors too,—people + from whom we bought our things! But they were worse than savages; + impossible to do any thing with them.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t trouble yourself, my good girl,” said M. Chapelain: + “they won’t come back any more!” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral looked as if she wished to drop on her knees before the old + lawyer. + </p> + <p> + “How, very kind you are!” she murmured: “you are + not too angry with my poor Vincent!” + </p> + <p> + With the look of a man who has made up his mind to make the best of a + disaster that he cannot help, M. Chapelain shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “I am angry with no one but myself,” he uttered in a bluff + tone. “An old bird like me should not have allowed himself to + be caught in a pigeon-trap. I am inexcusable. But we want to + get rich. It’s slow work getting rich by working, and it’s so much + easier to get the money already made out of our neighbor’s pockets! + I have been unable to resist the temptation myself. It’s my own + fault; and I should say it was a good lesson, if it did not cost so dear.” + </p> + <h2> + XXIV + </h2> + <p> + So much philosophy could hardly have been expected of him. + </p> + <p> + “All my father’s friends are not as indulgent as you are,” + said Maxence,—“M. Desclavettes, for instance.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, last night, about twelve o’clock. He came to ask us to + get father to pay him back, if we should ever see him again.” + </p> + <p> + “That might be an idea!” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte started. + </p> + <p> + “What!” said she, “you, too, sir, can imagine that my + father has run away with millions?” + </p> + <p> + The old lawyer shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I believe nothing,” he answered. “Favoral has + taken me in so completely,—me, who had the pretension of being a + judge of men, —that nothing from him, either for good or for evil, + could surprise me hereafter.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral was about to offer some objection; but he stopped her with a + gesture. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he went on, “I’d bet that he has gone off + with empty pockets. His recent operations reveal a frightful + distress. Had he had a few thousand francs at his command, would he + have extorted five hundred francs from a poor old woman, a + newspaper-vender? What did he want with the money? Try his + luck once more, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + He was seated, his elbow upon the arm of the chair, his head resting upon + his hands, thinking; and the contraction of his features indicated an + extraordinary tension of mind. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly he drew himself up. + </p> + <p> + “But why,” he exclaimed, “why wander in idle + conjectures? What do we know about Favoral? Nothing. One + entire side of his existence escapes us,—that fantastic side, of + which the insane prodigalities and inconceivable disorders have been + revealed to us by the bills found in his desk. He is certainly + guilty; but is he as guilty as we think? and, above all, is he alone + guilty? Was it for himself alone that he drew all this money? + Are the missing millions really lost? and wouldn’t it be possible to find + the biggest share of them in the pockets of some accomplice? Skilful + men do not expose themselves. They have at their command poor + wretches, sacrificed in advance, and who, in exchange for a few crumbs + that are thrown to them, risk the criminal court, are condemned, and go to + prison.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s just what I was telling my mother and sister, sir,” + interrupted Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “And that’s what I am telling myself,” continued the old + lawyer. “I have been thinking over and over again of last + evening’s scene; and strange doubts have occurred to my mind. For a + man who has been robbed of a dozen millions, M. de Thaller was remarkably + quiet and self-possessed. Favoral appeared to me singularly calm for + a man charged with embezzlement and forgery. M. de Thaller, as + manager of the Mutual Credit, is really responsible for the stolen funds, + and, as such, should have been anxious to secure the guilty party, and to + produce him. Instead of that, he wished him to go, and actually + brought him the money to enable him to leave. Was he in hopes of + hushing up the affair? Evidently not, since the police had been + notified. On the other hand, Favoral seemed much more angry than + surprised by the occurrence. It was only on the appearance of the + commissary of police that he seems to have lost his head; and then some + very strange things escaped him, which I cannot understand.” + </p> + <p> + He was walking at random through the parlor, apparently rather answering + the objections of his own mind than addressing himself to his + interlocutors, who were listening, nevertheless, with all the attention of + which they were capable. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know,” he went on. “An old traveler like + me to be taken in thus! Evidently there is under all this one of + those diabolical combinations which time even fails to unravel. We + ought to see, to inquire—” + </p> + <p> + And then, suddenly stopping in front of Maxence, + </p> + <p> + “How much did M. de Thaller bring to your father last evening?” + he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Fifteen thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are they?” + </p> + <p> + “Put away in mother’s room.” + </p> + <p> + “When do you expect to take them back to M. de Thaller?” + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not to-day?” + </p> + <p> + “This is Sunday. The offices of the Mutual Credit must be + closed.” + </p> + <p> + “After the occurrences of yesterday, M. de Thaller must be at his + office. Besides, haven’t you his private address?” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, I have.” + </p> + <p> + The old lawyer’s small eyes were shining with unusual brilliancy. He + certainly felt deeply the loss of his money; but the idea that he had been + swindled for the benefit of some clever rascal was absolutely + insupportable to him. + </p> + <p> + “If we were wise,” he said again, “we’d do this. + Mme. Favoral would take these fifteen thousand francs, and we would go + together, she and I, to see M. de Thaller.” + </p> + <p> + It was an unexpected good-fortune for Mme. Favoral, that M. Chapelain + should consent to assist her. So, without hesitating, + </p> + <p> + “The time to dress, sir,” she said, “and I am ready.” + She left the parlor; but as she reached her room, her son joined her. + </p> + <p> + “I am obliged to go out, dear mother,” he said; “and I + shall probably not be home to breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with an air of painful surprise. “What,” + she said, “at such a moment!” + </p> + <p> + “I am expected home.” + </p> + <p> + “By whom? A woman?” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And it is for that woman’s sake that you want to leave your sister + alone at home?” + </p> + <p> + “I must, mother, I assure you; and, if you only knew—” + </p> + <p> + “I do not wish to know, any thing.” + </p> + <p> + But his resolution had been taken. He went off; and a few moments + later Mme. Favoral and M. Chapelain entered a cab which had been sent for, + and drove to M. de Thaller’s. + </p> + <p> + Left alone, Mlle. Gilberte had but one thought,—to notify M. de + Tregars, and obtain word from him. Any thing seemed preferable to + the horrible anxiety which oppressed her. She had just commenced a + letter, which she intended to have taken to the Count de Villegre, when a + violent ring of the bell made her start; and almost immediately the + servant came in, saying, + </p> + <p> + “It is a gentleman who wishes to see you, a friend of monsieur’s, + —M. Costeclar, you know.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte started to her feet, trembling with excitement. + </p> + <p> + “That’s too much impudence!” she exclaimed. She was + hesitating whether to refuse him the door, or to see him, and dismiss him + shamefully herself, when she had a sudden inspiration. “What + does he want?” she thought. “Why not see him, and try + and find out what he knows? For he certainly must know the truth.” + </p> + <p> + But it was no longer time to deliberate. Above the servant’s + shoulder M. Costeclar’s pale and impudent face showed itself. + </p> + <p> + The girl having stepped to one side, he appeared, hat in hand. + Although it was not yet nine o’clock, his morning toilet was + irreproachably correct. He had already passed through the + hair-dresser’s hands; and his scanty hair was brought forward over his low + fore-head with the usual elaborate care. + </p> + <p> + He wore a pair of those ridiculous trousers which grow wide from the knee + down, and which were invented by Prussian tailors to hide their customers’ + ugly feet. Under his light-colored overcoat could be seen a + velvet-faced jacket, with a rose in its buttonhole. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, he remained motionless on the threshold of the door, trying to + smile, and muttering one of those sentences which are never intended to be + finished. + </p> + <p> + “I beg you to believe, mademoiselle—your mother’s absence—my + most respectful admiration—” + </p> + <p> + In fact, he was taken aback by the disorder of the girl’s toilet, —disorder + which she had had no time to repair since the clamors of the creditors had + started her from her bed. + </p> + <p> + She wore a long brown cashmere wrapper, fitting quite close over the hips + setting off the vigorous elegance of her figure, the maidenly perfections + of her waist, and the exquisite contour of her neck. Gathered up in + haste, her thick blonde hair escaped from beneath the pins, and spread + over her shoulders in luminous cascades. Never had she appeared to + M. Costeclar as lovely as at this moment, when her whole frame was + vibrating with suppressed indignation, her cheeks flushed, her eyes + flashing. + </p> + <p> + “Please come in, sir,” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + He stepped forward, no longer bowing humbly as formerly, but with legs + outstretched, chest thrown out, with an ill-concealed look of gratified + vanity. “I did not expect the honor of your visit, sir,” + said the young girl. + </p> + <p> + Passing rapidly his hat and his cane from the right hand into the left, + and then the right hand upon his heart, his eyes raised to the ceiling, + and with all the depth of expression of which he was capable, + </p> + <p> + “It is in times of adversity that we know our real friends, + mademoiselle,” he uttered. “Those upon whom we thought + we could rely the most, often, at the first reverse, take flight forever!” + </p> + <p> + She felt a shiver pass over her. Was this an allusion to Marius? + </p> + <p> + The other, changing his tone, went on, + </p> + <p> + “It’s only last night that I heard of poor Favoral’s discomfiture, + at the bourse where I had gone for news. It was the general topic of + conversation. Twelve millions! That’s pretty hard. The + Mutual Credit Society might not be able to stand it. From 580, at + which it was selling before the news, it dropped at once to 300. At + nine o’clock, there were no takers at 180. And yet, if there is + nothing beyond what they say, at 180, I am in.” + </p> + <p> + Was he forgetting himself, or pretending to? + </p> + <p> + “But please excuse me, mademoiselle,” he resumed: + “that’s not what I came to tell you. I came to ask if you had + any news of our poor Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + “We have none, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it is true: he succeeded in getting away through this + window?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And he did not tell you where he meant to take refuge?” + </p> + <p> + Observing M. Costeclar with all her power of penetration, Mlle. Gilberte + fancied she discovered in him something like a certain surprise mingled + with joy. + </p> + <p> + “Then Favoral must have left without a sou!” + </p> + <p> + “They accuse him of having carried away millions, sir; but I would + swear that it is not so.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar approved with a nod. + </p> + <p> + “I am of the same opinion,” he declared, “unless—but + no, he was not the man to try such a game. And yet—but again + no, he was too closely watched. Besides, he was carrying a very + heavy load, a load that exhausted all his resources.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte, hoping that she was going to learn something, made an + effort to preserve her indifference. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” she inquired. + </p> + <p> + He looked at her, smiled, and, in a light tone, + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” he answered, “only some conjectures of my + own.” + </p> + <p> + And throwing himself upon a chair, his head leaning upon its back, + </p> + <p> + “That is not the object of my visit either,” he uttered. + “Favoral is overboard: don’t let us say any thing more about + him. Whether he has got ‘the bag’ or not, you’ll never + see him again: he is as good as dead. Let us, therefore, talk + of the living, of yourself. What’s going to become of you?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not understand your question, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “It is perfectly limpid, nevertheless. I am asking myself how + you are going to live, your mother and yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Providence will not abandon us, sir.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar had crossed his legs, and with the end of his cane he was + negligently tapping his immaculate boot. + </p> + <p> + “Providence!” he giggled; “that’s very good on the + stage, in a play, with low music in the orchestra. I can just see + it. In real life, unfortunately, the life which we both live, you + and I, it is not with words, were they a yard long, that the baker, the + grocer, and those rascally landlords, can be paid, or that dresses and + shoes can be bought.” + </p> + <p> + She made no answer. + </p> + <p> + “Now, then,” he went on, “here you are without a penny. + Is it Maxence who will supply you with money? Poor fellow! + Where would he get it? He has hardly enough for himself. + Therefore, what are you going to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall work, sir.” + </p> + <p> + He got up, bowed low, and, resuming his seat, + </p> + <p> + “My sincere compliments,” he said. “There is but + one obstacle to that fine resolution: it is impossible for a woman + to live by her labor alone. Servants are about the only ones who + ever get their full to eat.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll be a servant, if necessary.” + </p> + <p> + For two or three seconds he remained taken aback, but, recovering himself, + </p> + <p> + “How different things would be,” he resumed in an insinuating + tone, “if you had not rejected me when I wanted to become your + husband! But you couldn’t bear the sight of me. And yet, ‘pon + my word, I was in love with you, oh, but for good and earnest! You + see, I am a judge of women; and I saw very well how you would look, + handsomely dressed and got up, leaning back in a fine carriage in the Bois—” + </p> + <p> + Stronger than her will, disgust rose to her lips. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, sir!” she said. + </p> + <p> + He mistook her meaning. + </p> + <p> + “You are regretting all that,” he continued. “I + see it. Formerly, eh, you would never have consented to receive me + thus, alone with you, which proves that girls should not be headstrong, my + dear child.” + </p> + <p> + He, Costeclar, he dared to call her, “My dear child.” + Indignant and insulted, “Oh!” she exclaimed. But he had + started, and kept on, + </p> + <p> + “Well, such as I was, I am still. To be sure, there probably + would be nothing further said about marriage between us; but, frankly, + what would you care if the conditions were the same,—a fine house, + carriages, horses, servants—” + </p> + <p> + Up to this moment, she had not fully understood him. Drawing herself + up to her fullest height, and pointing to the door, + </p> + <p> + “Leave this moment,” she ordered. + </p> + <p> + But he seemed in no wise disposed to do so: on the contrary, paler + than usual, his eyes bloodshot, his lips trembling, and smiling a strange + smile, he advanced towards Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + “What!” said he. “You are in trouble, I kindly + come to offer my services, and this is the way you receive me! You + prefer to work, do you? Go ahead then, my lovely one, prick your + pretty fingers, and redden your eyes. My time will come. + Fatigue and want, cold in the winter, hunger in all seasons, will speak to + your little heart of that kind Costeclar who adores you, like a big fool + that he is, who is a serious man and who has money,—much money.” + </p> + <p> + Beside herself, + </p> + <p> + “Wretch!” cried the girl, “leave, leave at once.” + </p> + <p> + “One moment,” said a strong voice. + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar looked around. + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars stood within the frame of the open door. + </p> + <p> + “Marius!” murmured Mlle. Gilberte, rooted to the spot by a + surprise hardly less immense than her joy. + </p> + <p> + To behold him thus suddenly, when she was wondering whether she would ever + see him again; to see him appear at the very moment when she found herself + alone, and exposed to the basest outrages, —it was one of those + fortunate occurrences which one can scarcely realize; and from the depth + of her soul rose something like a hymn of thanks. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, she was confounded at M. Costeclar’s attitude. + According to her, and from what she thought she knew, he should have been + petrified at the sight of M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + And he did not even seem to know him. He seemed shocked, annoyed at + being interrupted, slightly surprised, but in no wise moved or frightened. + Knitting his brows, + </p> + <p> + “What do you wish?” he inquired in his most impertinent tone. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars stepped forward. He was somewhat pale, but unnaturally + calm, cool, and collected. Bowing to Mlle. Gilberte, + </p> + <p> + “If I have thus ventured to enter your apartment, mademoiselle,” + he uttered gently, “it is because, as I was going by the door, I + thought I recognized this gentleman’s carriage.” + </p> + <p> + And, with his finger over his shoulder, he was pointing to M. Costeclar. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” he went on, “I had reason to be somewhat + astonished at this, after the positive orders I had given him never to set + his feet, not only in this house, but in this part of the city. I + wished to find out exactly. I came up: I heard—” + </p> + <p> + All this was said in a tone of such crushing contempt, that a slap on the + face would have been less cruel. All the blood in M. Costeclar’s + veins rushed to his face. + </p> + <p> + “You!” he interrupted insolently: “I do not know + you.” + </p> + <p> + Imperturbable, M. de Tregars was drawing off his gloves. + </p> + <p> + “Are you quite certain of that?” he replied. “Come, + you certainly know my old friend, M. de Villegre?” + </p> + <p> + An evident feeling of anxiety appeared on M. Costeclar’s countenance. + </p> + <p> + “I do,” he stammered. + </p> + <p> + “Did not M. Villegre call upon you before the war?” + </p> + <p> + “He did.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, ‘twas I who sent him to you; and the commands which he + delivered to you were mine.” + </p> + <p> + “Yours?” + </p> + <p> + “Mine. I am Marius de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + A nervous shudder shook M. Costeclar’s lean frame. Instinctively his + eye turned towards the door. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” Marius went on with the same gentleness, “we + are, you and I, old acquaintances. For you quite remember me now, + don’t you? I am the son of that poor Marquis de Tregars who came to + Paris, all the way from his old Brittany with his whole fortune, —two + millions.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” said the stock-broker: “I remember + perfectly well.” + </p> + <p> + “On the advice of certain clever people, the Marquis de Tregars + ventured into business. Poor old man! He was not very sharp. + He was firmly persuaded that he had already more than doubled his capital, + when his honorable partners demonstrated to him that he was ruined, and, + besides, compromised by certain signatures imprudently given.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte was listening, her mouth open, and wondering what Marius + was aiming at, and how he could remain so calm. + </p> + <p> + “That disaster,” he went on, “was at the time the + subject of an enormous number of very witty jokes. The people of the + bourse could hardly admire enough these bold financiers who had so deftly + relieved that candid marquis of his money. That was well done for + him; what was he meddling with? As to myself, to stop the + prosecutions with which my father was threatened, I gave up all I had. + I was quite young, and, as you see, quite what you call, I believe, + ‘green.’ I am no longer so now. Were such a thing + to happen to me to-day, I should want to know at once what had become of + the millions: I would feel all the pockets around me. I would + say, ‘Stop thief!’” + </p> + <p> + At every word, as it were, M. Costeclar’s uneasiness became more manifest. + </p> + <p> + “It was not I,” he said, “who received the benefit of M. + de Tregars’ fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Marius nodded approvingly. + </p> + <p> + “I know now,” he replied, “among whom the spoils were + divided. You, M. Costeclar, you took what you could get, timidly, + and according to your means. Sharks are always accompanied by small + fishes, to which they abandon the crumbs they disdain. You were but + a small fish then: you accommodated yourself with what your patrons, + the sharks, did not care about. But, when you tried to operate + alone, you were not shrewd enough: you left proofs of your excessive + appetite for other people’s money. Those proofs I have in my + possession.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar was now undergoing perfect torture. + </p> + <p> + “I am caught,” he said, “I know it: I told M. de + Villegre so.” + </p> + <p> + “Why are you here, then?” + </p> + <p> + “How did I know that the count had been sent by you?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a poor reason, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Besides, after what has occurred, after Favoral’s flight, I thought + myself relieved of my engagement.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you insist upon it, I am wrong, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “Not only you are wrong,” uttered Marius still perfectly cool, + “but you have committed a great imprudence. By failing to keep + your engagements, you have relieved me of mine. The pact is broken. + According to the agreement, I have the right, as I leave here, to go + straight to the police.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar’s dull eye was vacillating. + </p> + <p> + “I did not think I was doing wrong,” he muttered. + “Favoral was my friend.” + </p> + <p> + “And that’s the reason why you were coming to propose to Mlle. + Favoral to become your mistress? There she is, you thought, without + resources, literally without bread, without relatives, without friends to + protect her: this is the time to come forward. And thinking + you could be cowardly, vile, and infamous with impunity, you came.” + </p> + <p> + To be thus treated, he, the successful man, in presence of this young + girl, whom, a moment before, he was crushing with his impudent opulence, + no, M. Costeclar could not stand it. Losing completely his head, + </p> + <p> + “You should have let me know, then,” he exclaimed, “that + she was your mistress.” + </p> + <p> + Something like a flame passed over M. de Tregars’ face. His eyes + flashed. Rising in all the height of his wrath, which broke out + terrible at last, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you scoundrel!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar threw himself suddenly to one side. + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + But at one bound M. de Tregars had caught him. + </p> + <p> + “On your knees!” he cried. + </p> + <p> + And, seizing him by the collar with an iron grip, he lifted him clear off + the floor, and then threw him down violently upon both knees. + </p> + <p> + “Speak!” he commanded. “Repeat,—‘Mademoiselle’” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar had expected worse from M. de Tregars’ look. A horrible + fear had instantly crushed within him all idea of resistance. + </p> + <p> + “Mademoiselle,” he stuttered in a choking voice. “I + am the vilest of wretches,” continued Marius. M. Costeclar’s + livid face was oscillating like an inert object. + </p> + <p> + “I am,” he repeated, “the vilest of wretches.” + </p> + <p> + “And I beg of you—” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Gilberte was sick of the sight. + </p> + <p> + “Enough,” she interrupted, “enough!” + </p> + <p> + Feeling no longer upon his shoulders the heavy hand of M. de Tregars, the + stock-broker rose with difficulty to his feet. So livid was his + face, that one might have thought that his whole blood had turned to gall. + </p> + <p> + Dusting with the end of his glove the knees of his trousers, and restoring + as best he could the harmony of his toilet, which had been seriously + disturbed, + </p> + <p> + “Is it showing any courage,” he grumbled, “to abuse + one’s physical strength?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had already recovered his self-possession; and Mlle. + Gilberte thought she could read upon his face regret for his violence. + </p> + <p> + “Would it be better to make use of what you know?” M. + Costeclar joined his hands. + </p> + <p> + “You would not do that,” he said. “What good would + it do you to ruin me?” + </p> + <p> + “None,” answered M. de Tregars: “you are right. + But yourself?” + </p> + <p> + And, looking straight into M. Costeclar’s eyes,—“If you could + be of service to me,” he inquired, “would you be willing?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps. That I might recover possession of the papers you + have.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was thinking. + </p> + <p> + “After what has just taken place,” he said at last, “an + explanation is necessary between us. I will be at your house in an + hour. Wait for me.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar had become more pliable than his own lavender kid gloves: + in fact, alarmingly pliable. + </p> + <p> + “I am at your command, sir,” he replied to M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + And, bowing to the ground before Mlle. Gilberte, he left the parlor; and, + a few moments after, the street-door was heard to close upon him. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, what a wretch!” exclaimed the girl, dreadfully agitated. + “Marius, did you see what a look he gave us as he went out?” + </p> + <p> + “I saw it,” replied M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “That man hates us: he will not hesitate to commit a crime to + avenge the atrocious humiliation you have just inflicted upon him.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe it too.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte made a gesture of distress. + </p> + <p> + “Why did you treat him so harshly?” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “I had intended to remain calm, and it would have been politic to + have done so. But there are some insults which a man of heart cannot + endure. I do not regret what I have done.” + </p> + <p> + A long pause followed; and they remained standing, facing each other, + somewhat embarrassed. Mlle. Gilberte felt ashamed of the disorder of + her dress. M. de Tregars wondered how he could have been bold enough + to enter this house. + </p> + <p> + “You have heard of our misfortune,” said the young girl at + last. + </p> + <p> + “I read about it this morning, in the papers.” + </p> + <p> + “What! the papers know already?” + </p> + <p> + “Every thing.” + </p> + <p> + “And our name is printed in them?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + She covered her face with her two hands. + </p> + <p> + “What disgrace!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “At first,” went on M. de Tregars, “I could hardly + believe what I read. I hastened to come; and the first shopkeeper I + questioned confirmed only too well what I had seen in the papers. + From that moment, I had but one wish,—to see and speak to you. + When I reached the door, I recognized M. Costeclar’s equipage, and I had a + presentiment of the truth. I inquired from the concierge for your + mother or your brother, and heard that Maxence had gone out a few moments + before, and that Mme. Favoral had just left in a carriage with M. + Chapelain, the old lawyer. At the idea that you were alone with + Costeclar, I hesitated no longer. I ran up stairs, and, finding the + door open, had no occasion to ring.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte could hardly repress the sobs that rose to her throat. + </p> + <p> + “I never hoped to see you again,” she stammered; “and + you’ll find there on the table the letter I had just commenced for you + when M. Costeclar interrupted me.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars took it up quickly. Two lines only were written. + He read: “I release you from your engagement, Marius. + Henceforth you are free.” + </p> + <p> + He became whiter than his shirt. + </p> + <p> + “You wish to release me from my engagement!” he exclaimed. + “You—” + </p> + <p> + “Is it not my duty? Ah! if it had only been our fortune, I + should perhaps have rejoiced to lose it. I know your heart. + Poverty would have brought us nearer together. But it’s honor, + Marius, honor that is lost too! The name I bear is forever stained. + Whether my father is caught, or whether he escapes, he will be tried all + the same, condemned, and sentenced to a degrading penalty for embezzlement + and forgery.” + </p> + <p> + If M. de Tregars was allowing her to proceed thus, it was because he felt + all his thoughts whirling in his brain; because she looked so beautiful + thus, all in tears, and her hair loose; because there arose from her + person so subtle a charm, that words failed him to express the sensations + that agitated him. + </p> + <p> + “Can you,” she went on, “take for your wife the daughter + of a dishonored man? No, you cannot. Forgive me, then, for + having for a moment turned away your life from its object; forgive the + sorrow which I have caused you; leave me to the misery of my fate; forget + me!” + </p> + <p> + She was suffocating. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you have never loved me!” exclaimed Marius. + </p> + <p> + Raising her hands to heaven, + </p> + <p> + “Thou hearest him, great God!” she uttered, as if shocked by a + blasphemy. + </p> + <p> + “Would it be easy for you to forget me then? Were I to be + struck by misfortune, would you break our engagement, cease to love me?” + </p> + <p> + She ventured to take his hands, and, pressing them between hers, + </p> + <p> + “To cease loving you no longer depends on my will,” she + murmured with quivering lips. “Poor, abandoned of all, + disgraced, criminal even, I should love you still and always.” + </p> + <p> + With a passionate gesture, Marius threw his arm around her waist, and, + drawing her to his breast, covered her blonde hair with burning kisses. + </p> + <p> + “Well, ‘tis thus that I love you too!” he exclaimed, “and + with all my soul, exclusively, and for life! What do I care for your + parents? Do I know them? Your father—does he exist? + Your name —it is mine, the spotless name of the Tregars. You + are my wife! mine, mine!” + </p> + <p> + She was struggling feebly: an almost invincible stupor was creeping + over her. She felt her reason disturbed, her energy giving way, a + film before her eyes, the air failing to her heaving chest. + </p> + <p> + A great effort of her will restored her to consciousness. She + withdrew gently, and sank upon a chair, less strong against joy than she + had been against sorrow. + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me,” she stammered, “pardon me for having + doubted you!” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was not much less agitated than Mlle. Gilberte: but he + was a man; and the springs of his energy were of a superior temper. + In less than a minute he had fully recovered his self-possession and + imposed upon his features their accustomed expression. Drawing a + chair by the side of Mlle. Gilberte, + </p> + <p> + “Permit me, my friend,” he said, “to remind you that our + moments are numbered, and that there are many details which it is urgent + that I should know.” + </p> + <p> + “What details?” she asked, raising her head. + </p> + <p> + “About your father.” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with an air of profound surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Do you not know more about it than I do?” she replied, + “more than my mother, more than any of us? Did you not, whilst + following up the people who robbed your father, strike mine unwittingly? + And ‘tis I, wretch that I am, who inspired you to that fatal resolution; + and I have not the heart to regret it.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had blushed imperceptibly. “How did you know?” + he began. + </p> + <p> + “Was it not said that you were about to marry Mlle. de Thaller?” + </p> + <p> + He drew up suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “Never,” he exclaimed, “has this marriage existed, + except in the brain of M. de Thaller, and, more still, of the Baroness de + Thaller. That ridiculous idea occurred to her because she likes my + name, and would be delighted to see her daughter Marquise de Tregars. + She has never breathed a word of it to me; but she has spoken of it + everywhere, with just enough secrecy to give rise to a good piece of + parlor gossip. She went so far as to confide to several persons of + my acquaintance the amount of the dowry, thinking thus to encourage me. + As far as I could, I warned you against this false news through the Signor + Gismondo.” + </p> + <p> + “The Signor Gismondo relieved me of cruel anxieties,” she + replied; “but I had suspected the truth from the first. Was I + not the confidante of your hopes? Did I not know your projects? + I had taken for granted that all this talk about a marriage was but a + means to advance yourself in M. de Thaller’s intimacy without awaking his + suspicions.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was not the man to deny a true fact. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, indeed, I have not been wholly foreign to M. Favoral’s + disaster. At least I may have hastened it a few months, a few days + only, perhaps; for it was inevitable, fatal. Nevertheless, had I + suspected the real facts, I would have given up my designs —Gilberte, + I swear it—rather than risk injuring your father. There is no + undoing what is done; but the evil may, perhaps, be somewhat lessened.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte started. + </p> + <p> + “Great heavens!” she exclaimed, “do you, then, believe + my father innocent?” + </p> + <p> + Better than any one else, Mlle. Gilberte must have been convinced of her + father’s guilt. Had she not seen him humiliated and trembling before + M. de Thaller? Had she not heard him, as it were, acknowledge the + truth of the charge that was brought against him? But at twenty hope + never forsakes us, even in presence of facts. + </p> + <p> + And when she understood by M. de Tregars’ silence that she was mistaken, + </p> + <p> + “It’s madness,” she murmured, dropping her head: + </p> + <p> + “I feel it but too well. But the heart speaks louder than + reason. It is so cruel to be driven to despise one’s father!” + </p> + <p> + She wiped the tears which filled her eyes, and, in a firmer voice, + </p> + <p> + “What happened is so incomprehensible!” she went on. + “How can I help imagining some one of those mysteries which time + alone unravels. For twenty-four hours we have been losing ourselves + in idle conjectures, and, always and fatally, we come to this conclusion, + that my father must be the victim of some mysterious intrigue. + </p> + <p> + “M. Chapelain, whom a loss of a hundred and sixty thousand + francs has not made particularly indulgent, is of that opinion.” + </p> + <p> + “And so am I,” exclaimed Marius. + </p> + <p> + “You see, then—” + </p> + <p> + But without allowing her to proceed and taking gently her hand, + </p> + <p> + “Let me tell you all,” he interrupted, “and try with you + to find an issue to this horrible situation. Strange rumors are + afloat about M. Favoral. It is said that his austerity was but a + mask, his sordid economy a means of gaining confidence. It is + affirmed that in fact he abandoned himself to all sorts of disorders; that + he had, somewhere in Paris, an establishment, where he lavished the money + of which he was so sparing here. Is it so? The same thing is + said of all those in whose hands large fortunes have melted.” + </p> + <p> + The young girl had become quite red. + </p> + <p> + “I believe that is true,” she replied. “The + commissary of police stated so to us. He found among my father’s + papers receipted bills for a number of costly articles, which could only + have been intended for a woman.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars looked perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “And does any one know who this woman is?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Whoever she may be, I admit that she may have cost M. Favoral + considerable sums. But can she have cost him twelve millions?” + </p> + <p> + “Precisely the remark which M. Chapelain made.” + </p> + <p> + “And which every sensible man must also make. I know very well + that to conceal for years a considerable deficit is a costly operation, + requiring purchases and sales, the handling and shifting of funds, all of + which is ruinous in the extreme. But, on the other hand, M. Favoral + was making money, a great deal of money. He was rich: he was + supposed to be worth millions. Otherwise, Costeclar would never have + asked your hand.” + </p> + <p> + “M. Chapelain pretends that at a certain time my father had at + least fifty thousand francs a year.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s bewildering.” + </p> + <p> + For two or three minutes M. de Tregars remained silent, reviewing in his + mind every imaginable eventuality, and then, + </p> + <p> + “But no matter,” he resumed. “As soon as I heard + this morning the amount of the deficit, doubts came to my mind. And + it is for that reason, dear friend, that I was so anxious to see you and + speak to you. It would be necessary for me to know exactly what + occurred here last night.” + </p> + <p> + Rapidly, but without omitting a single useful detail, Mlle. Gilberte + narrated the scenes of the previous night—the sudden appearance of + M. de Thaller, the arrival of the commissary of police, M. Favoral’s + escape, thanks to Maxence’s presence of mind. Every one of her + father’s words had remained present to her mind; and it was almost + literally that she repeated his strange speeches to his indignant friends, + and his incoherent remarks at the moment of flight, when, whilst + acknowledging his fault, he said that he was not as guilty as they + thought; that, at any rate, he was not alone guilty; and that he had been + shamefully sacrificed. When she had finished, + </p> + <p> + “That’s exactly what I thought,” said M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “M. Favoral accepted a role in one of those terrible financial + dramas which ruin a thousand poor dupes to the benefit of two or three + clever rascals. Your father wanted to be rich: he needed money + to carry on his intrigues. He allowed himself to be tempted. + But whilst he believed himself one of the managers, called upon to divide + the receipts, he was but a scene-shifter with a stated salary. The + moment of this denouement having come, his so-called partners disappeared + through a trap-door with the cash, leaving him alone, as they say, to face + the music.” + </p> + <p> + “If that’s the case,” replied the young girl, “why + didn’t my father speak?” + </p> + <p> + “What was he to say?” + </p> + <p> + “Name his accomplices.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose he had no proofs of their complicity to offer? He + was the cashier of the Mutual Credit; and it is from his cash that the + millions are gone.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte’s conjectures had run far ahead of that sentence. + Looking straight at Marius, + </p> + <p> + “Then,” she said, “you believe, as M. Chapelain does, + that M. de Thaller—” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! M. Chapelain thinks—” + </p> + <p> + “That the manager of the Mutual Credit must have known the fact of + the frauds.” + </p> + <p> + “And that he had his share of them?” + </p> + <p> + “A larger share than his cashier, yes.” + </p> + <p> + A singular smile curled M. de Tregars’ lips. “Quite possible,” + he replied: “that’s quite possible.” + </p> + <p> + For the past few moments Mlle. Gilberte’s embarrassment was quite evident + in her look. At last, overcoming her hesitation, + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me,” said she, “I had imagined that M. de + Thaller was one of those men whom you wished to strike; and I had indulged + in the hope, that, whilst having justice done to your father, you were + thinking, perhaps, of avenging mine.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars stood up, as if moved by a spring. “Well, yes!” + he exclaimed. “Yes, you have correctly guessed. But how + can we obtain this double result? A single misstep at this moment + might lose all. Ah, if I only knew your father’s real situation; if + I could only see him and speak to him! In one word he might, + perhaps, place in my hands a sure weapon,—the weapon that I have as + yet been unable to find.” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately,” replied Mlle. Gilberte with a gesture of + despair, “we are without news of my father; and he even refused to + tell us where he expected to take refuge.” + </p> + <p> + “But he will write, perhaps. Besides, we might look for him, + quietly, so as not to excite the suspicions of the police; and if your + brother Maxence was only willing to help me—” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! I fear that Maxence may have other cares. He + insisted upon going out this morning, in spite of mother’s request to the + contrary.” + </p> + <p> + But Marius stopped her, and, in the tone of a man who knows much more than + he is willing to say,—“Do not calumniate Maxence,” he + said: “it is through him, perhaps, that we will receive the + help that we need.” + </p> + <p> + Eleven o’clock struck. Mlle. Gilberte started. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” she exclaimed, “mother will be home directly.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars might as well have waited for her. Henceforth he had + nothing to conceal. Yet, after duly deliberating with the young + girl, they decided that he should withdraw, and that he would send M. de + Villegre to declare his intentions. He then left, and, five minutes + later, Mme. Favoral and M. Chapelain appeared. + </p> + <p> + The ex-attorney was furious; and he threw the package of bank-notes upon + the table with a movement of rage. + </p> + <p> + “In order to return them to M. de Thaller,” he exclaimed, + “it was at least necessary to see him. But the gentleman is + invisible; keeps himself under lock and key, guarded by a perfect cloud of + servants in livery.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Mme. Favoral had approached her daughter. + </p> + <p> + “Your brother?” she asked in a whisper. + </p> + <p> + “He has not yet come home.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” sighed the poor mother: “at such a time + he forsakes us, and for whose sake?” + </p> + <h2> + XXV + </h2> + <p> + Mme. Favoral, usually so indulgent, was too severe this time; and it was + very unjustly that she accused her son. She forgot, and what mother + does not forget, that he was twenty-five years of age, that he was a man, + and that, outside of the family and of herself, he must have his own + interests and his passions, his affections and his duties. Because + he happened to leave the house for a few hours, Maxence was surely not + forsaking either his mother or his sister. It was not without a + severe internal struggle that he had made up his mind to go out, and, as + he was going down the steps, + </p> + <p> + “Poor mother,” he thought. “I am sure I am making + her very unhappy; but how can I help it?” + </p> + <p> + This was the first time that he had been in the street since his farther’s + disaster had been known; and the impression produced upon him was painful + in the extreme. Formerly, when he walked through the Rue St. Gilles, + that street where he was born, and where he used to play as a boy, every + one met him with a friendly nod or a familiar smile. True he was + then the son of a man rich and highly esteemed; whereas this morning not a + hand was extended, not a hat raised, on his passage. People + whispered among themselves, and pointed him out with looks of hatred and + irony. That was because he was now the son of the dishonest cashier + tracked by the police, of the man whose crime brought disaster upon so + many innocent parties. + </p> + <p> + Mortified and ashamed, Maxence was hurrying on, his head down, his cheek + burning, his throat parched, when, in front of a wine-shop, + </p> + <p> + “Halloo!” said a man; “that’s the son. What cheek!” + </p> + <p> + And farther on, in front of the grocer’s. + </p> + <p> + “I tell you what,” said a woman in the midst of a group, + “they still have more than we have.” + </p> + <p> + Then, for the first time, he understood with what crushing weight his + father’s crime would weigh upon his whole life; and, whilst going up the + Rue Turenne: + </p> + <p> + “It’s all over,” he thought: “I can never get over + it.” And he was thinking of changing his name, of emigrating + to America, and hiding himself in the deserts of the Far West, when, a + little farther on, he noticed a group of some thirty persons in front of a + newspaper-stand. The vender, a fat little man with a red face and an + impudent look, was crying in a hoarse voice, + </p> + <p> + “Here are the morning papers! The last editions! All + about the robbery of twelve millions by a poor cashier. Buy the + morning papers!” + </p> + <p> + And, to stimulate the sale of his wares, he added all sorts of jokes of + his own invention, saying that the thief belonged to the neighborhood; + that it was quite flattering, etc. + </p> + <p> + The crowd laughed; and he went on, + </p> + <p> + “The cashier Favoral’s robbery! twelve millions! Buy the + paper, and see how it’s done.” + </p> + <p> + And so the scandal was public, irreparable. Maxence was listening a + few steps off. He felt like going; but an imperative feeling, + stronger than his will, made him anxious to see what the papers said. + </p> + <p> + Suddenly he made up his mind, and, stepping up briskly, he threw down + three sous, seized a paper, and ran as if they had all known him. + </p> + <p> + “Not very polite, the gentleman,” remarked two idlers whom he + had pushed a little roughly. + </p> + <p> + Quick as he had been, a shopkeeper of the Rue Turenne had had time to + recognize him. + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s the cashier’s son!” he exclaimed. “Is + it possible?” + </p> + <p> + “Why don’t they arrest him?” + </p> + <p> + Half a dozen curious fellows, more eager than the rest, ran after him to + try and see his face. But he was already far off. + </p> + <p> + Leaning against a gas-lamp on the Boulevard, he unfolded the paper he had + just bought. He had no trouble looking for the article. In the + middle of the first page, in the most prominent position, he read in large + letters, + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “At the moment of going to press, the greatest agitation prevails + among the stock-brokers and operators at the bourse generally, owing to + the news that one of our great banking establishments has just been the + victim of a theft of unusual magnitude. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “At about five o’clock in the afternoon, the manager of the Mutual + Credit Society, having need of some documents, went to look for them in + the office of the head cashier, who was then absent. A memorandum + forgotten on the table excited his suspicions. Sending at once for + a locksmith, he had all the drawers broken open, and soon acquired the + irrefutable evidence that the Mutual Credit had been defrauded of sums, + which, as far as now known, amount to upwards of twelve millions. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “At once the police was notified; and M. Brosse, commissary of + police, duly provided with a warrant, called at the guilty cashier’s + house. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “That cashier, named Favoral,—we do not hesitate to name + him, since his name has already been made public,—had just sat + down to dinner with some friends. Warned, no one knows how, he + succeeded in escaping through a window into the yard of the adjoining + house, and up to this hour has succeeded in eluding all search. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “It seems that these embezzlements had been going on for years, + but had been skillfully concealed by false entries. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “M. Favoral had managed to secure the esteem of all who knew + him. He led at home a more than modest existence. But that + was only, as it were, his official life. Elsewhere, and under + another name, he indulged in the most reckless expenses for the benefit + of a woman with whom he was madly in love. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Who this woman is, is not yet exactly known. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Some mention a very fascinating young actress, who performs at a + theatre not a hundred miles from the Rue Vivienne; others, a lady of the + financial high life, whose equipages, diamonds, and dresses are justly + famed. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “We might easily, in this respect, give particulars which would + astonish many people; for we know all; but, at the risk of seeming less + well informed than some others of our morning contemporaries, we will + observe a silence which our readers will surely appreciate. We do + not wish to add, by a premature indiscretion, any thing to the grief of + a family already so cruelly stricken; for M. Favoral leaves behind him + in the deepest sorrow a wife and two children,—a son of + twenty-five, employed in a railroad office, and a daughter of twenty, + remarkably handsome, who, a few months ago, came very near marrying M. + C. ——. + </p> + </blockquote> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Next—” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Tears of rage obscured Maxence’s sight whilst reading the last few lines + of this terrible article. To find himself thus held up to public + curiosity, though innocent, was more than he could bear. + </p> + <p> + And yet he was, perhaps, still more surprised than indignant. He had + just learned in that paper more than his father’s most intimate friends + knew, more than he knew himself. Where had it got its information? + And what could be these other details which the writer pretended to know, + but did not wish to publish as yet? Maxence felt like running to the + office of the paper, fancying that they could tell him there exactly where + and under what name M. Favoral led that existence of pleasure and luxury, + and who the woman was to whom the article alluded. + </p> + <p> + But in the mean time he had reached his hotel,—the Hotel des Folies. + After a moment of hesitation, + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” he thought, “I have the whole day to call at the + office of the paper.” + </p> + <p> + And he started in the corridor of the hotel, a corridor that was so long, + so dark, and so narrow, that it gave an idea of the shaft of a mine, and + that it was prudent, before entering it, to make sure that no one was + coming in the opposite direction. It was from the neighboring + theatre, des Folies-Nouvelles (now the Theatre Dejazet), that the hotel + had taken its name. + </p> + <p> + It consists of the rear building of a large old house, and has no frontage + on the Boulevard, where nothing betrays its existence, except a lantern + hung over a low and narrow door, between a Café and a + confectionery-shop. It is one of those hotels, as there are a good + many in Paris, somewhat mysterious and suspicious, ill-kept, and whose + profits remain a mystery for simple-minded folks. Who occupy the + apartments of the first and second story? No one knows. Never + have the most curious of the neighbors discovered the face of a tenant. + And yet they are occupied; for often, in the afternoon, a curtain is drawn + aside, and a shadow is seen to move. In the evening, lights are + noticed within; and sometimes the sound of a cracked old piano is heard. + </p> + <p> + Above the second story, the mystery ceases. All the upper rooms, the + price of which is relatively modest, are occupied by tenants who may be + seen and heard,—clerks like Maxence, shop-girls from the + neighborhood, a few restaurant-waiters, and sometimes some poor devil of + an actor or chorus-singer from the Theatre Dejazet, the Circus, or the + Chateau d’Eau. One of the great advantages of the Hotel des Folies—and + Mme. Fortin, the landlady, never failed to point it out to the new + tenants, an inestimable advantage, she declared—was a back entrance + on the Rue Beranger. + </p> + <p> + “And everybody knows,” she concluded, “that there is no + chance of being caught, when one has the good luck of living in a house + that has two outlets.” + </p> + <p> + When Maxence entered the office, a small, dark, and dirty room, the + proprietors, M. and Mme. Fortin were just finishing their breakfast with + an immense bowl of coffee of doubtful color, of which an enormous red cat + was taking a share. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, here is M. Favoral!” they exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + There was no mistaking their tone. They knew the catastrophe; and + the newspaper lying on the table showed how they had heard it. + </p> + <p> + “Some one called to see you last night,” said Mme. Fortin, a + large fat woman, whose nose was always besmeared with snuff, and whose + honeyed voice made a marked contrast with her bird-of-prey look. + </p> + <p> + “Who?” + </p> + <p> + “A gentleman of about fifty, tall and thin, with a long overcoat, + coming down to his heels.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence imagined, from this description, that he recognized his own + father. And yet it seemed impossible, after what had happened, that + he should dare to show himself on the Boulevard du Temple, where everybody + knew him, within a step of the Café Turc, of which he was one of + the oldest customers. + </p> + <p> + “At what o’clock was he here?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “I really can’t tell,” answered the landlady. “I + was half asleep at the time; but Fortin can tell us.” + </p> + <p> + M. Fortin, who looked about twenty years younger than his wife, was one of + those small men, blonde, with scanty beard, a suspicious glance, and + uneasy smile, such as the Madame Fortins know how to find, Heaven knows + where. + </p> + <p> + “The confectioner had just put up his shutters,” he replied: + “consequently, it must have been between eleven and a quarter-past + eleven.” + </p> + <p> + “And didn’t he leave any word?” said Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, except that he was very sorry not to find you in. + And, in fact, he did look quite annoyed. We asked him to leave his + name; but he said it wasn’t worth while, and that he would call again.” + </p> + <p> + At the glance which the landlady was throwing toward him from the corner + of her eyes, Maxence understood that she had on the subject of that late + visitor the same suspicion as himself. + </p> + <p> + And, as if she had intended to make it more apparent still, + </p> + <p> + “I ought, perhaps, to have given him your key,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “And why so, pray?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I don’t know, an idea of mine, that’s all. Besides, + Mlle. Lucienne can probably tell you more about it; for she was there when + the gentleman came, and I even think that they exchanged a few words in + the yard.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence, seeing that they were only seeking a pretext to question him, + took his key, and inquired, + </p> + <p> + “Is—Mlle. Lucienne at home?” + </p> + <p> + “Can’t tell. She has been going and coming all the morning, + and I don’t know whether she finally staid in or out. One thing is + sure, she waited for you last night until after twelve; and she didn’t + like it much, I can tell you.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence started up the steep stairs; and, as he reached the upper stories, + a woman’s voice, fresh and beautifully toned, reached his ears more and + more distinctly. + </p> + <p> + She was singing a popular tune,—one of those songs which are monthly + put in circulation by the singing Cafés— + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “To hope! O charming word, <br /> Which, during all life, + <br /> Husband and children and wife <br /> Repeat in common accord! + <br /> When the moment of success <br /> From us ever further slips, <br /> + ‘Tis Hope from its rosy lips <br /> Whispers, To-morrow you will bless. + <br /> ‘Tis very nice to run, <br /> But to have is better fun.” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + “She is in,” murmured Maxence, breathing more freely. + </p> + <p> + Reaching the fourth story, he stopped before the door which faced the + stairs, and knocked lightly. + </p> + <p> + At once, the voice, which had just commenced another verse stopped short, + and inquired, “Who’s there?” + </p> + <p> + “I, Maxence!” + </p> + <p> + “At this hour!” replied the voice with an ironical laugh. + “That’s lucky. You have probably forgotten that we were to go + to the theatre last night, and start for St. Germain at seven o’clock this + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you know then?” Maxence began, as soon as he + could put in a word. + </p> + <p> + “I know that you did not come home last night.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite true. But when I have told you—” + </p> + <p> + “What? the lie you have imagined? Save yourself the trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Lucienne, I beg of you, open the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible, I am dressing. Go to your own room: as soon + as I am dressed, I’ll join you.” + </p> + <p> + And, to cut short all these explanations, she took up her song again: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Hope, I’ve waited but too long <br /> For thy manna divine! + <br /> I’ve drunk enough of thy wine, <br /> And I know thy siren song: + <br /> Waiting for a lucky turn, <br /> I have wasted my best days: + <br /> Take up thy magic-lantern <br /> And elsewhere display its rays. + <br /> ‘Tis very nice to run, <br /> But to have is better fun!” + </p> + </blockquote> + <h2> + XXVI + </h2> + <p> + It was on the opposite side of the landing that what Mme. Fortin pompously + called “Maxence’s apartment” was situated. + </p> + <p> + It consisted of a sort of antechamber, almost as large as a handkerchief + (decorated by the Fortins with the name of dining-room), a bedroom, and a + closet called a dressing-room in the lease. Nothing could be more + gloomy than this lodging, in which the ragged paper and soiled paint + retained the traces of all the wanderers who had occupied it since the + opening of the Hotel des Folies. The dislocated ceiling was scaling + off in large pieces; the floor seemed affected with the dry-rot; and the + doors and windows were so much warped and sprung, that it required an + effort to close them. The furniture was on a par with the rest. + </p> + <p> + “How everything does wear out!” sighed Mme. Fortin. + “It isn’t ten years since I bought that furniture.” + </p> + <p> + In point of fact it was over fifteen, and even then she had bought it + secondhanded, and almost unfit for use. The curtains retained but a + vague shade of their original color. The veneer was almost entirely + off the bedstead. Not a single lock was in order, whether in the + bureau or the secretary. The rug had become a nameless rag; and the + broken springs of the sofa, cutting through the threadbare stuff, stood up + threateningly like knife-blades. + </p> + <p> + The most sumptuous object was an enormous China stove, which occupied + almost one-half of the hall-dining-room. It could not be used to + make a fire; for it had no pipe. Nevertheless, Mme. Fortin refused + obstinately to take it out, under the pretext that it gave such a + comfortable appearance to the apartment. All this elegance cost + Maxence forty-five francs a month, and five francs for the service; the + whole payable in advance from the 1st to the 3d of the month. If, on + the 4th, a tenant came in without money, Mme. Fortin squarely refused him + his key, and invited him to seek shelter elsewhere. + </p> + <p> + “I have been caught too often,” she replied to those who tried + to obtain twenty-four hours’ grace from her. “I wouldn’t trust + my own father till the 5th, he who was a superior officer in Napoleon’s + armies, and the very soul of honor.” + </p> + <p> + It was chance alone which had brought Maxence, after the Commune, to the + Hotel des Folies; and he had not been there a week, before he had fully + made up his mind not to wear out Mme. Fortin’s furniture very long. + He had even already found another and more suitable lodging, when, about a + year ago, a certain meeting on the stairs had modified all his views, and + lent a charm to his apartment which he did not suspect. + </p> + <p> + As he was going out one morning to his office, he met on the very landing + a rather tall and very dark girl, who had just come running up stairs. + She passed before him like a flash, opened the opposite door, and + disappeared. But, rapid as the apparition had been, it had left in + Maxence’s mind one of those impressions which are never obliterated. + He could not think of any thing else the whole day; and after + business-hours, instead of going to dine in Rue St. Gilles, as usual, he + sent a despatch to his mother to tell her not to wait for him, and bravely + went home. + </p> + <p> + But it was in vain, that, during the whole evening, he kept watch behind + his door, left slyly ajar: he did not get a glimpse of the neighbor. + Neither did she show herself on the next or the three following days; and + Maxence was beginning to despair, when at last, on Sunday, as he was going + down stairs, he met her again face to face. He had thought her quite + pretty at the first glance: this time he was dazzled to that extent, + that he remained for over a minute, standing like a statue against the + wall. + </p> + <p> + And certainly it was not her dress that helped setting off her beauty. + She wore a poor dress of black merino, a narrow collar, and plain cuffs, + and a bonnet of the utmost simplicity. She had nevertheless an air + of incomparable dignity, a grace that charmed, and yet inspired respect, + and the carriage of a queen. This was on the 30th of July. As + he was handing in his key, before leaving, + </p> + <p> + “My apartment suits me well enough,” said Maxence to Mme. + Fortin: “I shall keep it. And here are fifty francs for + the month of August.” + </p> + <p> + And, while the landlady was making out a receipt, + </p> + <p> + “You never told me,” he began with his most indifferent look, + “that I had a neighbor.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Fortin straightened herself up like an old warhorse that hears the + sound of the bugle. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes!” she said,—“Mademoiselle Lucienne.” + </p> + <p> + “Lucienne,” repeated Maxence: “that’s a pretty + name.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen her?” + </p> + <p> + “I have just seen her. She’s rather good looking.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy landlady jumped on her chair. “Rather good looking!” + she interrupted. “You must be hard to please, my dear sir; for + I, who am a judge, I affirm that you might hunt Paris over for four whole + days without finding such a handsome girl. Rather good looking! + A girl who has hair that comes down to her knees, a dazzling complexion, + eyes as big as this, and teeth whiter than that cat’s. All right, my + friend. You’ll wear out more than one pair of boots running after + women before you catch one like her.” + </p> + <p> + That was exactly Maxence’s opinion; and yet with his coldest look, + </p> + <p> + “Has she been long your tenant, dear Mme. Fortin?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “A little over a year. She was here during the siege; and just + then, as she could not pay her rent, I was, of course, going to send her + off; but she went straight to the commissary of police, who came here, and + forbade me to turn out either her or anybody else. As if people were + not masters in their own house!” + </p> + <p> + “That was perfectly absurd!” objected Maxence, who was + determined to gain the good graces of the landlady. + </p> + <p> + “Never heard of such a thing!” she went on. “Compel + you to lodge people free! Why not feed them too? In short, she + remained so long, that, after the Commune, she owed me a hundred and + eighty francs. Then she said, that, if I would let her stay, she + would pay me each month in advance, besides the rent, ten francs on the + old account. I agreed, and she has already paid up twenty francs.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor girl!” said Maxence. + </p> + <p> + But Mme. Fortin shrugged her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Really,” she replied, “I don’t pity her much; for, if + she only wanted, in forty-eight hours I should be paid, and she would have + something else on her back besides that old black rag. I tell her + every day, ‘In these days, my child, there is but one reliable + friend, which is better than all others, and which must be taken as it + comes, without making any faces if it is a little dirty: that’s + money.’ But all my preaching goes for nothing. I might + as well sing.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence was listening with intense delight. + </p> + <p> + “In short, what does she do?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “That’s more than I know,” replied Mme. Fortin. “The + young lady has not much to say. All I know is, that she leaves every + morning bright and early, and rarely gets home before eleven. On + Sunday she stays home, reading; and sometimes, in the evening, she goes + out, always alone, to some theatre or ball. Ah! she is an odd one, I + tell you!” + </p> + <p> + A lodger who came in interrupted the landlady; and Maxence walked off + dreaming how he could manage to make the acquaintance of his pretty and + eccentric neighbor. + </p> + <p> + Because he had once spent some hundreds of napoleons in the company of + young ladies with yellow chignons, Maxence fancied himself a man of + experience, and had but little faith in the virtue of a girl of twenty, + living alone in a hotel, and left sole mistress of her own fancy. He + began to watch for every occasion of meeting her; and, towards the last of + the month, he had got so far as to bow to her, and to inquire after her + health. + </p> + <p> + But, the first time he ventured to make love to her, she looked at him + head to foot, and turned her back upon him with so much contempt, that he + remained, his mouth wide open, perfectly stupefied. + </p> + <p> + “I am losing my time like a fool,” he thought. + </p> + <p> + Great, then, was his surprise, when the following week, on a fine + afternoon, he saw Mlle. Lucienne leave her room, no longer clad in her + eternal black dress, but wearing a brilliant and extremely rich toilet. + With a beating heart he followed her. + </p> + <p> + In front of the Hotel des Folies stood a handsome carriage and horses. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Mlle. Lucienne appeared, a footman opened respectfully the + carriage-door. She went in; and the horses started at a full trot. + </p> + <p> + Maxence watched the carriage disappear in the distance, like a child who + sees the bird fly upon which he hoped to lay hands. + </p> + <p> + “Gone,” he muttered, “gone!” + </p> + <p> + But, when he turned around, he found himself face to face with the + Fortins, man and wife; who were laughing a sinister laugh. + </p> + <p> + “What did I tell you?” exclaimed Mme. Fortin. “There + she is, started at last. Get up, horse! She’ll do well, the + child.” + </p> + <p> + The magnificent equipage and elegant dress had already produced quite an + effect among the neighbors. The customers sitting in front of the + Café were laughing among themselves. The confectioner and his + wife were casting indignant glances at the proprietors of the Hotel des + Folies. + </p> + <p> + “You see, M. Favoral,” replied Mme. Fortin, “such a girl + as that was not made for our neighborhood. You must make up your + mind to it; you won’t see much more of her on the Boulevard du Temple.” + </p> + <p> + Without saying a word, Maxence ran to his room, the hot tears streaming + from his eyes. He felt ashamed of himself; for, after all, what was + this girl to him? + </p> + <p> + “She is gone!” he repeated to himself. “Well, + good-by, let her go!” + </p> + <p> + But, despite all his efforts at philosophy, he felt an immense sadness + invading his heart: ill-defined regrets and spasms of anger agitated + him. He was thinking what a fool he had been to believe in the grand + airs of the young lady, and that, if he had had dresses and horses to give + her, she might not have received him so harshly. At last he made up + his mind to think no more of her,—one of those fine resolutions + which are always taken, and never kept; and in the evening he left his + room to go and dine in the Rue St. Gilles. + </p> + <p> + But, as was often his custom, he stopped at the Café next door, and + called for a drink. He was mixing his absinthe when he saw the + carriage that had carried off Mlle. Lucienne in the morning returning at a + rapid gait, and stopping short in front of the hotel. Mlle. Lucienne + got out slowly, crossed the sidewalk, and entered the narrow corridor. + Almost immediately, the carriage turned around, and drove off. + </p> + <p> + “What does it mean?” thought Maxence, who was actually + forgetting to swallow his absinthe. + </p> + <p> + He was losing himself in absurd conjectures, when, some fifteen minutes + later, he saw the girl coming out again. Already she had taken off + her elegant clothes, and resumed her cheap black dress. She had a + basket on her arm, and was going towards the Rue Chariot. Without + further reflections, Maxence rose suddenly, and started to follow her, + being very careful that she should not see him. After walking for + five or six minutes, she entered a shop, half-eating house, and half + wine-shop, in the window of which a large sign could be read: + “Ordinary at all hours for forty centimes. Hard boiled eggs, + and salad of the season.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence, having crept up as close as he could, saw Mlle. Lucienne take a + tin box out of her basket, and have what is called an “ordinaire” + poured into it; that is, half a pint of soup, a piece of beef as large as + the fist, and a few vegetables. She then had a small bottle + half-filled with wine, paid, and walked out with that same look of grave + dignity which she always wore. + </p> + <p> + “Funny dinner,” murmured Maxence, “for a woman who was + spreading herself just now in a ten-thousand-franc carriage.” + </p> + <p> + From that moment she became the sole and only object of his thoughts. + A passion, which he no longer attempted to resist, was penetrating like a + subtle poison to the innermost depths of his being. He thought + himself happy, when, after watching for hours, he caught a glimpse of this + singular creature, who, after that extraordinary expedition, seemed to + have resumed her usual mode of life. Mme. Fortin was dumfounded. + </p> + <p> + “She has been too exacting,” she said to Maxence, “and + the thing has fallen through.” + </p> + <p> + He made no answer. He felt a perfect horror for the honorable + landlady’s insinuations; and yet he never ceased to repeat to himself that + he must be a great simpleton to have faith for a moment in that young + lady’s virtue. What would he not have given to be able to question + her? But he dared not. Often he would gather up his courage, + and wait for her on the stairs; but, as soon as she fixed upon him her + great black eye, all the phrases he had prepared took flight from his + brain, his tongue clove to his mouth, and he could barely succeed in + stammering out a timid, + </p> + <p> + “Good-morning, mademoiselle.” + </p> + <p> + He felt so angry with himself, that he was almost on the point of leaving + the Hotel des Folies, when one evening: + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said Mme. Fortin to him, “all is made up again, + it seems. The beautiful carriage called again to-day.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence could have beaten her. + </p> + <p> + “What good would it do you,” he replied, “if Lucienne + were to turn out badly?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s always a pleasure,” she grumbled, “to have one + more woman to torment the men. Those are the girls, you see, who + avenge us poor honest women!” + </p> + <p> + The sequel seemed at first to justify her worst previsions. Three + times during that week, Mlle. Lucienne rode out in grand style; but as she + always returned, and always resumed her eternal black woolen dress, + </p> + <p> + “I can’t make head or tail of it,” thought Maxence. + “But never mind, I’ll clear the matter up yet.” + </p> + <p> + He applied, and obtained leave of absence; and from the very next day he + took up a position behind the window of the adjoining Café. + On the first day he lost his time; but on the second day, at about three + o’clock, the famous equipage made its appearance; and, a few moments + later, Mlle. Lucienne took a seat in it. Her toilet was richer, and + more showy still, than the first time. Maxence jumped into a cab. + </p> + <p> + “You see that carriage,” he said to the coachman, “Wherever + it goes, you must follow it. I give ten francs extra pay.” + </p> + <p> + “All right!” replied the driver, whipping up his horses. + </p> + <p> + And much need he had, too, of whipping them; for the carriage that carried + off Mlle. Lucienne started at full trot down the Boulevards, to the + Madeleine, then along the Rue Royale, and through the Place de la + Concorde, to the Avenue des Champs-Elysees, where the horses were brought + down to a walk. It was the end of September, and one of those lovely + autumnal days which are a last smile of the blue sky and the last caress + of the sun. + </p> + <p> + There were races in the Bois de Boulogne; and the equipages were five and + six abreast on the avenue. The side-alleys were crowded with idlers. + Maxence, from the inside of his cab, never lost sight of Mlle. Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + She was evidently creating a sensation. The men stopped to look at + her with gaping admiration: the women leaned out of their carriages + to see her better. + </p> + <p> + “Where can she be going?” Maxence wondered. + </p> + <p> + She was going to the Bois; and soon her carriage joined the interminable + line of equipages which were following the grand drive at a walk. It + became easier now to follow on foot. Maxence sent off his cab to + wait for him at a particular spot, and took the pedestrians’ road, that + follows the edge of the lakes. He had not gone fifty steps, however, + before he heard some one call him. He turned around, and, within two + lengths of his cane, saw M. Saint Pavin and M. Costeclar. Maxence + hardly knew M. Saint Pavin, whom he had only seen two or three times in + the Rue St. Gilles, and execrated M. Costeclar. Still he advanced + towards them. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne’s carriage was now caught in the file; and he was sure of + joining it whenever he thought proper. + </p> + <p> + “It is a miracle to see you here, my dear Maxence!” exclaimed + M. Costeclar, loud enough to attract the attention of several persons. + </p> + <p> + To occupy the attention of others, anyhow and at any cost, was M. + Costeclar’s leading object in life. That was evident from the style + of his dress, the shape of his hat, the bright stripes of his shirt, his + ridiculous shirt-collar, his cuffs, his boots, his gloves, his cane, every + thing, in fact. + </p> + <p> + “If you see us on foot,” he added, “it is because we + wanted to walk a little. The doctor’s prescription, my dear. + My carriage is yonder, behind those trees. Do you recognize my + dapple-grays?” And he extended his cane in that direction, as + if he were addressing himself, not to Maxence alone, but to all those who + were passing by. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, very well! everybody knows you have a carriage,” + interrupted M. Saint Pavin. + </p> + <p> + The editor of “The Financial Pilot” was the living contrast of + his companion. More slovenly still than M. Costeclar was careful of + his dress, he exhibited cynically a loose cravat rolled over a shirt worn + two or three days, a coat white with lint and plush, muddy boots, though + it had not rained for a week, and large red hands, surprisingly filthy. + </p> + <p> + He was but the more proud; and he wore, cocked up to one side, a hat that + had not known a brush since the day it had left the hatter’s. + </p> + <p> + “That fellow Costeclar,” he went on, “he won’t believe + that there are in France a number of people who live and die without ever + having owned a horse or a coupe; which is a fact, nevertheless. + Those fellows who were born with fifty or sixty thousand francs’ income in + their baby-clothes are all alike.” + </p> + <p> + The unpleasant intention was evident; but M. Costeclar was not the man to + get angry for such a trifle. + </p> + <p> + “You are in bad humor to-day, old fellow,” he said. The + editor of “The Financial Pilot” made a threatening gesture. + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes,” he answered, “I am in bad humor, like a man + who for ten years past has been beating the drum in front of your d—d + financial shops, and who does not pay expenses. Yes, for ten years I + have shouted myself hoarse for your benefit: ‘Walk in, ladies + and gentlemen, and, for every twenty-cent-piece you deposit with us, we + will return you a five-franc-piece. Walk in, follow the crowd, step + up to the office: this is the time.’ They go in. + You receive mountains of twenty-cent-pieces: you never return + anything, neither a five-franc-piece, nor even a centime. The trick + is done, the public is sold. You drive your own carriage; you + suspend diamonds to your mistress’ ears; and I, the organizer of success, + whose puffs open the tightest closed pockets, and start up the old louis + from the bottom of the old woolen stocking,—I am driven to have my + boots half-soled. You stint me my existence; you kick as soon as I + ask you to pay for the big drums bursted in your behalf.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke so loud, that three or four idlers had stopped. Without + being very shrewd, Maxence understood readily that he had happened in the + midst of an acrimonious discussion. Closely pressed, and desirous of + gaining time, M. Costeclar had called him in the hopes of effecting a + diversion. + </p> + <p> + Bowing, therefore, politely, + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, gentlemen,” he said: “I fear I have + interrupted you.” + </p> + <p> + But M. Costeclar detained him. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t go,” he declared; “you must come down and take a + glass of Madeira with us, down at the Cascade.” + </p> + <p> + And, turning to the editor of “The Pilot”: + </p> + <p> + “Come, now, shut up,” he said: “you shall have + what you want.” + </p> + <p> + “Really?” + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word.” + </p> + <p> + “I’d rather have two or three lines in black and white.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll give them to you to-night.” + </p> + <p> + “All right, then! Forward the big guns! Look out for + next Sunday’s number!” + </p> + <p> + Peace being made, the gentlemen continued their walk in the most friendly + manner, M. Costeclar pointing out to Maxence all the celebrities who were + passing by them in their carriages. + </p> + <p> + He had just designated to his attention Mme. and Mlle. de Thaller, + accompanied by two gigantic footmen, when, suddenly interrupting himself, + and rising on tiptoe, + </p> + <p> + “Sacre bleu!” he exclaimed: “what a handsome + woman!” + </p> + <p> + Without too much affectation, Maxence fell back a step or two. He + felt himself blushing to his very ears, and trembled lest his sudden + emotion were noticed, and he were questioned; for it was Mlle. Lucienne + who thus excited M. Costeclar’s noisy enthusiasm. Once already she + had been around the lake; and she was continuing her circular drive. + </p> + <p> + “Positively,” approved the editor of “The Financial + Pilot,” “she is somewhat better than the rest of those ladies + we have just seen going by.” + </p> + <p> + M. Costeclar was on the point of pulling out what little hair he had left. + </p> + <p> + “And I don’t know her!” he went on. “A lovely + woman rides in the Bois, and I don’t know who she is! That is + ridiculous and prodigious! Who can post us?” + </p> + <p> + A little ways off stood a group of gentlemen, who had also just left their + carriages, and were looking on this interminable procession of equipages + and this amazing display of toilets. + </p> + <p> + “They are friends of mine,” said M. Costeclar: “let + us join them.” + </p> + <p> + They did so; and, after the usual greetings, + </p> + <p> + “Who is that?” inquired M. Costeclar,—“that dark + person, whose carriage follows Mme. de Thaller’s?” + </p> + <p> + An old young man, with scanty hair, dyed beard, and a most impudent smile, + answered him, + </p> + <p> + “That’s just what we are trying to find out. None of us have + ever seen her.” + </p> + <p> + “I must and shall find out,” interrupted M. Costeclar. + “I have a very intelligent servant.” + </p> + <p> + Already he was starting in the direction of the spot where his carriage + was waiting for him. The old beau stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t bother yourself, my dear friend,” he said. + “I have also a servant who is no fool; and he has had orders for + over fifteen minutes.” + </p> + <p> + The others burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Distanced, Costeclar!” exclaimed M. Saint Pavin, who, + notwithstanding his slovenly dress and cynic manners, seemed perfectly + well received. + </p> + <p> + No one was now paying any attention to Maxence; and he slipped off without + the slightest care as to what M. Costeclar might think. Reaching the + spot where his cab awaited him, + </p> + <p> + “Which way, boss?” inquired the driver. Maxence + hesitated. What better had he to do than to go home? And yet . + . . + </p> + <p> + “We’ll wait for that same carriage,” he answered; “and + we’ll follow it on the return.” + </p> + <p> + But he learned nothing further. Mlle. Lucienne drove straight to the + Boulevard du Temple, and, as before, immediately resumed her eternal black + dress; and Maxence saw her go to the little restaurant for her modest + dinner. + </p> + <p> + But he saw something else too. + </p> + <p> + Almost on the heels of the girl, a servant in livery entered the hotel + corridor, and only went off after remaining a full quarter of an hour in + busy conference with Mme. Fortin. + </p> + <p> + “It’s all over,” thought the poor fellow. “Lucienne + will not be much longer my neighbor.” + </p> + <p> + He was mistaken. A month went by without bringing about any change. + As in the past, she went out early, came home late, and on Sundays + remained alone all day in her room. Once or twice a week, when the + weather was fine, the carriage came for her at about three o’clock, and + brought her home at nightfall. Maxence had exhausted all + conjectures, when one evening, it was the 31st of October, as he was + coming in to go to bed, he heard a loud sound of voices in the office of + the hotel. Led by an instinctive curiosity, he approached on tiptoe, + so as to see and hear every thing. The Fortins and Mlle. Lucienne + were having a great discussion. + </p> + <p> + “That’s all nonsense,” shrieked the worthy landlady; “and + I mean to be paid.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne was quite calm. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” she replied: “don’t I pay you? Here + are forty francs, —thirty in advance for my room, and ten on the old + account.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want your ten francs!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah,—the hundred and fifty francs which you owe me still.” + </p> + <p> + The girl shrugged her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “You forget our agreement,” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + “Our agreement?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. After the Commune, it was understood that I would give + you ten francs a month on the old account; as long as I give them to you, + you have nothing to ask.” + </p> + <p> + Crimson with rage, Mme. Fortin had risen from her seat. + </p> + <p> + “Formerly,” she interrupted, “I presumed I had to deal + with a poor working-girl, an honest girl.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne took no notice of the insult. + </p> + <p> + “I have not the amount you ask,” she said coldly. + </p> + <p> + “Well, then,” vociferated the other, “you must go and + ask it of those who pay for your carriages and your dresses.” + </p> + <p> + Still impassible, the girl, instead of answering, stretched her hand + towards her key; but M. Fortin stopped her arm. + </p> + <p> + “No, no!” he said with a giggle. “People who don’t + pay their hotel-bill sleep out, my darling.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence, that very morning, had received his month’s pay, and he felt, as + it were, his two hundred francs trembling in his pockets. + </p> + <p> + Yielding to a sudden inspiration, he threw open the office-door, and, + throwing down one hundred and fifty francs upon the table, + </p> + <p> + “Here is your money, wretch!” he exclaimed. And he + withdrew at once. + </p> + <h2> + XXVII + </h2> + <p> + Maxence had not spoken to Mlle. Lucienne for nearly a month. He + tried to persuade himself that she despised him because he was poor. + He kept watching for her, for he could not help it; but as much as + possible he avoided her. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be miserable,” he thought, “the day when she + does not come home; and yet it would be the very best thing that could + happen for me.” + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, he spent all his time trying to find some explanations for + the conduct of this strange girl, who, beneath her woolen dress, had the + haughty manners of a great lady. Then he delighted to imagine + between her and himself some of those subjects of confidence, some of + those facilities which chance never fails to supply to attentive passion, + or some event which would enable him to emerge from his obscurity, and to + acquire some rights by virtue of some great service rendered. + </p> + <p> + But never had he dared to hope for an occasion as propitious as the one he + had just seized. And yet, after he had returned to his room, he + hardly dared to congratulate himself upon the promptitude of his decision. + He knew too well Mlle. Lucienne’s excessive pride and sensitive nature. + </p> + <p> + “I should not be surprised if she were angry with me for what I’ve + done,” he thought. + </p> + <p> + The evening being quite chilly, he had lighted a few sticks; and, sitting + by the fireside, he was waiting, his mind filled with vague hopes. + It seemed to him that his neighbor could not absolve herself from coming + to thank him; and he was listening intently to all the noises of the + house, starting at the sound of footsteps on the stairs, and at the + slamming of doors. Ten times, at least, he went out on tiptoe to + lean out of the window on the landing, to make sure that there was no + light in Mlle. Lucienne’s room. At eleven o’clock she had not yet + come home; and he was deliberating whether he would not start out in quest + of information, when there was a knock at the door. + </p> + <p> + “Come in!” he cried, in a voice choked with emotion. + Mlle. Lucienne came in. She was somewhat paler than usual, but calm + and perfectly self-possessed. Having bowed without the slightest + shade of embarrassment, she laid upon the mantel-piece the thirty + five-franc-notes which Maxence had thrown down to the Fortins; and, in her + most natural tone, + </p> + <p> + “Here are your hundred and fifty francs, sir,” she uttered. + “I am more grateful than I can express for your prompt kindness in + lending them to me; but I did not need them.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had risen from his seat, and was making every effort to control + his own feelings. + </p> + <p> + “Still,” he began, “after what I heard—” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she interrupted, “Mme. Fortin and her husband + were trying to frighten me. But they were losing their time. + When, after the Commune, I settled with them the manner in which I would + discharge my debt towards them, having a just estimate of their worth, I + made them write out and sign our agreement. Being in the right, I + could resist them, and was resisting them when you threw them those + hundred and fifty francs. Having laid hands upon them, they had the + pretension to keep them. That’s what I could not suffer. Not + being able to recover them by main force, I went at once to the commissary + of police. He was luckily at his office. He is an honest man, + who already, once before, helped me out of a scrape. He listened to + me kindly, and was moved by my explanations. Notwithstanding the + lateness of the hour, he put on his overcoat, and came with me to see our + landlord. After compelling them to return me your money, he + signified to them to observe strictly our agreement, under penalty of + incurring his utmost severity.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence was wonderstruck. + </p> + <p> + “How could you dare?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Wasn’t I in the right?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, a thousand times yes! Still—” + </p> + <p> + “What? Should my right be less respected because I am but a + woman? And, because I have no one to protect me, am I outside the + law, and condemned in advance to suffer the iniquitous fancies of every + scoundrel? No, thank Heaven! Henceforth I shall feel easy. + People like the Fortins, who live off I know not what shameful traffic, + have too much to fear from the police to dare to molest me further.” + </p> + <p> + The resentment of the insult could be read in her great black eyes; and a + bitter disgust contracted her lips. + </p> + <p> + “Besides,” she added, “the commissary had no need of my + explanations to understand what abject inspirations the Fortins were + following. The wretches had in their pocket the wages of their + infamy. In refusing me my key, in throwing me out in the street at + ten o’clock at night, they hoped to drive me to seek the assistance of the + base coward who paid their odious treason. And we know the price + which men demand for the slightest service they render to a woman.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence turned pale. The idea flashed upon his mind that it was to + him, perhaps, that these last words were addressed. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I swear it!” he exclaimed, “it is without + after-thought that I tried to help you. You do not owe me any thanks + even.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not thank you any the less, though,” she said gently, + “and from the bottom of my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “It was so little!” + </p> + <p> + “Intention alone makes the value of a service, neighbor. And, + besides, do not say that a hundred and fifty francs are nothing to you: + perhaps you do not earn much more each month.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess it,” he said, blushing a little. + </p> + <p> + “You see, then? No, it was not to you that my words were + addressed, but to the man who has paid the Fortins. He was waiting + on the Boulevard, the result of the manoeuvre, which, they thought, was + about to place me at his mercy. He ran quickly to me when I went + out, and followed me all the way to the office of the commissary of + police, as he follows me everywhere for the past month, with his sickening + gallantries and his degrading propositions.” + </p> + <p> + The eye flashing with anger, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, if I had known!” exclaimed Maxence. “If you + had told me but a word!” + </p> + <p> + She smiled at his vehemence. + </p> + <p> + “What would you have done?” she said. “You cannot + impart intelligence to a fool, heart to a coward, or delicacy of feeling + to a boor.” + </p> + <p> + “I could have chastised the miserable insulter.” + </p> + <p> + She had a superb gesture of indifference. + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” she interrupted. “What are insults to me? + I am so accustomed to them, that they no longer have any effect upon me. + I am eighteen: I have neither family, relatives, friends, nor any + one in the world who even knows my existence; and I live by my labor. + Can’t you see what must be the humiliations of each day? Since I was + eight years old, I have been earning the bread I eat, the dress I wear, + and the rent of the den where I sleep. Can you understand what I + have endured, to what ignominies I have been exposed, what traps have been + set for me, and how it has happened to me sometimes to owe my safety to + mere physical force? And yet I do not complain, since through it all + I have been able to retain the respect of myself, and to remain virtuous + in spite of all.” + </p> + <p> + She was laughing a laugh that had something wild in it. + </p> + <p> + And, as Maxence was looking at her with immense surprise, + </p> + <p> + “That seems strange to you, doesn’t it?” she resumed. + “A girl of eighteen, without a sou, free as air, very pretty, and + yet virtuous in the midst of Paris. Probably you don’t believe it, + or, if you do, you just think, ‘What on earth does she make by it?’ + </p> + <p> + “And really you are right; for, after all, who cares, and who thinks + any the more of me, if I work sixteen hours a day to remain virtuous? + But it’s a fancy of my own; and don’t imagine for a moment that I am + deterred by any scruples, or by timidity, or ignorance. No, no! + I believe in nothing. I fear nothing; and I know as much as the + oldest libertines, the most vicious, and the most depraved. And I + don’t say that I have not been tempted sometimes, when, coming home from + work, I’d see some of them coming out of the restaurants, splendidly + dressed, on their lover’s arm, and getting into carriages to go to the + theatre. There were moments when I was cold and hungry, and when, + not knowing where to sleep, I wandered all night through the streets like + a lost dog. There were hours when I felt sick of all this misery, + and when I said to myself, that, since it was my fate to end in the + hospital, I might as well make the trip gayly. But what! I + should have had to traffic my person, to sell myself!” + </p> + <p> + She shuddered, and in a hoarse voice, + </p> + <p> + “I would rather die,” she said. + </p> + <p> + It was difficult to reconcile words such as these with certain + circumstances of Mlle. Lucienne’s existence,—her rides around the + lake, for instance, in that carriage that came for her two or three times + a week; her ever renewed costumes, each time more eccentric and more + showy. But Maxence was not thinking of that. What she told him + he accepted as absolutely true and indisputable. And he felt + penetrated with an almost religious admiration for this young and + beautiful girl, possessed of so much vivid energy, who alone, through the + hazards, the perils, and the temptations of Paris, had succeeded in + protecting and defending herself. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he said, “without suspecting it, you had a + friend near you.” + </p> + <p> + She shuddered; and a pale smile flitted upon her lips. She knew well + enough what friendship means between a youth of twenty-five and a girl of + eighteen. + </p> + <p> + “A friend!” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + Maxence guessed her thought; and, in all the sincerity of his soul, + </p> + <p> + “Yes, a friend,” he repeated, “a comrade, a brother.” + And thinking to touch her, and gain her confidence, + </p> + <p> + “I could understand you,” he added; “for I, too, have + been very unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + But he was singularly mistaken. She looked at him with an astonished + air, and slowly, + </p> + <p> + “You unhappy!” she uttered,—“you who have a + family, relations, a mother who adores you, a sister.” Less + excited, Maxence might have wondered how she had found this out, and would + have concluded that she must feel some interest in him, since she had + doubtless taken the trouble of getting information. + </p> + <p> + “Besides, you are a man,” she went on; “and I do not + understand how a man can complain. Have you not the freedom, the + strength, and the right to undertake and to dare any thing? Isn’t + the world open to your activity and to your ambition? Woman submits + to her fate: man makes his.” + </p> + <p> + This was hurting the dearest pretensions of Maxence, who seriously thought + that he had exhausted the rigors of adversity. + </p> + <p> + “There are circumstances,” he began. + </p> + <p> + But she shrugged her shoulders gently, and, interrupting him, + </p> + <p> + “Do not insist,” she said, “or else I might think that + you lack energy. What are you talking of circumstances? There + are none so adverse but that can be overcome. What would you like, + then? To be born with a hundred thousand francs a year, and have + nothing to do but to live according to your whim of each day, idle, + satiated, a burden upon yourself, useless, or offensive to others? + Ah! If I were a man, I would dream of another fate. I should + like to start from the Foundling Asylum, without a name, and by my will, + my intelligence, my daring, and my labor, make something and somebody of + myself. I would start from nothing, and become every thing!” + </p> + <p> + With flashing eyes and quivering nostrils, she drew herself up proudly. + But almost at once, dropping her head, + </p> + <p> + “The misfortune is,” she added, “that I am but a woman; + and you who complain, if you only knew—” + </p> + <p> + She sat down, and with her elbow on the little table, her head resting + upon her hand, she remained lost in her meditations, her eyes fixed, as if + following through space all the phases of the eighteen years of her life. + </p> + <p> + There is no energy but unbends at some given moment, no will but has its + hour of weakness; and, strong and energetic as was Mlle. Lucienne, she had + been deeply touched by Maxence’s act. Had she, then, found at last + upon her path the companion of whom she had often dreamed in the + despairing hours of solitude and wretchedness? After a few moments, + she raised her head, and, looking into Maxence’s eyes with a gaze that + made him quiver like the shock of an electric battery, + </p> + <p> + “Doubtless,” she said, in a tone of indifference somewhat + forced, “you think you have in me a strange neighbor. Well, as + between neighbors; it is well to know each other. Before you judge + me, listen.” + </p> + <p> + The recommendation was useless. Maxence was listening with all the + powers of his attention. + </p> + <p> + “I was brought up,” she began, “in a village of the + neighborhood of Paris,—in Louveciennes. My mother had put me + out to nurse with some honest gardeners, poor, and burdened with a large + family. After two months, hearing nothing of my mother, they wrote + to her: she made no answer. They then went to Paris, and + called at the address she had given them. She had just moved out; + and no one knew what had become of her. They could no longer, + therefore, expect a single sou for the cares they would bestow upon me. + They kept me, nevertheless, thinking that one child the more would not + make much difference. I know nothing of my parents, therefore, + except what I heard through these kind gardeners; and, as I was still + quite young when I had the misfortune to lose them, I have but a very + vague remembrance of what they told me. I remember very well, + however, that according to their statements, my mother was a young + working-woman of rare beauty, and that, very likely, she was not my + father’s wife. If I was ever told the name of my mother or my + father, if I ever knew it, I have quite forgotten it. I had myself + no name. My adopted parents called me the Parisian. I was + happy, nevertheless, with these kind people, and treated exactly like + their own children. In winter, they sent me to school; in summer, I + helped weeding the garden. I drove a sheep or two along the road, or + else I went to gather violets and strawberries through the woods. + </p> + <p> + “This was the happiest, indeed, the only happy time of my life, + towards which my thoughts may turn when I feel despair and discouragement + getting the better of me. Alas! I was but eight, when, within + the same week, the gardener and his wife were both carried off by the same + disease,—inflammation of the lungs. + </p> + <p> + “On a freezing December morning, in that house upon which the hand + of death had just fallen, we found ourselves, six children, the oldest of + whom was not eleven, crying with grief, fright, cold, and hunger. + </p> + <p> + “Neither the gardener nor his wife had any relatives; and they left + nothing but a few wretched pieces of furniture, the sale of which barely + sufficed to pay the expenses of their funeral. The two younger + children were taken to an asylum: the others were taken charge of by + the neighbors. + </p> + <p> + “It was a laundress of Marly who took me. I was quite tall and + strong for my age. She made an apprentice of me. She was not + unkind by nature; but she was violent and brutal in the extreme. She + compelled me to do an excessive amount of work, and often of a kind above + my strength. + </p> + <p> + “Fifty times a day, I had to go from the river to the house, + carrying on my shoulders enormous bundles of wet napkins or sheets, wring + them, spread them out, and then run to Rueil to get the soiled clothes + from the customers. I did not complain (I was already too proud to + complain); but, if I was ordered to do something that seemed to me too + unjust, I refused obstinately to obey, and then I was unmercifully beaten. + In spite of all, I might, perhaps, have become attached to the woman, had + she not had the disgusting habit of drinking. Every week regularly, + on the day when she took the clothes to Paris (it was on Wednesdays), she + came home drunk. And then, according as, with the fumes of the wine, + anger or gayety rose to her brain, there were atrocious scenes or obscene + jests. + </p> + <p> + “When she was in that condition, she inspired me with horror. + And one Wednesday, as I showed my feelings too plainly, she struck me so + hard, that she broke my arm. I had been with her for twenty months. + The injury she had done me sobered her at once. She became + frightened, overpowered me with caresses, begging me to say nothing to any + one. I promised, and kept faithfully my word. + </p> + <p> + “But a physician had to be called in. There had been witnesses + who spoke. The story spread along the river, as far as Bougival and + Rueil. And one morning an officer of gendarmes called at the house; + and I don’t exactly know what would have happened, if I had not + obstinately maintained that I had broken my arm in falling down stairs.” + </p> + <p> + What surprised Maxence most was Mlle. Lucienne’s simple and natural tone. + No emphasis, scarcely an appearance of emotion. One might have + thought it was somebody’s else life that she was narrating. Meantime + she was going on, + </p> + <p> + “Thanks to my obstinate denials the woman was not disturbed. + But the truth was known; and her reputation, which was not good before, + became altogether bad. I became an object of interest. The + very same people who had seen me twenty times staggering painfully under a + load of wet clothes, which was terrible, began to pity me prodigiously + because I had had an arm broken, which was nothing. + </p> + <p> + “At last a number of our customers arranged to take me out of a + house, in which, they said, I must end by perishing under bad treatment. + </p> + <p> + “And, after many fruitless efforts, they discovered, at last, at La + Jonchere, an old Jewess lady, very rich, and a widow without children, who + consented to take charge of me. + </p> + <p> + “I hesitated at first to accept these offers; but noticing that the + laundress, since she had hurt me, had conceived a still greater aversion + for me, I made up my mind to leave her. + </p> + <p> + “It was on the day when I was introduced to my new mistress that I + first discovered I had no name. After examining me at length, + turning me around and around, making me walk, and sit down, ‘Now,’ + she inquired, ‘what is your name?’ + </p> + <p> + “I stared at her in surprise; for indeed I was then like a savage, + not having the slightest notions of the things of life. + </p> + <p> + “‘My name is the Parisian,’ I replied. + </p> + <p> + “She burst out laughing, as also another old lady, a friend of hers, + who assisted at my presentation; and I remember that my little pride was + quite offended at their hilarity. I thought they were laughing at + me. + </p> + <p> + “‘That’s not a name,’ they said at last. ‘That’s + a nickname.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I have no other.’ + </p> + <p> + “They seemed dumfounded, repeating over and over that such a thing + was unheard of; and on the spot they began to look for a name for me. + </p> + <p> + “‘Where were you born?’ inquired my new mistress. + </p> + <p> + “‘At Louveciennes.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Very well,’ said the other: ‘let us call + her Louvecienne.’ + </p> + <p> + “A long discussion followed, which irritated me so much that I felt + like running away; and it was agreed at last, that I should be called, not + Louvecienne, but Lucienne; and Lucienne I have remained. + </p> + <p> + “There was nothing said about baptism, since my new mistress was a + Jewess. + </p> + <p> + “She was an excellent woman, although the grief she had felt at the + loss of her husband had somewhat deranged her faculties. + </p> + <p> + “As soon as it was decided that I was to remain, she desired to + inspect my trousseau. I had none to show her, possessing nothing in + the world but the rags on my back. As long as I had remained with + the laundress, I had finished wearing out her old dresses; and I had never + worn any other under-clothing save that which I borrowed, ‘by + authority,’ from the clients,—an economical system adopted by + many laundresses. + </p> + <p> + “Dismayed at my state of destitution, my new mistress sent for a + seamstress, and at once ordered wherewith to dress and change me. + </p> + <p> + “Since the death of the poor gardeners, this was the first time that + any one paid any attention to me, except to exact some service of me. + I was moved to tears; and, in the excess of my gratitude, I would gladly + have died for that kind old lady. + </p> + <p> + “This feeling gave me the courage and the constancy required to bear + with her whimsical nature. She had singular manias, disconcerting + fancies, ridiculous and often exorbitant exactions. I lent myself to + it all as best I could. + </p> + <p> + “As she already had two servants, a cook and a chambermaid, I had + myself no special duties in the house. I accompanied her when she + went out riding. I helped to wait on her at table, and to dress her. + I picked up her handkerchief when she dropped it; and, above all, I looked + for her snuff-box, which she was continually mislaying. + </p> + <p> + “She was pleased with my docility, took much interest in me, and, + that I might read to her, she made me learn to read, for I hardly knew my + letters. And the old man whom she gave me for a teacher, finding me + intelligent, taught me all he knew, I imagine, of French, of geography, + and of history. + </p> + <p> + “The chambermaid, on the other hand, had been commissioned to teach + me to sew, to embroider, and to execute all sorts of fancy-work; and she + took the more interest in her lessons, that little by little she shifted + upon me the most tedious part of her work. + </p> + <p> + “I would have been happy in that pretty house at La Jonchere, if I + had only had some society better suited to my age than the old women with + whom I was compelled to live, and who scolded me for a loud word or a + somewhat abrupt gesture. What would I not have given to have been + allowed to play with the young girls whom I saw on Sundays passing in + crowds along the road! + </p> + <p> + “As time went on, my old mistress became more and more attached to + me, and endeavored in every way to give me proofs of her affection. + I sat at table with her, instead of waiting on her, as at first. She + had given me clothes, so that she could take me and introduce me anywhere. + </p> + <p> + “She went about repeating everywhere that she was as fond of me as + of a daughter; that she intended to set me up in life; and that certainly + she would leave a part of her fortune to me. + </p> + <p> + “Alas! She said it too loud, for my misfortune,—so loud, + that the news reached at last the ears of some nephews of hers in Paris, + who came once in a while to La Jonchere. + </p> + <p> + “They had never paid much attention to me up to this time. + Those speeches opened their eyes: they noticed what progress I had + made in the heart of their relative; and their cupidity became alarmed. + </p> + <p> + “Trembling lest they should lose an inheritance which they + considered as theirs, they united against me, determined to put a stop to + their aunt’s generous intentions by having me sent off. + </p> + <p> + “But it was in vain, that, for nearly a year, their hatred exhausted + itself in skillful manoeuvres. + </p> + <p> + “The instinct of preservation stimulating my perspicacity I had + penetrated their intentions, and I was struggling with all my might. + Every day, to make myself more indispensable, I invented some novel + attention. + </p> + <p> + “They only came once a week to La Jonchere: I was there all + the time. I had the advantage. I struggled successfully, and + was probably approaching the end of my troubles, when my poor old mistress + was taken sick. After forty-eight hours, she was very low. She + was fully conscious, but for that very reason she could appreciate the + danger; and the fear of death made her crazy. + </p> + <p> + “Her nieces had come to sit by her bedside; and I was expressly + forbidden to enter the room. They had understood that this was an + excellent opportunity to get rid of me forever. + </p> + <p> + “Evidently gained in advance, the physicians declared to my poor + benefactress that the air of La Jonchere was fatal to her, and that her + only chance of recovery was to establish herself in Paris. One of + her nephews offered to have her taken to his house in a litter. She + would soon get well, they said; and she could then go to finish her + convalescence in some southern city. + </p> + <p> + “Her first word was for me. She did not wish to be separated + from me, she protested, and insisted absolutely upon taking me with her. + Her nephews represented gravely to her that this was an impossibility; + that she must not think of burdening herself with me; that the simplest + thing was to leave me at La Jonchere; and that, moreover, they would see + that I should get a good situation. + </p> + <p> + “The sick woman struggled for a long time, and with an energy of + which I would not have thought her capable. + </p> + <p> + “But the others were pressing. The physicians kept repeating + that they could not answer for any thing, if she did not follow their + advice. She was afraid of death. She yielded, weeping. + </p> + <p> + “The very next morning, a sort of litter, carried by eight men, + stopped in front of the door. My poor mistress was laid into it; and + they carried her off, without even permitting me to kiss her for the last + time. + </p> + <p> + “Two hours later, the cook and the chambermaid were dismissed. + As to myself, the nephew who had promised to look after me put a + twenty-franc-piece in my hand saying, ‘Here are your eight days in + advance. Pack up your things immediately, and clear out!’” + </p> + <p> + It was impossible that Mlle. Lucienne should not be deeply moved whilst + thus stirring the ashes of her past. She showed no evidence of it, + however, except, now and then, a slight alteration in her voice. + </p> + <p> + As to Maxence, he would vainly have tried to conceal the passionate + interest with which he was listening to these unexpected confidences. + </p> + <p> + “Have you, then, never seen your benefactress again?” he + asked. + </p> + <p> + “Never,” replied Mlle. Lucienne. “All my efforts + to reach her have proved fruitless. She does not live in Paris now. + I have written to her: my letters have remained without answer. + Did she ever get them? I think not. Something tells me that + she has not forgotten me.” + </p> + <p> + She remained silent for a few moments, as if collecting herself before + resuming the thread of her narrative. And then, + </p> + <p> + “It was thus brutally,” she resumed, “that I was sent + off. It would have been useless to beg, I knew; and, moreover, I + have never known how to beg. I piled up hurriedly in two trunks and + in some bandboxes all I had in the world,—all I had received from + the generosity of my poor mistress; and, before the stated hour, I was + ready. The cook and the chambermaid had already gone. The man + who was treating me so cruelly was waiting for me. He helped me + carry out my boxes and trunks, after which he locked the door, put the key + in his pocket; and, as the American omnibus was passing, he beckoned to it + to stop. And then, before entering it, + </p> + <p> + “‘Good luck, my pretty girl!’ he said with a laugh. + </p> + <p> + “This was in the month of January, 1866. I was just thirteen. + I have had since more terrible trials, and I have found myself in much + more desperate situations: but I do not remember ever feeling such + intense discouragement as I did that day, when I found myself alone upon + that road, not knowing which way to go. I sat down on one of my + trunks. The weather was cold and gloomy: there were few + persons on the road. They looked at me, doubtless wondering what I + was doing there. I wept. I had a vague feeling that the + well-meant kindness of my poor benefactress, in bestowing upon me the + blessings of education, would in reality prove a serious impediment in the + life-struggle which I was about to begin again. I thought of what I + suffered with the laundress; and, at the idea of the tortures which the + future still held in store for me, I desired death. The Seine was + near: why not put an end at once to the miserable existence which I + foresaw? + </p> + <p> + “Such were my reflections, when a woman from Rueil, a + vegetable-vender, whom I knew by sight, happened to pass, pushing her + hand-cart before her over the muddy pavement. She stopped when she + saw me; and, in the softest voice she could command, + </p> + <p> + “‘What are you doing there, my darling?’ she asked. + </p> + <p> + “In a few words I explained to her my situation. She seemed + more surprised than moved. + </p> + <p> + “‘Such is life,’ she remarked,—‘sometimes + up, sometimes down.’ + </p> + <p> + “And, stepping up nearer, + </p> + <p> + “‘What do you expect to do now?’ she interrogated in a + tone of voice so different from that in which she had spoken at first, + that I felt more keenly the horror of my altered situation. + </p> + <p> + “‘I have no idea,’ I replied. + </p> + <p> + “After thinking for a moment, + </p> + <p> + “‘You can’t stay there,’ she resumed: ‘the + gendarmes would arrest you. Come with me. We will talk things + over at the house; and I’ll give you my advice.’ + </p> + <p> + “I was so completely crushed, that I had neither strength nor will. + Besides, what was the use of thinking? Had I any choice of + resolutions? Finally, the woman’s offer seemed to me a last favor of + destiny. + </p> + <p> + “‘I shall do as you say, madame,’ I replied. + </p> + <p> + “She proceeded at once to load up my little baggage on her cart. + We started; and soon we arrived ‘home.’ + </p> + <p> + “What she called thus was a sort of cellar, at least twelve inches + lower than the street, receiving its only light through the glass door, in + which several broken panes had been replaced by sheets of paper. It + was revoltingly filthy, and filled with a sickening odor. On all + sides were heaps of vegetables,—cabbages, potatoes, onions. In + one corner a nameless heap of decaying rags, which she called her bed; in + the centre, a small cast-iron stove, the worn-out pipe of which allowed + the smoke to escape in the room. + </p> + <p> + “‘Anyway,’ she said to me, ‘you have a home now!’ + </p> + <p> + “I helped her to unload the cart. She filled the stove with + coal, and at once declared that she wanted to inspect my things. + </p> + <p> + “My trunks were opened; and it was with exclamations of surprise + that the woman handled my dresses, my skirts, my stockings. + </p> + <p> + “‘The mischief!’ she exclaimed, ‘you dressed well, + didn’t you?’ + </p> + <p> + “Her eyes sparkled so, that a strong feeling of mistrust arose in my + mind. She seemed to consider all my property as an unexpected + godsend to herself. Her hands trembled as she handled some piece of + jewelry; and she took me to the light that she might better estimate the + value of my ear-rings. + </p> + <p> + “And so, when she asked me if I had any money, determined to hide at + least my twenty-franc-piece, which was my sole fortune, I replied boldly, + ‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘That’s a pity,’ she grumbled. + </p> + <p> + “But she wished to know my history, and I was compelled to tell it + to her. One thing only surprised her,—my age; and in fact, + though only thirteen, I looked fully sixteen. + </p> + <p> + “When I had done, + </p> + <p> + “‘Never mind!’ she said. ‘It was lucky for + you that you met me. You are at least certain now of eating every + day; for I am going to take charge of you. I am getting old: + you’ll help me to drag my cart. If you are as smart as you are + pretty, we’ll make money.’ + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could suit me less. But how could I resist? She + threw a few rags upon the floor; and on them I had to sleep. The + next day, wearing my meanest dress, and a pair of wooden shoes which she + had bought for me, and which bruised my feet horribly, I had to harness + myself to the cart by means of a leather strap, which cut my shoulders and + my chest. She was an abominable creature, that woman; and I soon + found out that her repulsive features indicated but too well her ignoble + instincts. After leading a life of vice and shame, she had, with the + approach of old age, fallen into the most abject poverty, and had adopted + the trade of vegetable-vender, which she carried on just enough to escape + absolute starvation. Enraged at her fate, she found a detestable + pleasure in ill-treating me, or in endeavoring to stain my imagination by + the foulest speeches. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, if I had only known where to fly, and where to take refuge! + But, abusing my ignorance, that execrable woman had persuaded me, that, if + I attempted to go out alone, I would be arrested. And I knew no one + to whom I could apply for protection and advice. And then I began to + learn that beauty, to a poor girl, is a fatal gift. One by one, the + woman had sold every thing I had,—dresses, underclothes, jewels; and + I was now reduced to rags almost as mean as when I was with the laundress. + </p> + <p> + “Every morning, rain or shine, hot or cold, we started, wheeling our + cart from village to village, all along the Seine, from Courbevoie to + Pont-Marly. I could see no end to this wretched existence, when one + evening the commissary of police presented himself at our hovel, and + ordered us to follow him. + </p> + <p> + “We were taken to prison; and there I found myself thrown among some + hundred women, whose faces, words, and gestures frightened me. The + vegetable-woman had committed a theft; and I was accused of complicity. + Fortunately I was easily able to demonstrate my innocence; and, at the end + of two weeks, a jailer opened the door to me, saying, ‘Go: you + are free!’” + </p> + <p> + Maxence understood now the gently ironical smile with which Mlle. Lucienne + had heard him assert that he, too, had been very unhappy. What a + life hers had been! And how could such things be within a step of + Paris, in the midst of a society which deems its organization too perfect + to consent to modify it! + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne went on, speaking somewhat faster, + </p> + <p> + “I was indeed free; but of what use could my freedom be to me? + I knew not which way to go. A mechanical instinct took me back to + Rueil. I fancied I would be safer among people who all knew me, and + that I might find shelter in our old lodgings. But this last hope + was disappointed. Immediately after our arrest, the owner of the + building had thrown out every thing it contained, and had rented it to a + hideous beggar, who offered me, with a giggle, to become his housekeeper. + I ran off as fast as I could. + </p> + <p> + “The situation was certainly more horrible now than the day when I + had been turned out of my benefactress’ house. But the eight months + I had just spent with the horrible woman had taught me anew how to bear + misery, and had nerved up my energy. + </p> + <p> + “I took out from a fold of my dress, where I had kept it constantly + hid, the twenty-franc-piece I had received; and, as I was hungry, I + entered a sort of eating and lodging house, where I had occasionally taken + a meal. The proprietor was a kind-hearted man. When I had told + him my situation, he invited me to remain with him until I could find + something better. On Sundays and Mondays the customers were plenty; + and he was obliged to take an extra servant. He offered me that work + to do, promising, in exchange, my lodging and one meal a day. I + accepted. The next day being Sunday, I commenced the arduous duties + of a bar-maid in a low drinking house. My <i>pourboires</i> amounted + sometimes to five or ten francs; I had my board and lodging free; and at + the end of three months I had been able to provide myself with some decent + clothing, and was commencing to accumulate a little reserve, when the + lodging-house keeper, whose business had unexpectedly developed itself to + a considerable extent, concluded to engage a man-waiter, and urged me to + look elsewhere for work. I did so. An old neighbor of ours + told me of a situation at Bougival, where she said I would be very + comfortable. Overcoming my repugnance, I applied, and was accepted. + I was to get thirty francs a month. + </p> + <p> + “The place might have been a good one. There were only three + in the family,—the gentleman and his wife, and a son of twenty-five. + Every morning, father and son left for Paris by the first train, and only + came home to dinner at about six o’clock. I was therefore alone all + day with the woman. Unfortunately, she was a cross and disagreeable + person, who, never having had a servant before, felt an insatiable desire + of showing and exercising her authority. She was, moreover, + extremely suspicious, and found some pretext to visit regularly my trunks + once or twice a week, to see if I had not concealed some of her napkins or + silver spoons. Having told her that I had once been a laundress, she + made me wash and iron all the clothes in the house, and was forever + accusing me of using too much soap and too much coal. Still I liked + the place well enough; and I had a little room in the attic; which I + thought charming, and where I spent delightful evenings reading or sewing. + </p> + <p> + “But luck was against me. The young gentleman of the house + took a fancy to me, and determined to make me his mistress. I + discouraged him in a way; but he persisted in his loathsome attention, + until one night he broke into my room, and I was compelled to shout for + help with all my might, before I could get rid of him. + </p> + <p> + “The next day I left that house; but I tried in vain to find another + situation in Bougival. I resolved then to seek a place in Paris. + I had a big trunk full of good clothes, and about a hundred francs of + savings; and I felt no anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “When I arrived in Paris, I went straight to an intelligence-office. + I was extremely well received by a very affable old woman who promised to + get me a good place, and, in the mean time, solicited me to board with + her. She kept a sort of boarding-house for servants out of place; + and there were there some fifty or sixty of us, who slept at night in long + dormitories. + </p> + <p> + “Time went by, and still I did not find that famous place. The + board was expensive, too, for my scanty means; and I determined to leave. + I started in quest of new lodgings, followed by a porter, carrying my + trunk; but as I was crossing the Boulevard, not getting quick enough out + of the way of a handsome private carriage which was coming at full trot, I + was knocked down, and trampled under the horses’s feet.” + </p> + <p> + Without allowing Maxence to interrupt her, + </p> + <p> + “I had lost consciousness,” went on Mlle. Lucienne. + “When I came to my senses, I was sitting in a drugstore; and three + or four persons were busy around me. I had no fracture, but only + some severe contusions, and a deep cut on the head. + </p> + <p> + “The physician who had attended me requested me to try and walk; but + I could not even stand on my feet. Then he asked me where I lived, + that I might be taken there; and I was compelled to own that I was a poor + servant out of place, without a home or a friend to care for me. + </p> + <p> + “‘In that case,’ said the doctor to the druggist, + ‘we must send her to the hospital.’ + </p> + <p> + “And they sent for a cab. + </p> + <p> + “In the mean time, quite a crowd had gathered outside, and the + conduct of the person who was in the carriage that had run over me was + being indignantly criticised. It was a woman; and I had caught a + glimpse of her at the very moment I was falling under the horses’ feet. + She had not even condescended to get out of her carriage; but, calling a + policeman, she had given him her name and address, adding, loud enough to + be heard by the crowd, ‘I am in too great a hurry to stop. My + coachman is an awkward fellow, whom I shall dismiss as soon as I get home. + I am ready to pay any thing that may be asked.’ + </p> + <p> + “She had also sent one of her cards for me. A policeman handed + it to me; and I read the name, Baronne de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “‘That’s lucky for you,’ said the doctor. ‘That + lady is the wife of a very rich banker; and she will be able to help you + when you get well.’ + </p> + <p> + “The cab had now come. I was carried into it; and, an hour + later, I was admitted at the hospital, and laid on a clean, comfortable + bed. + </p> + <p> + “But my trunk!—my trunk, which contained all my things, all I + had in the world, and, worse still, all the money I had left. I + asked for it, my heart filled with anxiety. No one had either seen + or heard of it. Had the porter missed me in the crowd? or had he + basely availed himself of the accident to rob me? This was hard to + decide. + </p> + <p> + “The good sisters promised that they would have it looked after, and + that the police would certainly be able to find that man whom I had + engaged near the intelligence-office. But all these assurances + failed to console me. This blow was the finishing one. I was + taken with fever; and for more than two weeks my life was despaired of. + I was saved at last: but my convalescence was long and tedious; and + for over two months I lingered with alternations of better and of worse. + </p> + <p> + “Yet such had been my misery for the past two years, that this + gloomy stay in a hospital was for me like an oasis in the desert. + The good sisters were very kind to me; and, when I was able, I helped them + with their lighter work, or went to the chapel with them. I + shuddered at the thought that I must leave them as soon as I was entirely + well; and then what would become of me? For my trunk had not been + found, and I was destitute of all. + </p> + <p> + “And yet I had, at the hospital, more than one subject for gloomy + reflections. Twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays, visitors were + admitted; and there was not on those days a single patient who did not + receive a relative or a friend. But I, no one, nothing, never! + </p> + <p> + “But I am mistaken. I was commencing to get well, when one + Sunday I saw by my bedside an old man, dressed all in black, of alarming + appearance, wearing blue spectacles, and holding under his arm an enormous + portfolio, crammed full of papers. + </p> + <p> + “‘You are Mlle. Lucienne, I believe,’ he asked. + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes,’ I replied, quite surprised. + </p> + <p> + “‘You are the person who was knocked down by a carriage on the + corner of the Boulevard and the Faubourg St. Martin?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes sir.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Do you know whose equipage that was?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘The Baronne de Thaller’s, I was told.’ + </p> + <p> + “He seemed a little surprised, but at once, + </p> + <p> + “‘Have you seen that lady, or caused her to be seen in your + behalf?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Have you heard from her in any manner?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘No.’ + </p> + <p> + “A smile came back upon his lips. + </p> + <p> + “‘Luckily for you I am here,’ he said. ‘Several + times already I have called; but you were too unwell to hear me. Now + that you are better, listen.’ + </p> + <p> + “And thereupon, taking a chair, he commenced to explain his + profession to me. + </p> + <p> + “He was a sort of broker; and accidents were his specialty. As + soon as one took place, he was notified by some friends of his at police + headquarters. At once he started in quest of the victim, overtook + her at home or at the hospital, and offered his services. For a + moderate commission he undertook, if needs be, to recover damages. + He commenced suit when necessary; and, if he thought the case tolerably + safe, he made advances. He stated, for instance, that my case was a + plain one, and that he would undertake to obtain four or five thousand + francs, at least, from Mme. de Thaller. All he wanted was my power + of attorney. But, in spite of his pressing instances, I declined his + offers; and he withdrew, very much displeased, assuring me that I would + soon repent. + </p> + <p> + “Upon second thought, indeed, I regretted to have followed the first + inspiration of my pride, and the more so, that the good sisters whom I + consulted on the subject told me that I was wrong, and that my reclamation + would be perfectly proper. At their suggestion, I then adopted + another line of conduct, which, they thought, would as surely bring about + the same result. + </p> + <p> + “As briefly as possible, I wrote out the history of my life from the + day I had been left with the gardeners at Louveciennes. I added to + it a faithful account of my present situation; and I addressed the whole + to Mme. de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “‘You’ll see if she don’t come before a day or two,’ + said the sisters. + </p> + <p> + “They were mistaken. Mme. de Thaller came neither the next nor + the following days; and I was still awaiting her answer, when, one + morning, the doctor announced that I was well enough to leave the + hospital. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot say that I was very sorry. I had lately made the + acquaintance of a young workwoman, who had been sent to the hospital in + consequence of a fall, and who occupied the bed next to mine. She + was a girl of about twenty, very gentle, very obliging, and whose amiable + countenance had attracted me from the first. + </p> + <p> + “Like myself, she had no parents. But she was rich, very rich. + She owned the furniture of the room, a sewing-machine, which had cost her + three hundred francs, and, like a true child of Paris, she understood five + or six trades, the least lucrative of which yielded her twenty-five or + thirty cents a day. In less than a week, we had become good friends; + and, when she left the hospital, + </p> + <p> + “‘Believe me,’ she said: ‘when you come out + yourself, don’t waste your time looking for a place. Come to me: + I can accommodate you. I’ll teach you what I know; and, if you are + industrious, you’ll make your living, and you’ll be free.’ + </p> + <p> + “It was to her room that I went straight from the hospital, + carrying, tied in a handkerchief, my entire baggage,—one dress, and + a few undergarments that the good sisters had given me. + </p> + <p> + “She received me like a sister, and after showing me her lodging, + two little attic-rooms shining with cleanliness, + </p> + <p> + “‘You’ll see,’ she said, kissing me, ‘how happy + we’ll be here.’” + </p> + <p> + It was getting late. M. Fortin had long ago come up and put out the + gas on the stairs. One by one, every noise had died away in the + hotel. Nothing now disturbed the silence of the night save the + distant sound of some belated cab on the Boulevard. But neither + Maxence nor Mlle. Lucienne were noticing the flight of time, so interested + were they, one in telling, and the other in listening to, this story of a + wonderful existence. However, Mlle. Lucienne’s voice had become + hoarse with fatigue. She poured herself a glass of water, which she + emptied at a draught, and then at once, + </p> + <p> + “Never yet,” she resumed, “had I been agitated by such a + sweet sensation. My eyes were full of tears; but they were tears of + gratitude and joy. After so many years of isolation, to meet with + such a friend, so generous, and so devoted: it was like finding a + family. For a few weeks, I thought that fate had relented at last. + My friend was an excellent workwoman; but with some intelligence, and the + will to learn, I soon knew as much as she did. + </p> + <p> + “There was plenty of work. By working twelve hours, with the + help of the thrice-blessed sewing-machine, we succeeded in making six, + seven, and even eight francs a day. It was a fortune. + </p> + <p> + “Thus several months elapsed in comparative comfort. + </p> + <p> + “Once more I was afloat, and I had more clothes than I had lost in + my trunk. I liked the life I was leading; and I would be leading it + still, if my friend had not one day fallen desperately in love with a + young man she had met at a ball. I disliked him very much, and took + no trouble to conceal my feelings: nevertheless, my friend imagined + that I had designs upon him, and became fiercely jealous of me. + Jealousy does not reason; and I soon understood that we would no longer be + able to live in common, and that I must look elsewhere for shelter. + But my friend gave me no time to do so. + </p> + <p> + “Coming home one Monday night at about eleven, she notified me to + clear out at once. I attempted to expostulate: she replied + with abuse. Rather than enter upon a degrading struggle, I yielded, + and went out. + </p> + <p> + “That night I spent on a chair in a neighbor’s room. But the + next day, when I went for my things, my former friend refused to give + them, and presumed to keep every thing. I was compelled, though + reluctantly, to resort to the intervention of the commissary of police. + </p> + <p> + “I gained my point. But the good days had gone. Luck did + not follow me to the wretched furnished house where I hired a room. + I had no sewing-machine, and but few acquaintances. By working + fifteen or sixteen hours a day, I made thirty or forty cents. That + was not enough to live on. Then work failed me altogether, and, + piece by piece, every thing I had went to the pawnbroker’s. On a + gloomy December morning, I was turned out of my room, and left on the + pavement with a ten-cent-piece for my fortune. + </p> + <p> + “Never had I been so low; and I know not to what extremities I might + have come at last, when I happened to think of that wealthy lady whose + horses had upset me on the Boulevard. I had kept her card. + Without hesitation, I went unto a grocery, and calling for some paper and + a pen, I wrote, overcoming the last struggle of my pride, + </p> + <p> + “‘Do you remember, madame, a poor girl whom your carriage came + near crushing to death? Once before she applied to you, and received + no answer. She is to-day without shelter and without bread; and you + are her supreme hope.’ + </p> + <p> + “I placed these few lines in an envelope, and ran to the address + indicated on the card. It was a magnificent residence, with a vast + court-yard in front. In the porter’s lodge, five or six servants + were talking as I came in, and looked at me impudently, from head to foot, + when I requested them to take my letter to Mme. de Thaller. One of + them, however, took pity on me, + </p> + <p> + “‘Come with me,’ he said, ‘come along!’ + </p> + <p> + “He made me cross the yard, and enter the vestibule; and then, + </p> + <p> + “‘Give me your letter,’ he said, ‘and wait here + for me.’” + </p> + <p> + Maxence was about to express the thoughts which Mme. de Thaller’s name + naturally suggested to his mind, but Mlle. Lucienne interrupted him, + </p> + <p> + “In all my life,” she went on, “I had never seen any + thing so magnificent as that vestibule with its tall columns, its + tessellated floor, its large bronze vases filled with the rarest flowers, + and its red velvet benches, upon which tall footmen in brilliant livery + were lounging. + </p> + <p> + “I was, I confess, somewhat intimidated by all of this splendor; and + I remained awkwardly standing, when suddenly the servants stood up + respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “A door had just opened, through which appeared a man already past + middle age, tall, thin, dressed in the extreme of fashion, and wearing + long red whiskers falling over his chest.” + </p> + <p> + “The Baron de Thaller,” murmured Maxence. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne took no notice of the interruption. + </p> + <p> + “The attitude of the servants,” she went on, “had made + me easily guess that he was the master. I was bowing to him, + blushing and embarrassed, when, noticing me, he stopped short, shuddering + from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + “‘Who are you?’ he asked me roughly. + </p> + <p> + “I attributed his manner to the sad condition of my dress, which + appeared more miserable and more dilapidated still amid the surrounding + splendors; and, in a scarcely intelligible voice, I began, + </p> + <p> + “‘I am a poor girl, sir—’ + </p> + <p> + “But he interrupted me. + </p> + <p> + “‘To the point! What do you want?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I am awaiting an answer, sir, to a request which I have just + forwarded to the baroness.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘What about?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Once sir, I was run over in the street by the baroness’s + carriage: I was severely wounded, and had to be taken to the + hospital.’ + </p> + <p> + “I fancied there was something like terror in the man’s look. + </p> + <p> + “‘It is you, then, who once before sent a long letter to my + wife, in which you told the story of your life?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes, sir, it was I.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You stated in that letter that you had no parents, having + been left by your mother with some gardeners at Louveciennes?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘That is the truth.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘What has become of these gardeners?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘They are dead.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘What was your mother’s name?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I never knew.’ + </p> + <p> + “To M. de Thaller’s first surprise had succeeded a feeling of + evident irritation; but, the more haughty and brutal his manners, the + cooler and the more self-possessed I became. + </p> + <p> + “‘And you are soliciting assistance?’ he said. + </p> + <p> + “I drew myself up, and, looking at him straight in the eyes, + </p> + <p> + “‘I beg your pardon,’ I replied: ‘it is a + legitimate indemnity which I claim.’ + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, it seemed to me that my firmness alarmed him. With a + feverish haste, he began to feel in his pockets. He took out their + contents of gold and bank-notes all in a heap, and, thrusting it into my + hands without counting, + </p> + <p> + “‘Here,’ he said, ‘take this. Are you + satisfied?’ + </p> + <p> + “I observed to him, that, having sent a letter to Mme. de Thaller, + it would perhaps be proper to await her answer. But he replied that + it was not necessary, and, pushing me towards the door, + </p> + <p> + “‘You may depend upon it,’ he said, ‘I shall tell + my wife that I saw you.’ + </p> + <p> + “I started to go out; but I had not gone ten steps across the yard, + when I heard him crying excitedly to his servants, + </p> + <p> + “‘You see that beggar, don’t you? Well, the first one + who allows her to cross the threshold of my door shall be turned out on + the instant.’ + </p> + <p> + “A beggar, I! Ah the wretch! I turned round to cast his + alms into his face; but already he had disappeared, and I only found + before me the footman, chuckling stupidly. + </p> + <p> + “I went out; and, as my anger gradually passed off, I felt thankful + that I had been unable to follow the dictates of my wounded pride. + </p> + <p> + “‘Poor girl,’ I thought to myself, ‘where would + you be at this hour? You would only have to select between suicide + and the vilest existence; whereas now you are above want.’ + </p> + <p> + “I was passing before a small restaurant. I went in; for I was + very hungry, having, so to speak, eaten nothing for several days past. + Besides, I felt anxious to count my treasure. The Baron de Thaller + had given me nine hundred and thirty francs. + </p> + <p> + “This sum, which exceeded the utmost limits of my ambition, seemed + inexhaustible to me: I was dazzled by its possession. + </p> + <p> + “‘And yet,’ I thought, ‘had M. de Thaller happened + to have ten thousand francs in his pockets he would have given them to me + all the same.’ + </p> + <p> + “I was at a loss to explain this strange generosity. Why his + surprise when he first saw me, then his anger, and his haste to get rid of + me? How was it that a man whose mind must be filled with the gravest + cares had so distinctly remembered me, and the letter I had written to his + wife? Why, after showing himself so generous, had he so strictly + excluded me from his house? + </p> + <p> + “After vainly trying for some time to solve this riddle, I concluded + that I must be the victim of my own imagination; and I turned my attention + to making the best possible use of my sudden fortune. On the same + day, I took a little room in the Faubourg St. Denis; and I bought myself a + sewing-machine. Before the week was over, I had work before me for + several months. Ah! this time it seemed indeed that I had nothing + more to apprehend from destiny; and I looked forward, without fear, to the + future. At the end of a month, I was earning four to five francs a + day, when, one afternoon, a stout man, very well dressed, looking honest + and good-natured, and speaking French with some difficulty, made his + appearance at my room. He was an American he stated, and had been + sent to me by the woman for whom I worked. Having need of a skilled + Parisian work-woman, he came to propose to me to follow him to New York, + where he would insure me a brilliant position. + </p> + <p> + “But I knew several poor girls, who, on the faith of dazzling + promises, had expatriated themselves. Once abroad, they had been + shamefully abandoned, and had been driven, to escape starvation, to resort + to the vilest expedients. I refused, therefore, and frankly gave him + my reasons for doing so. + </p> + <p> + “My visitor at once protested indignantly. Whom did I take him + for? It was a fortune that I was refusing. He guaranteed me in + New York board, lodging, and two hundred francs a month. He would + pay all traveling and moving expenses. And, to prove to me the + fairness of his intentions, he was ready, he said, to sign an agreement, + and pay me a thousand down. + </p> + <p> + “These offers were so brilliant, that I was staggered in my + resolution. + </p> + <p> + “‘Well,’ I said, ‘give me twenty-four hours to + decide. I wish to see my employer.’ + </p> + <p> + “He seemed very much annoyed; but, as I remained firm in my purpose, + he left, promising to return the next day to receive my final answer. + </p> + <p> + “I ran at once to my employer. She did not know what I was + talking about. She had sent no one, and was not acquainted with any + American. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, I never saw him again; and I couldn’t help thinking of + this singular adventure, when, one evening during the following week, as I + was coming home at about eleven o’clock, two policemen arrested me, and, + in spite of my earnest protestations, took me to the station-house, where + I was locked up with a dozen unfortunates who had just been taken up on + the Boulevards. I spent the night crying with shame and anger; and I + don’t know what would have become of me, if the justice of the peace, who + examined me the next morning, had not happened to be a just and kind man. + As soon as I had explained to him that I was the victim of a most + humiliating error he sent an agent in quest of information, and having + satisfied himself that I was an honest girl, working for my living, he + discharged me. But, before permitting me to go, + </p> + <p> + “‘Beware, my child,’ he said to me: ‘it is + upon a formal and well-authenticated declaration that you were arrested. + Therefore you must have enemies. People have an interest in getting + rid of you.’” + </p> + <p> + Mademoiselle Lucienne was evidently almost exhausted with fatigue: + her voice was failing her. But it was in vain that Maxence begged + her to take a few moments of rest. + </p> + <p> + “No,” she answered, “I’d rather get through as quick as + possible.” + </p> + <p> + And, making an effort, she resumed her narrative, hurrying more and more. + </p> + <p> + “I returned home, my mind all disturbed by the judge’s warnings. + I am no coward; but it is a terrible thing to feel one’s self incessantly + threatened by an unknown and mysterious danger, against which nothing can + be done. + </p> + <p> + “In vain did I search my past life: I could think of no one + who could have any interest in effecting my ruin. Those alone have + enemies who have had friends. I had never had but one friend, the + kind-hearted girl who had turned me out of her home in a fit of absurd + jealousy. But I knew her well enough to knew that she was incapable + of malice, and that she must long since have forgotten the unlucky cause + of our rupture. + </p> + <p> + “Weeks after weeks passed without any new incident. I had + plenty of work and was earning enough money to begin saving. So I + felt comfortable, laughed at my former fears, and neglected the + precautions which I had taken at first; when, one evening, my employer, + having a very important and pressing order, sent for me. We did not + get through our work until long after midnight. + </p> + <p> + “She wished me to spend the rest of the night with her; but it would + have been necessary to make up a bed for me, and disturb the whole + household. + </p> + <p> + “‘Bash!’ I said, ‘this will not be the first + time I cross Paris in the middle of the night.’ + </p> + <p> + “I started; and I was going along, walking as fast as I could, when, + from the angle of a dark, narrow street, a man sprang upon me, threw me + down, struck me, and would doubtless have killed me, but for two brave + gentlemen who heard my screams and rushed to my assistance. The man + ran off; and I was able to walk the rest of the way home, having received + but a very slight wound. + </p> + <p> + “But the very next morning I ran to see my friend, the justice of + the peace. He listened to me gravely, and, when I had concluded, + </p> + <p> + “‘How were you dressed?’ he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “‘All in black,’ I replied, ‘very modestly, like a + workwoman.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Had you nothing on your person that could tempt a thief?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Nothing. No watch-chain, no jewelry, no ear-rings + even.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Then,’ he uttered, knitting his brows, ‘it is + not a fortuitous crime: it is another attempt on the part of your + enemies.’ + </p> + <p> + “Such was also my opinion. And yet: + </p> + <p> + “‘But, sir,’ I exclaimed, ‘who can have any + interest to destroy me, —a poor obscure girl as I am? I have + thought carefully and well, and I have not a single enemy that I can think + of.’ And, as I had full confidence in his kindness, I went on + telling him the story of my life. + </p> + <p> + “‘You are a natural child,’ he said as soon as I had + done, ‘and you have been basely abandoned. That fact alone + would be sufficient to justify every supposition. You do not know + your parents; but it is quite possible that they may know you, and that + they may never have lost sight of you. Your mother was a + working-girl, you think? That may be. But your father? + Do you know what interests your existence may threaten? Do you know + what elaborate edifice of falsehood and infamy your sudden appearance + might tumble to the ground?’ + </p> + <p> + “I was listening dumfounded. + </p> + <p> + “Never had such conjectures crossed my mind; and, whilst I doubted + their probability, I had, at least, to admit their possibility. + </p> + <p> + “‘What must I do, then?’ I inquired. + </p> + <p> + “The peace-officer shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “‘Indeed, my poor child, I hardly know what to advise. + The police is not omnipotent. It can do nothing to anticipate a + crime conceived in the brain of an unknown scoundrel.’ + </p> + <p> + “I was terrified. He saw it, and took pity on me. + </p> + <p> + “‘In your place,’ he added, ‘I would change my + domicile. You might, perhaps, thus make them lose your track. + And, above all, do not fail to give me your new address. Whatever I + can do to protect you, and insure your safety, I shall do.’ + </p> + <p> + “That excellent man has kept his word; and once again I owed my + safety to him. ‘Tis he who is now commissary of police in this + district, and who protected me against Mme. Fortin. I hastened to + follow his advice, and two days later I had hired the room in this house + in which I am still living. In order to avoid every chance of + discovery, I left my employer, and requested her to say, if any one came + to inquire after me, that I had gone to America. + </p> + <p> + “I soon found work again in a very fashionable dress-making + establishment, the name of which you must have heard,—Van Klopen’s. + Unfortunately, war had just been declared. Every day announced a new + defeat. The Prussians were coming; then the siege began. Van + Klopen had closed his shop, and left Paris. I had a few savings, + thank heaven; and I husbanded them as carefully as shipwrecked mariners do + their last ration of food, when I unexpectedly found some work. + </p> + <p> + “It was one Sunday, and I had gone out to see some battalions of + National Guards passing along the Boulevard, when suddenly I saw one of + the vivandieres, who was marching behind the band, stop, and run towards + me with open arms. It was my old friend from the Batignolles, who + had recognized me. She threw her arms around my neck, and, as we had + at once become the centre of a group of at least five hundred idlers, + </p> + <p> + “‘I must speak to you,’ she said. ‘If you + live in the neighborhood, let’s go to your room. The service can + wait.’ + </p> + <p> + “I brought her here, and at once she commenced to excuse herself for + her past conduct, begging me to restore her my friendship. As I + expected, she had long since forgotten the young man, cause of our + rupture. But she was now in love, and seriously this time, she + declared, with a furniture-maker, who was a captain in the National + Guards. It was through him that she had become a vivandiere; and she + offered me a similar position, if I wished it. But I did not wish + it; and, as I was complaining that I could find no work, she swore that + she would get me some through her captain, who was a very influential man. + </p> + <p> + “Through him, I did in fact obtain a few dozen jackets to make. + This work was very poorly paid; but the little I earned was that much less + to take from my humble resources. In that way I managed to get + through the siege without suffering too much. + </p> + <p> + “After the armistice, unfortunately, M. Van Klopen had not yet + returned. I was unable to procure any work; my resources were + exhausted; and I would have starved during the Commune, but for my old + friend, who several times brought me a little money, and some provisions. + Her captain was now a colonel, and was about to become a member of the + government; at least, so she assured me. The entrance of the troops + into Paris put an end to her dream. One night she came to me livid + with fright. She supposed herself gravely compromised, and begged me + to hide her. For four days she remained with me. On the fifth, + just as we were sitting down to dinner, my room was invaded by a number of + police-agents, who showed us an order of arrest, and commanded us to + follow them. + </p> + <p> + “My friend sank down upon a chair, stupid with fright. But I + retained my presence of mind, and persuaded one of the agents to go and + notify my friend the justice. He happened luckily to be at home, and + at once hastened to my assistance. He could do nothing, however, for + the moment; the agents having positive orders to take us straight to + Versailles. + </p> + <p> + “‘Well,’ said he, ‘I shall accompany you.’ + </p> + <p> + “From the very first steps he took the next morning, he discovered + that my position was indeed grave. But he also and very clearly + recognized a new device of the enemy to bring about my destruction. + The information filed against me stated that I had remained in the service + of the Commune to the last moment; that I had been seen behind the + barricades with a gun in my hand; and that I had formed one of a band of + vile incendiaries. This infamous scheme had evidently been suggested + by my relations with my friend from the Batignolles, who was still more + terribly compromised than she thought, the poor girl; her colonel having + been captured, and convicted of pillage and murder, and herself charged + with complicity. + </p> + <p> + “Isolated as I was, without resources, and without relatives, I + would certainly have perished, but for the devoted efforts of my friend + the justice, whose official position gave him access everywhere, and + enabled him to reach my judges. He succeeded in demonstrating my + entire innocence; and after forty-eight hours’ detention, which seemed an + age to me, I was set at liberty. + </p> + <p> + “At the door; I found the man who had just saved me. He was + waiting for me, but would not suffer me to express the gratitude with + which my heart overflowed. + </p> + <p> + “‘You will thank me,’ he said, ‘when I have + deserved it better. I have done nothing as yet that any honest man + wouldn’t have done in my place. What I wish is to discover what + interests you are threatening without knowing it, and which must be + considerable, if I may judge by the passion and the tenacity of those who + are pursuing you. What I desire to do is to lay hands upon the + cowardly rascals in whose way you seem to stand.’ + </p> + <p> + “I shook my head. + </p> + <p> + “‘You will not succeed,’ I said to him. + </p> + <p> + “‘Who knows? I’ve done harder things than that in my + life.’ + </p> + <p> + “And taking a large envelope from his pocket, + </p> + <p> + “‘This,’ he said, ‘is the letter which caused your + arrest. I have examined it attentively; and I am certain that the + handwriting is not disguised. That’s something to start with, and + may enable me to verify my suspicions, should any occur to my mind. + In the mean time, return quietly to Paris, resume your ordinary + occupations, answer vaguely any questions that may be asked about this + matter, and above all, never mention my name. Remain at the Hotel + des Folies: it is in my district, in my legitimate sphere of action; + besides, the proprietors are in a position where they dare not disobey my + orders. Never come to my office, unless something grave and + unforeseen should occur. Our chances of success would be seriously + compromised, if they could suspect the interest I take in your welfare. + Keep your eyes open on every thing that is going on around you, and, if + you notice any thing suspicious, write to me. I will myself organize + a secret surveillance around you. If I can bag one of the rascals + who are watching you, that’s all I want.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘And now,’ added this good man, ‘good-by. + Patience and courage.’ + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately he had not thought of offering me a little money: + I had not dared to ask him for any, and I had but eight sous left. + It was on foot, therefore, that I was compelled to return to Paris. + </p> + <p> + “Mme. Fortin received me with open arms. With me returned the + hope of recovering the hundred and odd francs which I owed her, and which + she had given up for lost. Moreover, she had excellent news for me. + M. Van Klopen had sent for me during my absence, requesting me to call at + his shop. Tired as I was, I went to see him at once. I found + him very much downcast by the poor prospects of business. Still he + was determined to go on, and offered to employ me, not as work-woman, as + heretofore, but to try on garments for customers, at a salary of one + hundred and twenty francs a month. I was not in a position to be + very particular. I accepted; and there I am still. + </p> + <p> + “Every morning, when I get to the shop, I take off this simple + costume, and I put on a sort of livery that belongs to M. Van Klopen, + —wide skirts, and a black silk dress. + </p> + <p> + “Then whenever a customer comes who wants a cloak, a mantle, or some + other ‘wrapping,’ I step up and put on the garment, that the + purchaser may see how it looks. I have to walk, to turn around, sit + down, etc. It is absurdly ridiculous, often humiliating; and many a + time, during the first days, I felt tempted to give back to M. Van Klopen + his black silk dress. + </p> + <p> + “But the conjectures of my friend the peace-officer were constantly + agitating my brain. Since I thought I had discovered a mystery in my + existence, I indulged in all sorts of fancies, and was momentarily + expecting some extraordinary occurrence, some compensation of destiny, and + I remained. + </p> + <p> + “But I was not yet at the end of my troubles.” + </p> + <p> + Since she had been speaking of M. Van Klopen, Mlle. Lucienne seemed to + have lost her tone of haughty assurance and imperturbable coolness; and it + was with a look of mingled confusion and sadness that she went on. + </p> + <p> + “What I was doing at Van Klopen’s was exceedingly painful to me; and + yet he very soon asked me to do something more painful still. + Gradually Paris was filling up again. The hotels had re-opened; + foreigners were pouring in; and the Bois Boulogne was resuming its wonted + animation. Still but few orders came in, and those for dresses of + the utmost simplicity, of dark color and plain material, on which it was + hard to make twenty-five per cent profit. Van Klopen was + disconsolate. He kept speaking to me of the good old days, when some + of his customers spent as much as thirty thousand francs a month for + dresses and trifles, until one day, + </p> + <p> + “‘You are the only one,’ he told me, ‘who can help + me out just now. You are really good looking; and I am sure that in + full dress, spread over the cushions of a handsome carriage, you would + create quite a sensation, and that all the rest of the women would be + jealous of you, and would wish to look like you. There needs but + one, you know, to give the good example.’” + </p> + <p> + Maxence started up suddenly, and, striking his head with hand, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I understand now!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “I thought that Van Klopen was jesting,” went on the young + girl. “But he had never been more in earnest; and, to prove + it, he commenced explaining to me what he wanted. He proposed to get + up for me some of those costumes which are sure to attract attention; and + two or three times a week he would send me a fine carriage, and I would go + and show myself in the Bois. + </p> + <p> + “I felt disgusted at the proposition. + </p> + <p> + “‘Never!’ I said. + </p> + <p> + “‘Why not?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Because I respect myself too much to make a living + advertisement of myself.’ + </p> + <p> + “He shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “‘You are wrong,’ he said. ‘You are not + rich, and I would give you twenty francs for each ride. At the rate + of eight rides a month, it would be one hundred and sixty francs added to + your wages. Besides,’ he added with a wink, ‘it would be + an excellent opportunity to make your fortune. Pretty as you are, + who knows but what some millionaire might take a fancy to you!’ + </p> + <p> + “I felt indignant. + </p> + <p> + “‘For that reason alone, if for no other,’ I exclaimed, + ‘I refuse.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You are a little fool,’ he replied. ‘If + you do not accept, you cease being in my employment. Reflect!’ + </p> + <p> + “My mind was already made up, and I was thinking of looking out for + some other occupation, when I received a note from my friend the + peace-officer, requesting me to call at his office. + </p> + <p> + “I did so, and, after kindly inviting me to a seat, + </p> + <p> + “‘Well,’ he said, ‘what is there new?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Nothing. I have noticed no one watching me.’ + </p> + <p> + “He looked annoyed. + </p> + <p> + “‘My agents have not detected any thing, either,’ he + grumbled. ‘And yet it is evident that your enemies cannot have + given it up so. They are sharp ones: if they keep quiet, it is + because they are preparing some good trick. What it is I must and + shall find out. Already I have an idea which would be an excellent + one, if I could discover some way of throwing you among what is called + good society.’ + </p> + <p> + “I explained to him, that, being employed at Van Klopen’s, I had an + opportunity to see there many ladies of the best society. + </p> + <p> + “‘That is not enough,’ he said. + </p> + <p> + “Then M. Van Klopen’s propositions came back to my mind, and I + stated them to him. + </p> + <p> + “‘Just the thing!’ he exclaimed, starting upon his + chair: ‘a manifest proof that luck is with us. You must + accept.’ + </p> + <p> + “I felt bound to tell him my objections, which reflection had much + increased. + </p> + <p> + “‘I know but too well,’ I said, ‘what must happen + if I accept this odious duty. Before I have been four times to the + Bois, I shall be noticed, and every one will imagine that they know for + what purpose I come there. I shall be assailed with vile offers. + True, I have no fears for myself. I shall always be better guarded + by my pride than by the most watchful of parents. But my reputation + will be lost.’ + </p> + <p> + “I failed to convince him. + </p> + <p> + “‘I know very well that you are an honest girl,’ he said + to me; ‘but, for that very reason, what do you care what all these + people will think, whom you do not know? Your future is at stake. + I repeat it, you must accept.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘If you command me to do so,’ I said. + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes, I command you; and I’ll explain to you why.’” + </p> + <p> + For the first time, Mlle. Lucienne manifested some reticence, and omitted + to repeat the explanations of the peace-officer. And, after a few + moments’ pause, + </p> + <p> + “You know the rest, neighbor,” she said, “since you have + seen me yourself in that inept and ridiculous role of living + advertisement, of fashionable lay-figure; and the result has been just as + I expected. Can you find any one who believes in my honesty of + purpose? You have heard Mme. Fortin to-night? Yourself, + neighbor —what did you take me for? And yet you should have + noticed something of my suffering and my humiliation the day that you were + watching me so closely in the Bois de Boulogne.” + </p> + <p> + “What!” exclaimed Maxence with a start, “you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Have I not just told you that I always fear being watched and + followed, and that I am always on the lookout? Yes, I know that you + tried to discover the secret of my rides.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence tried to excuse himself. + </p> + <p> + “That will do for the present,” she uttered. “You + wish to be my friend, you say? Now that you know my whole life + almost as well as I do myself, reflect, and to-morrow you will tell me the + result of your thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon she went out. + </p> + <h2> + XXVIII + </h2> + <p> + For about a minute Maxence remained stupefied at this sudden denouement; + and, when he had recovered his presence of mind and his voice, Mlle. + Lucienne had disappeared, and he could hear her bolting her door, and + striking a match against the wall. + </p> + <p> + He might also have thought that he was awaking from a dream, had he not + had, to attest the reality, the vague perfume which filled his room, and + the light shawl, which Mlle. Lucienne wore as she came in, and which she + had forgotten, on a chair. + </p> + <p> + The night was almost ended: six o’clock had just struck. Still + he did not feel in the least sleepy. His head was heavy, his temples + throbbing, his eyes smarting. Opening his window, he leaned out to + breathe the morning air. The day was dawning pale and cold. A + furtive and livid light glanced along the damp walls of the narrow court + of the Hotel des Folies, as at the bottom of a well. Already arose + those confused noises which announce the waking of Paris, and above which + can be heard the sonorous rolling of the milkmen’s carts, the loud + slamming of doors, and the sharp sound of hurrying steps on the hard + pavement. + </p> + <p> + But soon Maxence felt a chill coming over him. He closed the window, + threw some wood in the chimney, and stretched himself on his chair, his + feet towards the fire. It was a most serious event which had just + occurred in his existence; and, as much as he could, he endeavored to + measure its bearings, and to calculate its consequences in the future. + </p> + <p> + He kept thinking of the story of that strange girl, her haughty frankness + when unrolling certain phases of her life, of her wonderful impassibility, + and of the implacable contempt for humanity which her every word betrayed. + Where had she learned that dignity, so simple and so noble, that measured + speech, that admirable respect of herself, which had enabled her to pass + through so much filth without receiving a stain? + </p> + <p> + “What a woman!” he thought. + </p> + <p> + Before knowing her, he loved her. Now he was convulsed by one of + those exclusive passions which master the whole being. Already he + felt himself so much under the charm, subjugated, dominated, fascinated; + he understood so well that he was going to cease being his own master; + that his free will was about escaping from him; that he would be in Mlle. + Lucienne’s hands like wax under the modeler’s fingers; he saw himself so + thoroughly at the discretion of an energy superior to his own, that he was + almost frightened. + </p> + <p> + “It’s my whole future that I am going to risk,” he thought. + </p> + <p> + And there was no middle path. Either he must fly at once, without + waiting for Mlle. Lucienne to awake, fly without looking behind, or else + stay, and then accept all the chances of an incurable passion for a woman + who, perhaps, might never care for him. And he remained wavering, + like the traveler who finds himself at the intersection of two roads, and, + knowing that one leads to the goal, and the other to an abyss, hesitates + which to take. + </p> + <p> + With this difference, however, that if the traveler errs, and discovers + his error, he is always free to retrace his steps; whereas man, in life, + can never return to his starting-point. Every step he takes is + final; and if he has erred, if he has taken the fatal road, there is no + remedy. + </p> + <p> + “Well, no matter!” exclaimed Maxence. “It shall + not be said that through cowardice I have allowed that happiness to escape + which passes within my reach. I shall stay.” And at once + he began to examine what reasonably he might expect; for there was no + mistaking Mlle. Lucienne’s intentions. When she had said, “Do + you wish to be friends?” she had meant exactly that, and nothing + else,—friends, and only friends. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” thought Maxence, “if I had not inspired her + with a real interest, would she have so wholly confided unto me? She + is not ignorant of the fact that I love her; and she knows life too well + to suppose that I will cease to love her when she has allowed me a certain + amount of intimacy.” + </p> + <p> + His heart filled with hope at the idea. + </p> + <p> + “My mistress,” he thought, “never, evidently, but my + wife. Why not?” + </p> + <p> + But the very next moment he became a prey to the bitterest discouragement. + He thought that perhaps Mlle. Lucienne might have some capital interest in + thus making a confidant of him. She had not told him the explanation + given her by the peace-officer. Had she not, perhaps, succeeded in + lifting a corner of the veil which covered the secret of her birth? + Was she on the track of her enemies? and had she discovered the motive of + their animosity? + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible,” thought Maxence, “that I should be but + one of the powers in the game she is playing? How do I know, that, + if she wins, she will not cast me off?” + </p> + <p> + In the midst of these thoughts, he had gradually fallen asleep, murmuring + to the last the name of Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + The creaking of his opening door woke him up suddenly. He started to + his feet, and met Mlle. Lucienne coming in. + </p> + <p> + “How is this?” said she. “You did not go to bed?” + </p> + <p> + “You recommended me to reflect,” he replied. “I’ve + been reflecting.” + </p> + <p> + He looked at his watch: it was twelve o’clock. + </p> + <p> + “Which, however,” he added, “did not keep me from going + to sleep.” + </p> + <p> + All the doubts that besieged him at the moment when he had been overcome + by sleep now came back to his mind with painful vividness. + </p> + <p> + “And not only have I been sleeping,” he went on, “but I + have been dreaming too.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne fixed upon him her great black eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Can you tell me your dream?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + He hesitated. Had he had but one minute to reflect, perhaps he would + not have spoken; but he was taken unawares. + </p> + <p> + “I dreamed,” he replied, “that we were friends in the + noblest and purest acceptance of that word. Intelligence, heart, + will, all that I am, and all that I can,—I laid every thing at your + feet. You accepted the most entire devotion, the most respectful and + the most tender that man is capable of. Yes, we were friends indeed; + and upon a glimpse of love, never expressed, I planned a whole future of + love.” He stopped. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Well, when my hopes seemed on the point of being realized, it + happened that the mystery of your birth was suddenly revealed to you. + You found a noble, powerful, and wealthy family. You resumed the + illustrious name of which you had been robbed; your enemies were crushed; + and your rights were restored to you. It was no longer Van Klopen’s + hired carriage that stopped in front of the Hotel des Folies, but a + carriage bearing a gorgeous coat of arms. That carriage was yours; + and it came to take you to your own residence in the Faubourg St. Germain, + or to your ancestral manor.” + </p> + <p> + “And yourself?” inquired the girl. + </p> + <p> + Maxence repressed one of those nervous spasms which frequently break out + in tears, and, with a gloomy look, + </p> + <p> + “I,” he answered, “standing on the edge of the pavement, + I waited for a word or a look from you. You had forgotten my very + existence. Your coachman whipped his horses; they started at a + gallop; and soon I lost sight of you. And then a voice, the + inexorable voice of fate, cried to me, ‘Never more shalt thou see + her!’” + </p> + <p> + With a superb gesture Mlle. Lucienne drew herself up. + </p> + <p> + “It is not with your heart, I trust, that you judge me, M. Maxence + Favoral,” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + He trembled lest he had offended her. + </p> + <p> + “I beseech you,” he began. + </p> + <p> + But she went on in a voice vibrating with emotion, + </p> + <p> + “I am not of those who basely deny their past. Your dream will + never be realized. Those things are only seen on the stage. If + it did realize itself, however, if the carriage with the coat-of-arms did + come to the door, the companion of the evil days, the friend who offered + me his month’s salary to pay my debt, would have a seat by my side.” + </p> + <p> + That was more happiness than Maxence would have dared to hope for. + He tried, in order to express his gratitude, to find some of those words + which always seem to be lacking at the most critical moments. But he + was suffocating; and the tears, accumulated by so many successive + emotions, were rising to his eyes. + </p> + <p> + With a passionate impulse, he seized Mlle. Lucienne’s hand, and, taking it + to his lips, he covered it with kisses. Gently but resolutely she + withdrew her hand, and, fixing upon him her beautiful clear gaze, + </p> + <p> + “Friends,” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + Her accent alone would have been sufficient to dissipate the presumptuous + illusions of Maxence, had he had any. But he had none. + </p> + <p> + “Friends only,” he replied, “until the day when you + shall be my wife. You cannot forbid me to hope. You love no + one?” + </p> + <p> + “No one.” + </p> + <p> + “Well since we are going to tread the path of life, let me think + that we may find love at some turn of the road.” + </p> + <p> + She made no answer. And thus was sealed between them a treaty of + friendship, to which they were to remain so strictly faithful, that the + word “love” never once rose to their lips. + </p> + <p> + In appearance there was no change in their mode of life. + </p> + <p> + Every morning, at seven o’clock, Mlle. Lucienne went to M. Van Klopen’s, + and an hour later Maxence started for his office. They returned home + at night, and spent their evenings together by the fireside. + </p> + <p> + But what was easy to foresee now took place. + </p> + <p> + Weak and undecided by nature, Maxence began very soon to feel the + influence of the obstinate and energetic character of the girl. She + infused, as it were, in his veins, a warmer and more generous blood. + Gradually she imbued him with her ideas, and from her own will gave him + one. + </p> + <p> + He had told her in all sincerity his history, the miseries of his home, M. + Favoral’s parsimony and exaggerated severity, his mother’s resigned + timidity, and Mlle. Gilberte’s resolute nature. + </p> + <p> + He had concealed nothing of his past life, of his errors and his follies, + confessing even the worst of his actions; as, for instance, having abused + his mother’s and sister’s affection to extort from them all the money they + earned. + </p> + <p> + He had admitted to her that it was only with great reluctance and under + pressure of necessity, that he worked at all; that he was far from being + rich; that although he took his dinner with his parents, his salary barely + sufficed for his wants; and that he had debts. + </p> + <p> + He hoped, however, he added, that it would not be always thus, and that, + sooner or later, he would see the termination of all this misery and + privation; for his father had at least fifty thousand francs a year and + some day he must be rich. + </p> + <p> + Far from smiling, Mlle. Lucienne frowned at such a prospect. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! your father is a millionaire, is he?” she interrupted. + “Well, I understand now how, at twenty-five, after refusing all the + positions which have been offered to you, you have no position. You + relied on your father, instead of relying on yourself. Judging that + he worked hard enough for two, you bravely folded your arms, waiting for + the fortune which he is amassing, and which you seem to consider yours.” + </p> + <p> + Such morality seemed a little steep to Maxence. “I think,” + he began, “that, if one is the son of a rich man—” + </p> + <p> + “One has the right to be useless, I suppose?” added the girl. + </p> + <p> + “I do not mean that; but—” + </p> + <p> + “There is no but about it. And the proof that your views are + wrong, is that they have brought you where you are, and deprived you of + your own free will. To place one’s self at the mercy of another, be + that other your own father, is always silly; and one is always at the + mercy of the man from whom he expects money that he has not earned. + Your father would never have been so harsh, had he not believed that you + could not do without him.” + </p> + <p> + He wanted to discuss: she stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish the proof that you are at M. Favoral’s mercy?” + she said. “Very well. You spoke of marrying me.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, if you were willing!” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. Go and speak of it to your father.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose—” + </p> + <p> + “You don’t suppose any thing at all: you are absolutely + certain that he will refuse you his consent.” + </p> + <p> + “I could do without it.” + </p> + <p> + “I admit that you could. But do you know what he would do + then? He would arrange things in such a way that you would never get + a centime of his fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had never thought of that. + </p> + <p> + “Therefore,” the young girl went on gayly, “though there + is as yet no question of marriage, learn to secure your independence; that + is, the means of living. And to that effect let us work.” + </p> + <p> + It was from that moment, that Mme. Favoral had noticed in her son the + change that had surprised her so much. + </p> + <p> + Under the inspiration, under the impulsion, of Mlle. Lucienne, Maxence had + been suddenly taken with a zeal for work, and a desire to earn money, of + which he could not have been suspected. + </p> + <p> + He was no longer late at his office, and had not, at the end of each + month, ten or fifteen francs’ fines to pay. + </p> + <p> + Every morning, as soon as she was up, Mlle. Lucienne came to knock at his + door. “Come, get up!” she cried to him. + </p> + <p> + And quick he jumped out of bed and dressed, so that he might bid her + good-morning before she left. + </p> + <p> + In the evening, the last mouthful of his dinner was hardly swallowed, + before he began copying the documents which he procured from M. + Chapelain’s successor. + </p> + <p> + And often he worked quite late in the night whilst by his side Mlle. + Lucienne applied herself to some work of embroidery. + </p> + <p> + The girl was the cashier of the association; and she administered the + common capital with such skillful and such scrupulous economy, that + Maxence soon succeeded in paying off his creditors. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” she was saying at the end of December, “that, + between us, we have earned over six hundred francs this month?” + </p> + <p> + On Sundays only, after a week of which not a minute had been lost, they + indulged in some little recreation. + </p> + <p> + If the weather was not too bad, they went out together, dined in some + modest restaurant, and finished the day at the theatre. + </p> + <p> + Having thus a common existence, both young, free, and having their rooms + divided only by a narrow passage it was difficult that people should + believe in the innocence of their intercourse. The proprietors of + the Hotel des Folies believed nothing of the kind; and they were not alone + in that opinion. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne having continued to show herself in the Bois on the + afternoons when the weather was fine, the number of fools who annoyed her + with their attentions had greatly increased. Among the most + obstinate could be numbered M. Costeclar, who was pleased to declare, upon + his word of honor, that he had lost his sleep, and his taste for business, + since the day when, together with M. Saint Pavin, he had first seen Mlle. + Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + The efforts of his valet, and the letters which he had written, having + proved useless, M. Costeclar had made up his mind to act in person; and + gallantly he had come to put himself on guard in front of the Hotel des + Folies. + </p> + <p> + Great was his surprise, when he saw Mlle. Lucienne coming out arm in arm + with Maxence; and greater still was his spite. + </p> + <p> + “That girl is a fool,” he thought, “to prefer to me a + fellow who has not two hundred francs a month to spend. But never + mind! He laughs best who laughs last.” + </p> + <p> + And, as he was a man fertile in expedients, he went the next day to take a + walk in the neighborhood of the Mutual Credit; and, having met M. Favoral + by chance, he told him how his son Maxence was ruining himself for a young + lady whose toilets were a scandal, insinuating delicately that it was his + duty, as the head of the family, to put a stop to such a thing. + </p> + <p> + This was precisely the time when Maxence was endeavoring to obtain a + situation in the office of the Mutual Credit. + </p> + <p> + It is true that the idea was not original with him, and that he had even + vehemently rejected it, when, for the first time, Mlle. Lucienne had + suggested it. + </p> + <p> + “What!” had he exclaimed, “be employed in the same + establishment as my father? Suffer at the office the same + intolerable despotism as at home? I’d rather break stones on the + roads.” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Lucienne was not the girl to give up so easily a project + conceived and carefully matured by herself. + </p> + <p> + She returned to the charge with that infinite art of women, who understand + so marvelously well how to turn a position which they cannot carry in + front. She kept the matter so well before him, she spoke of it so + often and so much, on every occasion, and under all pretexts, that he + ended by persuading himself that it was the only reasonable and practical + thing he could do, the only way in which he had any chance of making his + fortune; and so, one evening overcoming his last hesitations, + </p> + <p> + “I am going to speak about it to my father,” he said to Mlle. + Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + But whether he had been influenced by M. Costeclar’s insinuations, or for + some other reason, M. Favoral had rejected indignantly his son’s request, + saying that it was impossible to trust a young man who was ruining himself + for the sake of a miserable creature. + </p> + <p> + Maxence had become crimson with rage on hearing the woman spoken of thus, + whom he loved to madness, and who, far from ruining him, was making him. + </p> + <p> + He returned to the Hotel des Folies in an indescribable state of + exasperation. + </p> + <p> + “There’s the result,” he said to Mlle. Lucienne, “of the + step which you have urged me so strongly to take.” + </p> + <p> + She seemed neither surprised nor irritated. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” she replied simply. + </p> + <p> + But Maxence could not resign himself so quietly to such a cruel + disappointment; and, not having the slightest suspicion of Costeclar’s + doings, + </p> + <p> + “And such is,” he added, “the result of all the gossip + of these stupid shop-keepers who run to see you every time you go out in + the carriage.” + </p> + <p> + The girl shrugged her shoulders contemptuously. “I expected + it,” she said, “the day when I accepted M. Van Klopen’s + offers.” + </p> + <p> + “Everybody believes that you are my mistress.” + </p> + <p> + “What matters it, since it is not so?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence did not dare to confess that this was precisely what made him + doubly angry; and he shuddered at the thought of the ridicule that would + certainly be heaped upon him, if the true state of the case was known. + </p> + <p> + “We ought to move,” he suggested. + </p> + <p> + “What’s the use? Wherever we should go, it would be the same + thing. Besides, I don’t want to leave this neighborhood.” + </p> + <p> + “And I am too much your friend not to tell you, that your reputation + in it is absolutely lost.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no accounts to render to any one.” + </p> + <p> + “Except to your friend the commissary of police, however.” + </p> + <p> + A pale smile flitted upon her lips. “Ah!” she uttered, + “he knows the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “You have seen him again, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Several times.” + </p> + <p> + “Since we have known each other?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And you never told me anything about it?” + </p> + <p> + “I did not think it necessary.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence insisted no more; but, by the sharp pang that he felt, he realized + how dear Mlle. Lucienne had become to him. + </p> + <p> + “She has secrets from me,” thought he,—“from me + who would deem it a crime to have any from her.” + </p> + <p> + What secrets? Had she concealed from him that she was pursuing an + object which had become, as it were, that of her whole life. Had she + not told him, that with the assistance of her friend the peace-officer, + who had now become commissary of police of the district, she hoped to + penetrate the mystery of her birth, and to revenge herself on the + villains, who, three times, had attempted to do away with her? + </p> + <p> + She had never mentioned her projects again; but it was evident that she + had not abandoned them, for she would at the same time have given up her + rides to the bois, which were to her an abominable torment. + </p> + <p> + But passion can neither reason nor discuss. + </p> + <p> + “She mistrusts me, who would give my life for hers,” repeated + Maxence. + </p> + <p> + And the idea was so painful to him, that he resolved to clear his doubts + at any cost, preferring the worst misery to the anxiety which was gnawing + at his heart. + </p> + <p> + And as soon as he found himself alone with Mlle. Lucienne, arming himself + with all his courage, and looking her straight in the eyes, + </p> + <p> + “You never speak to me any more of your enemies?” he said. + </p> + <p> + She doubtless understood what was passing within him. + </p> + <p> + “It’s because I don’t hear any thing of them myself,” she + answered gently. + </p> + <p> + “Then you have given up your purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all.” + </p> + <p> + “What are your hopes, then, and what are your prospects?” + </p> + <p> + “Extraordinary as it may seem to you, I must confess that I know + nothing about it. My friend the commissary has his plan, I am + certain; and he is following it with an indefatigable obstinacy. I + am but an instrument in his hands. I never do any thing without + consulting him; and what he advises me to do I do.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence started upon his chair. + </p> + <p> + “Was it he, then,” he said in a tone of bitter irony, “who + suggested to you the idea of our fraternal association?” + </p> + <p> + A frown appeared upon the girl’s countenance. She evidently felt + hurt by the tone of this species of interrogatory. + </p> + <p> + “At least he did not disapprove of it,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + But that answer was just evasive enough to excite Maxence’s anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “Was it from him too,” he went on, “that came the lovely + idea of having me enter the Mutual Credit?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it was from him.” + </p> + <p> + “For what purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “He did not explain.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you not tell me?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he requested me not to do so.” + </p> + <p> + From being red at the start, Maxence had now become very pale. + </p> + <p> + “And so,” he resumed, “it is that man, that + police-agent, who is the real arbiter of my fate; and if to-morrow he + commanded you to break off with me—” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne drew herself up. + </p> + <p> + “Enough!” she interrupted in a brief tone, “enough! + There is not in my whole existence a single act which would give to my + bitterest enemy the right to suspect my loyalty; and now you accuse me of + the basest treason. What have you to reproach me with? Have I + not been faithful to the pact sworn between us. Have I not always + been for you the best of comrades and the most devoted of friends? I + remained silent, because the man in whom I have the fullest confidence + requested me to do so; but he knew, that, if you questioned me, I would + speak. Did you question me? And now what more do you want? + That I should stoop to quiet the suspicions of your morbid mind? + That I do not mean to do.” + </p> + <p> + She was not, perhaps, entirely right; but Maxence was certainly wrong. + He acknowledged it, wept, implored her pardon, which was granted; and this + explanation only served to rivet more closely the fetters that bound him. + </p> + <p> + It is true, that, availing himself of the permission that had been granted + him, he kept himself constantly informed of Mlle. Lucienne’s doings. + He learnt from her that her friend the commissary had held a most minute + investigation at Louveciennes, and that the footman who went to the bois + with her was now, in reality, a detective. And at last, one day, + </p> + <p> + “My friend the commissary,” she said, “thinks he is on + the right track now.” + </p> + <h2> + XXIX + </h2> + <p> + Such was the exact situation of Maxence and Mlle. Lucienne on that + eventful Saturday evening in the month of April, 1872, when the police + came to arrest M. Vincent Favoral, on the charge of embezzlement and + forgery. + </p> + <p> + It will be remembered, how, at his mother’s request, Maxence had spent + that night in the Rue St. Gilles, and how, the next morning, unable any + longer to resist his eager desire to see Mlle. Lucienne, he had started + for the Hotel des Folies, leaving his sister alone at home. + </p> + <p> + He retired to his room, as she had requested him, and, sinking upon his + old arm-chair in a fit of the deepest distress, + </p> + <p> + “She is singing,” he murmured: “Mme. Fortin has + not told her any thing.” + </p> + <p> + And at the same moment Mlle. Lucienne had resumed her song, the words of + which reached him like a bitter raillery, + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Hope! O sweet, deceiving word! <br /> Mad indeed is + he, <br /> Who does think he can trust thee, <br /> And take thy coin can + afford. <br /> Over his door every one <br /> Will hang thee to his + sorrow, <br /> Then saying of days begone, <br /> ‘Cash to-day, + credit to-morrow!’ <br /> ‘Tis very nice to run; <br /> But to + have is better fun!” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + “What will she say,” thought Maxence, “when she learns + the horrible truth?” + </p> + <p> + And he felt a cold perspiration starting on his temples when he remembered + Mlle. Lucienne’s pride, and that honor has her only faith, the + safety-plank to which she had desperately clung in the midst of the storms + of her life. What if she should leave him, now that the name he bore + was disgraced! + </p> + <p> + A rapid and light step on the landing drew him from his gloomy thoughts. + Almost immediately, the door opened, and Mlle. Lucienne came in. + </p> + <p> + She must have dressed in haste; for she was just finishing hooking her + dress, the simplicity of which seemed studied, so marvelously did it set + off the elegance of her figure, the splendors of her waist, and the rare + perfections of her shoulders and of her neck. + </p> + <p> + A look of intense dissatisfaction could be read upon her lovely features; + but, as soon as she had seen Maxence, her countenance changed. + </p> + <p> + And, in fact, his look of utter distress, the disorder of his garments, + his livid paleness, and the sinister look of his eyes, showed plainly + enough that a great misfortune had befallen him. In a voice whose + agitation betrayed something more than the anxiety and the sympathy of a + friend, + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter? What has happened?” inquired the + girl. + </p> + <p> + “A terrible misfortune,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + He was hesitating: he wished to tell every thing at once, and knew + not how to begin. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you,” he said, “that my family was very + rich.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we have nothing left, absolutely nothing!” She + seemed to breathe more freely, and, in a tone of friendly irony, + </p> + <p> + “And it is the loss of your fortune,” she said, “that + distresses you thus?” + </p> + <p> + He raised himself painfully to his feet, and, in a low hoarse voice, + </p> + <p> + “Honor is lost too,” he uttered. + </p> + <p> + “Honor?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. My father has stolen: my father has forged!” + </p> + <p> + She had become whiter than her collar. + </p> + <p> + “Your father!” she stammered. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. For years he has been using the money that was intrusted + to him, until the deficit now amounts to twelve millions.” + </p> + <p> + “Great heavens!” + </p> + <p> + “And, notwithstanding the enormity of that sum, he was reduced, + during the latter months, to the most miserable expedients,—going + from door to door in the neighborhood, soliciting deposits, until he + actually basely swindled a poor newspaper-vender out of five hundred + francs.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is madness! And how did you find out?” + </p> + <p> + “Last night they came to arrest him. Fortunately we had been + notified; and I helped him to escape through a window of my sister’s room, + which opens on the yard of an adjoining house.” + </p> + <p> + “And where is he now?” + </p> + <p> + “Who knows?” + </p> + <p> + “Had he any money?” + </p> + <p> + “Everybody thinks that he carries off millions. I do not + believe it. He even refused to take the few thousand francs which M. + de Thaller had brought him to facilitate his flight.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne shuddered. + </p> + <p> + “Did you see M. de Thaller?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “He got to the house a few moments in advance of the commissary of + police; and a terrible scene took place between him and my father.” + </p> + <p> + “What was he saying?” + </p> + <p> + “That my father had ruined him.” + </p> + <p> + “And your father?” + </p> + <p> + “He stammered incoherent phrases. He was like a man who has + received a stunning blow. But we have discovered incredible things. + My father, so austere and so parsimonious at home, led a merry life + elsewhere, spending money without stint. It was for a woman that he + robbed.” + </p> + <p> + “And—do you know who that woman is?” + </p> + <p> + “No. But I can find out from the writer of the article in this + paper, who says that he knows her. See!” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne took the paper which Maxence was holding out to her: + but she hardly condescended to look at it. + </p> + <p> + “But what’s your idea now?” + </p> + <p> + “I do not believe that my father is innocent; but I believe that + there are people more guilty than he,—skillful and prudent knaves, + who have made use of him as a man of straw,—villains who will + quietly digest their share of the millions (the biggest one, of course), + while he will be sent to prison.” + </p> + <p> + A fugitive blush colored Mlle. Lucienne’s cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “That being the case,” she interrupted, “what do you + expect to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Avenge my father, if possible, and discover his accomplices, if he + has any.” + </p> + <p> + She held out her hand to him. + </p> + <p> + “That’s right,” she said. “But how will you go + about it?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know yet. At any rate, I must first of all run to the + newspaper office, and get that woman’s address.” + </p> + <p> + But Mlle. Lucienne stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “No,” she uttered: “it isn’t there that you must + go. You must come with me to see my friend the commissary.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence received this suggestion with a gesture of surprise, almost of + terror. + </p> + <p> + “Why, how can you think of such a thing?” he exclaimed. + “My father is fleeing from justice; and you want me to take for my + confidant a commissary of police,—the very man whose duty it is to + arrest him, if he can find him!” + </p> + <p> + But he interrupted himself for a moment, staring and gaping, as if the + truth had suddenly flashed upon his mind in dazzling evidence. + </p> + <p> + “For my father has not gone abroad,” he went on. “It + is in Paris that he is hiding: I am sure of it. You have seen + him?” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne really thought that Maxence was losing his mind. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen your father—I?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, last evening. How could I have forgotten it? While + you were waiting for me down stairs, between eleven and half-past eleven a + middle-aged man, thin, wearing a long overcoat, came and asked for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I remember.” + </p> + <p> + “He spoke to you in the yard.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a fact.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he tell you?” + </p> + <p> + She hesitated for a moment, evidently trying to tax her memory; then, + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” she replied, “that he had not already said + before the Fortins; that he wanted to see you on important business, and + was sorry not to find you in. What surprised me, though, is, that he + was speaking as if he knew me, and knew that I was a friend of yours.” + Then, striking her forehead, + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you are right,” she went on. “Perhaps + that man was indeed your father. Wait a minute. Yes, he seemed + quite excited, and at every moment he looked around towards the door. + He said it would be impossible for him to return, but that he would write + to you, and that probably he would require your assistance and your + services.” + </p> + <p> + “You see,” exclaimed Maxence, almost crazy with subdued + excitement, “it was my father. He is going to write; to + return, perhaps; and, under the circumstances, to apply to a commissary of + police would be sheer folly, almost treason.” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “So much the more reason,” she uttered, “why you should + follow my advice. Have you ever had occasion to repent doing so?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but you may be mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + She expressed herself in a tone of such absolute certainty, that Maxence, + in the disorder of his mind, was at a loss to know what to imagine, what + to believe. + </p> + <p> + “You must have some reason to urge me thus,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I have.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not tell it to me then?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I should have no proofs to furnish you of my assertions. + Because I should have to go into details which you would not understand. + Because, above all, I am following one of those inexplicable presentiments + which never deceive.” + </p> + <p> + It was evident that she was not willing to unveil her whole mind; and yet + Maxence felt himself terribly staggered. + </p> + <p> + “Think of my agony,” he said, “if I were to cause my + father’s arrest.” + </p> + <p> + “Would my own be less? Can any misfortune strike you without + reaching me? Let us reason a little. What were you saying a + moment since? That certainly your father is not as guilty as people + think; at any rate, that he is not alone guilty; that he has been but the + instrument of rascals more skillful and more powerful than himself; and + that he has had but a small share of the twelve millions?” + </p> + <p> + “Such is my absolute conviction.” + </p> + <p> + “And that you would like to deliver up to justice the villains who + have benefitted by your father’s crime, and who think themselves sure of + impunity?” + </p> + <p> + Tears of anger fell from Maxence’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish to take away all my courage?” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + “No; but I wish to demonstrate to you the necessity of the step + which I advise you to take. The end justifies the means; and we have + not the choice of means. Come, ‘tis to an honest man and a tried + friend that I shall take you. Fear nothing. If he remembers + that he is commissary of police, it will be to serve us, not to injure + you. You hesitate? Perhaps at this moment he already knows + more than we do ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence took a sudden resolution. + </p> + <p> + “Very well,” he said: “let us go.” + </p> + <p> + In less than five minutes they were off; and, as they went out, they had + to disturb Mme. Fortin, who stood at the door, gossiping with two or three + of the neighboring shop-keepers. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Maxence and Mlle. Lucienne were out of hearing, + </p> + <p> + “You see that young man,” said the honorable proprietress of + the Hotel des Folies to her interlocutors. “Well, he is the + son of that famous cashier who has just run off with twelve millions, + after ruining a thousand families. It don’t seem to trouble him, + either; for there he is, going out to spend a pleasant day with his + mistress, and to treat her to a fine dinner with the old man’s money.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime, Maxence and Lucienne reached the commissary’s house. He + was at home; they walked in. And, as soon as they appeared, + </p> + <p> + “I expected you,” he said. + </p> + <p> + He was a man already past middle age, but active and vigorous still. + With his white cravat and long frock-coat, he looked like a notary. + Benign was the expression of his countenance; but the lustre of his little + gray eyes, and the mobility of his nostrils, showed that it should not be + trusted too far. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I expected you,” he repeated, addressing himself as much + to Maxence as to Mlle. Lucienne. “It is the Mutual Credit + matter which brings you here?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence stepped forward, + </p> + <p> + “I am Vincent Favoral’s son, sir,” he replied. “I + have still my mother and a sister. Our situation is horrible. + Mlle. Lucienne suggested that you might be willing to give me some advice; + and here we are.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary rang, and, on the bell being answered, + </p> + <p> + “I am at home for no one,” he said. + </p> + <p> + And then turning to Maxence, + </p> + <p> + “Mlle. Lucienne did well to bring you,” he said; “for it + may be, that, whilst rendering her an important service, I may also render + you one. But I have no time to lose. Sit down, and tell me all + about it.” With the most scrupulous exactness Maxence told the + history of his family, and the events of the past twenty-four hours. + </p> + <p> + Not once did the commissary interrupt him; but, when he had done, + </p> + <p> + “Tell me your father’s interview with M. de Thaller all over again,” + he requested, “and, especially, do not omit any thing that you have + heard or seen, not a word, not a gesture, not a look.” + </p> + <p> + And, Maxence having complied, + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said the commissary, “repeat every thing your + father said at the moment of going.” + </p> + <p> + He did so. The commissary took a few notes, and then, + </p> + <p> + “What were,” he inquired, “the relations of your family + with the Thaller family?” + </p> + <p> + “There were none.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Neither Mme. nor Mlle. de Thaller ever visited you?” + </p> + <p> + “Never.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know the Marquis de Tregars?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence stared in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Tregars!” he repeated. “It’s the first time that + I hear that name.” + </p> + <p> + The usual clients of the commissary would have hesitated to recognize him, + so completely had he set aside his professional stiffness, so much had his + freezing reserve given way to the most encouraging kindness. + </p> + <p> + “Now, then,” he resumed, “never mind M. de Tregars: + let us talk of the woman, who, you seem to think, has been the cause of M. + Favoral’s ruin.” + </p> + <p> + On the table before him lay the paper in which Maxence had read in the + morning the terrible article headed: “Another Financial + Disaster.” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing of that woman,” he replied; “but it must + be easy to find out, since the writer of this article pretends to know.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary smiled, not having quite as much faith in newspapers as + Maxence seemed to have. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I read that,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “We might send to the office of that paper,” suggested Mlle. + Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + “I have already sent, my child.” + </p> + <p> + And, without noticing the surprise of Maxence and of the young girl, he + rang the bell, and asked whether his secretary had returned. The + secretary answered by appearing in person. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” inquired the commissary. + </p> + <p> + “I have attended to the matter, sir,” he replied. + “I saw the reporter who wrote the article in question; and, after + beating about the bush for some time, he finally confessed that he knew + nothing more than had been published, and that he had obtained his + information from two intimate friends of the cashier, M. Costeclar and M. + Saint Pavin.” + </p> + <p> + “You should have gone to see those gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “I did.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. What then?” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, M. Costeclar had just gone out. As to M. Saint + Pavin, I found him at the office of his paper, ‘The Financial Pilot.’ + He is a coarse and vulgar personage, and received me like a pickpocket. + I had even a notion to—” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind that! Go on.” + </p> + <p> + “He was closeted with another gentleman, a banker, named Jottras, of + the house of Jottras and Brother. They were both in a terrible rage, + swearing like troopers, and saying that the Favoral defalcation would ruin + them; that they had been taken in like fools, but that they were not going + to take things so easy, and they were preparing a crushing article.” + </p> + <p> + But he stopped, winking, and pointing to Maxence and Mlle. Lucienne, who + were listening as attentively as they could. + </p> + <p> + “Speak, speak!” said the commissary. “Fear + nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he went on, “M. Saint Pavin and M. Jottras + were saying that M. Favoral was only a poor dupe, but that they would know + how to find the others.” + </p> + <p> + “What others?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! they didn’t say.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “What!” he exclaimed, “you find yourself in presence of + two men furious to have been duped, who swear and threaten, and you can’t + get from them a name that you want? You are not very smart, my dear!” + </p> + <p> + And as the poor secretary, somewhat put out of countenance, looked down, + and said nothing, + </p> + <p> + “Did you at least ask them,” he resumed, “who the woman + is to whom the article refers, and whose existence they have revealed to + the reporter?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I did, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And what did they answer?” + </p> + <p> + “That they were not spies, and had nothing to say. M. Saint + Pavin added, however, that he had said it without much thought, and only + because he had once seen M. Favoral buying a three thousand francs + bracelet, and also because it seemed impossible to him that a man should + do away with millions without the aid of a woman.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary could not conceal his ill humor. + </p> + <p> + “Of course!” he grumbled. “Since Solomon said, + ‘Look for the woman’ (for it was King Solomon who first said + it), every fool thinks it smart to repeat with a cunning look that most + obvious of truths. What next?” + </p> + <p> + “M. Saint Pavin politely invited me to go to—well, not + here.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary wrote rapidly a few lines, put them in an envelope, which + he sealed with his private seal, and handed it to his secretary, saying, + </p> + <p> + “That will do. Take this to the prefecture yourself.” + And, after the secretary had gone out, + </p> + <p> + “Well, M. Maxence,” he said, “you have heard?” + Of course he had. Only Maxence was thinking much less of what he had + just heard than of the strange interest this commissary had taken in his + affairs, even before he had seen him. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he stammered, “that it is very unfortunate + the woman cannot be found.” + </p> + <p> + With a gesture full of confidence, + </p> + <p> + “Be easy,” said the commissary: “she shall be + found. A woman cannot swallow millions at that rate, without + attracting attention. Believe me, we shall find her, unless—” + </p> + <p> + He paused for a moment, and, speaking slowly and emphatically, + </p> + <p> + “Unless,” he added, “she should have behind her a very + skillful and very prudent man. Or else that she should be in a + situation where her extravagance could not have created any scandal.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne started. She fancied she understood the commissary’s + idea, and could catch a glimpse of the truth. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + But Maxence didn’t notice any thing, his mind being wholly bent upon + following the commissary’s deductions. + </p> + <p> + “Or unless,” he said, “my father should have received + almost nothing for his share of the enormous sums subtracted from the + Mutual Credit, in which case he could have given relatively but little to + that woman. M. Saint Pavin himself acknowledges that my father has + been egregiously taken in.” + </p> + <p> + “By whom?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence hesitated for a moment. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said at last, “and several friends of my + family (among whom M. Chapelain, an old lawyer) think as I do, that it is + very strange that my father should have drawn millions from the Mutual + Credit without any knowledge of the fact on the part of the manager.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, according to you, M. de Thaller must be an accomplice.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence made no answer. + </p> + <p> + “Be it so,” insisted the commissary. “I admit M. + de Thaller’s complicity; but then we must suppose that he had over your + father some powerful means of action.” + </p> + <p> + “An employer always has a great deal of influence over his + subordinates.” + </p> + <p> + “An influence sufficiently powerful to make them run the risk of the + galleys for his benefit! That is not likely. We must try and + imagine something else.” + </p> + <p> + “I am trying; but I don’t find any thing.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it is not all. How do you explain your father’s + silence when M. de Thaller was heaping upon him the most outrageous + insults?” + </p> + <p> + “My father was stunned, as it were.” + </p> + <p> + “And at the moment of escaping, if he did have any accomplices, how + is it that he did not mention their names to you, to your mother, or to + your sister?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, doubtless, he had no proofs of their complicity to offer.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you have asked him for any?” + </p> + <p> + “O sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Therefore such is not evidently the motive of his silence; and it + might better be attributed to some secret hope that he still had left.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary now had all the information, which, voluntarily or + otherwise, Maxence was able to give him. He rose, and in the kindest + tone, + </p> + <p> + “You have come,” he said to him, “to ask me for advice. + Here it is: say nothing, and wait. Allow justice and the + police to pursue their work. Whatever may be your suspicions, hide + them. I shall do for you as I would for Lucienne, whom I love as if + she were my own child; for it so happens, that, in helping you, I shall + help her.” + </p> + <p> + He could not help laughing at the astonishment, which at those words + depicted itself upon Maxence’s face; and gayly, + </p> + <p> + “You don’t understand,” he added. “Well, never + mind. It is not necessary that you should.” + </p> + <h2> + XXX + </h2> + <p> + Two o’clock struck as Mlle. Lucienne and Maxence left the office of the + commissary of police, she pensive and agitated, he gloomy and irritated. + They reached the Hotel des Folies without exchanging a word. Mme. + Fortin was again at the door, speechifying in the midst of a group with + indefatigable volubility. Indeed, it was a perfect godsend for her, + the fact of lodging the son of that cashier who had stolen twelve + millions, and had thus suddenly become a celebrity. Seeing Maxence + and Mlle. Lucienne coming, she stepped toward them, and, with her most + obsequious smile, + </p> + <p> + “Back already?” she said. + </p> + <p> + But they made no answer; and, entering the narrow corridor, they hurried + to their fourth story. As he entered his room, Maxence threw his hat + upon his bed with a gesture of impatience; and, after walking up and down + for a moment, he returned to plant himself in front of Mlle. Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” he said, “are you satisfied now?” + </p> + <p> + She looked at him with an air of profound commiseration, knowing his + weakness too well to be angry at his injustice. + </p> + <p> + “Of what should I be satisfied?” she asked gently. + </p> + <p> + “I have done what you wished me to.” + </p> + <p> + “You did what reason dictated, my friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well: we won’t quarrel about words. I have seen + your friend the commissary. Am I any better off?” + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders almost imperceptibly. + </p> + <p> + “What did you expect of him, then?” she asked. “Did + you think that he could undo what is done? Did you suppose, that, by + the sole power of his will, he would make up the deficit in the Mutual + Credit’s cash, and rehabilitate your father?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am not quite mad yet.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, could he do more than promise you his most ardent and + devoted co-operation?” + </p> + <p> + But he did not allow her to proceed. + </p> + <p> + “And how do I know,” he exclaimed, “that he is not + trifling with me? If he was sincere, why his reticence and his + enigmas? He pretends that I may rely on him, because to serve me is + to serve you. What does that mean? What connection is there + between your situation and mine, between your enemies and those of my + father? And I—I replied to all his questions like a simpleton. + Poor fool! But the man who drowns catches at straws; and I am + drowning, I am sinking, I am foundering.” + </p> + <p> + He sank upon a chair, and, hiding his face in his hands, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, how I do suffer!” he groaned. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne approached him, and in a severe tone, despite her emotion, + </p> + <p> + “Are you, then, such a coward?” she uttered. “What! + at the first misfortune that strikes you,—and this is the first real + misfortune of your life, Maxence,—you despair. An obstacle + rises, and, instead of gathering all your energy to overcome it, you sit + down and weep like a woman. Who, then, is to inspire courage in your + mother and in your sister, if you give up so?” + </p> + <p> + At the sound of these words, uttered by that voice which was all-powerful + over his soul, Maxence looked up. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, my friend,” he said. “I thank you + for reminding me of what I owe to my mother and sister. Poor women! + They are wondering, doubtless, what has become of me.” + </p> + <p> + “You must return to them,” interrupted the girl. + </p> + <p> + He got up resolutely. + </p> + <p> + “I will,” he replied. “I should be unworthy of you + if I could not raise my own energy to the level of yours.” + </p> + <p> + And, having pressed her hand, he left. But it was not by the usual + route that he reached the Rue St. Gilles. He made a long detour, so + as not to meet any of his acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + “Here you are at last,” said the servant as she opened the + door. “Madame was getting very uneasy, I can tell you. + She is in the parlor, with Mlle. Gilberte and M. Chapelain.” + </p> + <p> + It was so. After his fruitless attempt to reach M. de Thaller, M. + Chapelain had breakfasted there, and had remained, wishing, he said, to + see Maxence. And so, as soon as the young man appeared, availing + himself of the privileges of his age and his old intimacy, + </p> + <p> + “How,” said he, “dare you leave your mother and sister + alone in a house where some brutal creditor may come in at any moment?” + </p> + <p> + “I was wrong,” said Maxence, who preferred to plead guilty + rather than attempt an explanation. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t do it again then,” resumed M. Chapelain. “I + was waiting for you to say that I was unable to see M. de Thaller, and + that I do not care to face once more the impudence of his valets. + You will, therefore, have to take back the fifteen thousand francs he had + brought to your father. Place them in his own hands; and don’t give + them up without a receipt.” + </p> + <p> + After some further recommendations, he went off, leaving Mme. Favoral + alone at last with her children. She was about to call Maxence to + account for his absence, when Mlle. Gilberte interrupted her. + </p> + <p> + “I have to speak to you, mother,” she said with a singular + precipitation, “and to you also, brother.” + </p> + <p> + And at once she began telling them of M. Costeclar’s strange visit, his + inconceivable audacity, and his offensive declarations. + </p> + <p> + Maxence was fairly stamping with rage. + </p> + <p> + “And I was not here,” he exclaimed, “to put him out of + the house!” + </p> + <p> + But another was there; and this was just what Mlle. Gilberte wished to + come to. But the avowal was difficult, painful even; and it was not + without some degree of confusion that she resumed at last, + </p> + <p> + “You have suspected for a long time, mother, that I was hiding + something from you. When you questioned me, I lied; not that I had + any thing to blush for, but because I feared for you my father’s anger.” + </p> + <p> + Her mother and her brother were gazing at her with a look of blank + amazement. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I had a secret,” she continued. “Boldly, + without consulting any one, trusting the sole inspirations of my heart, I + had engaged my life to a stranger: I had selected the man whose wife + I wished to be.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral raised her hands to heaven. + </p> + <p> + “But this is sheer madness!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately,” went on the girl, “between that man, my + affianced husband before God, and myself, rose a terrible obstacle. + He was poor: he thought my father very rich; and he had asked me a + delay of three years to conquer a fortune which might enable him to aspire + to my hand.” + </p> + <p> + She stopped: all the blood in her veins was rushing to her face. + </p> + <p> + “This morning,” she said, “at the news of our disaster, + he came . . .” + </p> + <p> + “Here?” interrupted Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, brother, here. He arrived at the very moment, when, + basely insulted by M. Costeclar, I commanded him to withdraw, and, instead + of going, he was walking towards me with outstretched arms.” + </p> + <p> + “He dared to penetrate here!” murmured Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, mother: he came in just in time to seize M. Costeclar by + his coat-collar, and to throw him at my feet, livid with fear, and begging + for mercy. He came, notwithstanding the terrible calamity that has + befallen us. Notwithstanding ruin, and notwithstanding shame, he + came to offer me his name, and to tell me, that, in the course of the day, + he would send a friend of his family to apprise you of his intentions.” + </p> + <p> + Here she was interrupted by the servant, who, throwing open the + parlor-door, announced, + </p> + <p> + “The Count de Villegre.” + </p> + <p> + If it had occurred to the mind of Mme. Favoral or Maxence that Mlle. + Gilberte might have been the victim of some base intrigue, the mere + appearance of the man who now walked in must have been enough to disabuse + them. + </p> + <p> + He was of a rather formidable aspect, with his military bearing, his bluff + manners, his huge white mustache, and the deep scar across his forehead. + </p> + <p> + But in order to be re-assured, and to feel confident, it was enough to + look at his broad face, at once energetic and debonair, his clear eye, in + which shone the loyalty of his soul, and his thick red lips, which had + never opened to utter an untruth. + </p> + <p> + At this moment, however, he was hardly in possession of all his faculties. + </p> + <p> + That valiant man, that old soldier, was timid; and he would have felt much + more at ease under the fire of a battery than in that humble parlor in the + Rue St. Gilles, under the uneasy glance of Maxence and Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Having bowed, having made a little friendly sign to Mlle. Gilberte, he had + stopped short, two steps from the door, his hat in his hand. + </p> + <p> + Eloquence was not his forte. He had prepared himself well in + advance; but though he kept coughing: hum! broum! though he kept + running his finger around his shirt-collar to facilitate his delivery, the + beginning of his speech stuck in his throat. + </p> + <p> + Seeing how urgent it was to come to his assistance, + </p> + <p> + “I was expecting you, sir,” said Mlle. Gilberte. With + this encouragement, he advanced towards Mme. Favoral, and, bowing low, + </p> + <p> + “I see that my presence surprises you, madame,” he began; + “and I must confess that—hum!—it does not surprise me + less than it does you. But extraordinary circumstances require + exceptional action. On any other occasion, I would not fall upon you + like a bombshell. But we had no time to waste in ceremonious + formalities. I will, therefore, ask your leave to introduce myself: + I am General Count de Villegre.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had brought him a chair. + </p> + <p> + “I am ready to hear you, sir,” said Mme. Favoral. He sat + down, and, with a further effort, + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, madame,” he resumed, “that your daughter has + explained to you our singular situation, which, as I had the honor of + telling you—hum!—is not strictly in accordance with social + usage.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “When you came in, general, I was only just beginning to explain the + facts to my mother and brother.” + </p> + <p> + The old soldier made a gesture, and a face which showed plainly that he + did not much relish the prospect of a somewhat difficult explanation—broum! + Nevertheless, making up his mind bravely, + </p> + <p> + “It is very simple,” he said: “I come in behalf of + M. de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence fairly bounced upon his chair. That was the very name which + he had just heard mentioned by the commissary of police. + </p> + <p> + “Tregars!” he repeated in a tone of immense surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said M. de Villegre. “Do you know him, by + chance?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, no!” + </p> + <p> + “Marius de Tregars is the son of the most honest man I ever knew, of + the best friend I ever had,—of the Marquis de Tregars, in a word, + who died of grief a few years ago, after—hum!—some quite + inexplicable—broum!—reverses of fortune. Marius could + not be dearer to me, if he were my own son. He has lost his parents: + I have no relatives; and I have transferred to him all the feelings of + affection which still remained at the bottom of my old heart. + </p> + <p> + “And I can say that never was a man more worthy of affection. + I know him. To the most legitimate pride and the most scrupulous + integrity, he unites a keen and supple mind, and wit enough to get the + better of the toughest rascal. He has no fortune for the reason that—hum!—he + gave up all he had to certain pretended creditors of his father. But + whenever he wishes to be rich, he shall be; and —broum!—he may + be so before long. I know his projects, his hopes, his resources.” + </p> + <p> + But, as if feeling that he was treading on dangerous ground, the Count de + Villegre stopped short, and, after taking breath for a moment, + </p> + <p> + “In short,” he went on, “Marius has been unable to see + Mlle. Gilberte, and to appreciate the rare qualities of her heart, without + falling desperately in love with her.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral made a gesture of protest, + </p> + <p> + “Allow me, sir,” she began. + </p> + <p> + But he interrupted her. + </p> + <p> + “I understand you, madame,” he resumed. “You + wonder how M. de Tregars can have seen your daughter, have known her, and + have appreciated her, without your seeing or hearing any thing of it. + Nothing is more simple, and, if I may venture to say—hum!—more + natural.” + </p> + <p> + And the worthy old soldier began to explain to Mme. Favoral the meetings + in the Place-Royale, his conversations with Marius, intended really for + Mlle. Gilberte, and the part he had consented to play in this little + comedy. But he became embarrassed in his sentences, he multiplied + his hum! and his broum! in the most alarming manner; and his explanations + explained nothing. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Gilberte took pity on him; and, kindly interrupting him, she herself + told her story, and that of Marius. + </p> + <p> + She told the pledge they had exchanged, how they had seen each other + twice, and how they constantly heard of each other through the very + innocent and very unconscious Signor Gismondo Pulei. + </p> + <p> + Maxence and Mme. Favoral were dumbfounded. They would have + absolutely refused to believe such a story, had it not been told by Mlle. + Gilberte herself. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, my dear sister!” thought Maxence, “who could have + suspected such a thing, seeing you always so calm and so meek!” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible,” Mme. Favoral was saying to herself; “that + I can have been so blind and so deaf?” + </p> + <p> + As to the Count de Villegre, he would have tried in vain to express the + gratitude he felt towards Mlle. Gilberte for having spared him these + difficult explanations. + </p> + <p> + “I could not have done half as well myself, by the eternal!” + he thought, like a man who has no illusions on his own account. + </p> + <p> + But, as soon as she had done, addressing himself to Mme. Favoral, + </p> + <p> + “Now, madame,” he said, “you know all; and you will + understand that the irreparable disaster that strikes you has removed the + only obstacle which had hitherto stood in the way of Marius.” + </p> + <p> + He rose, and in a solemn tone, without any hum or broum, this time, + </p> + <p> + “I have the honor, madame,” he uttered, “to solicit the + hand of Mlle. Gilberte, your daughter, for my friend Yves-Marius de + Genost, Marquis de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + A profound silence followed this speech. But this silence the Count + de Villegre doubtless interpreted in his own favor; for, stepping to the + parlor-door, he opened it, and called, “Marius!” + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars had foreseen all that had just taken place, and had so + informed the Count de Villegre in advance. + </p> + <p> + Being given Mme. Favoral’s disposition, he knew what could be expected of + her; and he had his own reasons to fear nothing from Maxence. And, + if he mistrusted somewhat the diplomatic talents of his ambassador, he + relied absolutely upon Mlle. Gilberte’s energy. + </p> + <p> + And so confident was he of the correctness of his calculations, that he + had insisted upon accompanying his old friend, so as to be on hand at the + critical moment. + </p> + <p> + When the servant had opened the door to them, he had ordered her to + introduce M. de Villegre, stating that he would himself wait in the + dining-room. This arrangement had not seemed entirely natural to the + girl; but so many strange things had happened in the house for the past + twenty-four hours, that she was prepared for any thing. + </p> + <p> + Besides recognizing Marius as the gentleman who had had a violent + altercation in the morning with M. Costeclar, she did as he requested, + and, leaving him alone in the dining-room, went to attend to her duties. + </p> + <p> + He had taken a seat, impassive in appearance, but in reality agitated by + that internal trepidation of which the strongest men cannot free + themselves in the decisive moments of their life. + </p> + <p> + To a certain extent, the prospects of his whole life were to be decided on + the other side of that door which had just closed behind the Count de + Villegre. To the success of his love, other interests were united, + which required immediate success. + </p> + <p> + And, counting the seconds by the beatings of his heart, + </p> + <p> + “How very slow they are!” he thought. + </p> + <p> + And so, when the door opened at last, and his old friend called him, he + jumped to his feet, and collecting all his coolness and self-possession, + he walked in. + </p> + <p> + Maxence had risen to receive him; but, when he saw him, he stepped back, + his eyes glaring in utter surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, great heavens!” he muttered in a smothered voice. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars seemed not to notice his stupor. Quite + self-possessed, notwithstanding his emotion, he cast a rapid glance over + the Count de Villegre, Mme. Favoral and Mlle. Gilberte. At their + attitude, and at the expression of their countenance, he easily guessed + the point to which things had come. + </p> + <p> + And, advancing towards Mme. Favoral, he bowed with an amount of respect + which was certainly not put on. + </p> + <p> + “You have heard the Count de Villegre, madame,” he said in a + slightly altered tone of voice. “I am awaiting my fate.” + </p> + <p> + The poor woman had never before in all her life been so fearfully + perplexed. All these events, which succeeded each other so rapidly, + had broken the feeble springs of her soul. She was utterly incapable + of collecting her thoughts, or of taking a determination. + </p> + <p> + “At this moment, sir,” she stammered, taken unawares, “it + would be impossible for me to answer you. Grant me a few days for + reflection. We have some old friends whom I ought to consult.” + </p> + <p> + But Maxence, who had got over his stupor, interrupted her. + </p> + <p> + “Friends, mother!” he exclaimed. “And who are + they? People in our position have no friends. What! when we + are perishing, a man of heart holds out his hand to us, and you ask to + reflect? To my sister, who bears a name henceforth disgraced, the + Marquis de Tregars offers his name, and you think of consulting.” + </p> + <p> + The poor woman was shaking her head. + </p> + <p> + “I am not the mistress, my son,” she murmured; “and your + father—” + </p> + <p> + “My father!” interrupted the young man,—“my + father! What rights can he have over us hereafter?” And + without further discussion, without awaiting an answer, he took his + sister’s hand, and, placing it in M. de Tregars’ hand, + </p> + <p> + “Ah! take her, sir,” he uttered. “Never, whatever + she may do, will she acquit the debt of eternal gratitude which we this + day contract towards you.” + </p> + <p> + A tremor that shook their frames, a long look which they exchanged, + betrayed alone the feelings of Marius and Mlle. Gilberte. They had + of life a too cruel experience not to mistrust their joy. + </p> + <p> + Returning to Mme. Favoral, + </p> + <p> + “You do not understand, madame,” he went on, “why I + should have selected for such a step the very moment when an irreparable + calamity befalls you. One word will explain all. Being in a + position to serve you, I wished to acquire the right of doing so.” + </p> + <p> + Fixing upon him a look in which the gloomiest despair could be read, + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” stammered the poor woman, “what can you do for + me, sir? My life is ended. I have but one wish left,—that + of knowing where my husband is hid. It is not for me to judge him. + He has not given me the happiness which I had, perhaps, the right to + expect; but he is my husband, he is unhappy: my duty is to join him + wherever he may be, and to share his sufferings.” + </p> + <p> + She was interrupted by the servant, who was calling her at the + parlor-door, “Madame, madame!” + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” inquired Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “I must speak to madame at once.” + </p> + <p> + Making an effort to rise and walk, Mme. Favoral went out. She was + gone but a minute; and, when she returned, her agitation had further + increased. “It is the hand of Providence, perhaps,” she + said. The others were all looking at her anxiously. She took a + seat, and, addressing herself more especially to M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “This is what happens,” she said in a feeble voice. + “M. Favoral was in the habit of always changing his coat as + soon as he came home. As usual, he did so last evening. When + they came to arrest him, he forgot to change again, and went off with the + coat he had on. The other remained hanging in the room, where the + girl took it just now to brush it, and put it away; and this portfolio, + which my husband always carries with him, fell from its pocket.” + </p> + <p> + It was an old Russia leather portfolio, which had once been red, but which + time and use had turned black. It was full of papers. + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, indeed,” exclaimed Maxence, “we may find some + information there.” + </p> + <p> + He opened it, and had already taken out three-fourths of its contents + without finding any thing of any consequence, when suddenly he uttered an + exclamation. He had just opened an anonymous note, evidently written + in a disguised hand, and at one glance had read, + </p> + <p> + “I cannot understand your negligence. You should get through + that Van Klopen matter. There is the danger.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that note?” inquired M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Maxence handed it to him. + </p> + <p> + “See!” said he, “but you will not understand the immense + interest it has for me.” + </p> + <p> + But having read it, + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken,” said Marius. “I understand + perfectly; and I’ll prove it to you.” + </p> + <p> + The next moment, Maxence took out of the portfolio, and read aloud, the + following bill, dated two days before. + </p> + <p> + “Sold to —— two leather trunks with safety locks at 220 + francs each; say, francs 440.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars started. + </p> + <p> + “At last,” he said, “here is doubtless one end of the + thread which will guide us to the truth through this labyrinth of + iniquities.” + </p> + <p> + And, tapping gently on Maxence’s shoulders, + </p> + <p> + “We must talk,” he said, “and at length. + To-morrow, before you go to M. de Thaller’s with his fifteen thousand + francs, call and see me: I shall expect you. We are now + engaged upon a common work; and something tells me, that, before long, we + shall know what has become of the Mutual Credit’s millions.” + </p> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><a name="linkpart2" id="linkpart2"></a> <br /> + </p> + <h1> + PART II. + </h1> + <h2> + FISHING IN TROUBLED WATERS. + </h2> + <h2> + I + </h2> + <p> + “When I think,” said Coleridge, “that every morning, in + Paris alone, thirty thousand fellows wake up, and rise with the fixed and + settled idea of appropriating other people’s money, it is with renewed + wonder that every night, when I go home, I find my purse still in my + pocket.” + </p> + <p> + And yet it is not those who simply aim to steal your portemonnaie who are + either the most dishonest or the most formidable. + </p> + <p> + To stand at the corner of some dark street, and rush upon the first man + that comes along, demanding, “Your money or your life,” is but + a poor business, devoid of all prestige, and long since given up to + chivalrous natures. + </p> + <p> + A man must be something worse than a simpleton to still ply his trade on + the high-roads, exposed to all sorts of annoyances on the part of the + gendarmes, when manufacturing and financial enterprises offer such a + magnificently fertile field to the activity of imaginative people. + </p> + <p> + And, in order to thoroughly understand the mode of proceeding in this + particular field, it is sufficient to open from time to time a copy of + “The Police Gazette,” and to read some trial, like that, for + instance, of one Lefurteux, ex-president of the Company for the Drainage + and Improvement of the Orne Swamps. + </p> + <p> + This took place less than a month ago in one of the police-courts. + </p> + <p> + The Judge to the Accused—Your profession? + </p> + <p> + M. Lefurteux—President of the company. + </p> + <p> + Question—Before that what were you doing? + </p> + <p> + Answer—I speculated at the bourse. + </p> + <p> + Q—You had no means? + </p> + <p> + A—I beg your pardon: I was making money. + </p> + <p> + Q—And it was under such circumstances that you had the audacity to + organize a company with a capital stock of three million of francs, + divided in shares of five hundred francs? + </p> + <p> + A—Having discovered an idea, I did not suppose that I was forbidden + to work it up. + </p> + <p> + Q—What do you call an idea? + </p> + <p> + A—The idea of draining swamps, and making them productive. + </p> + <p> + Q—What swamps? Yours never had any existence, except in your + prospectus. + </p> + <p> + A—I expected to buy them as soon as my capital was paid in. + </p> + <p> + Q—And in the mean time you promised ten per cent to your + stockholders. + </p> + <p> + A—That’s the least that draining operations ever pay. + </p> + <p> + Q—You have advertised? + </p> + <p> + A—Of course. + </p> + <p> + Q—To what extent? + </p> + <p> + A—To the extent of about sixty thousand francs. + </p> + <p> + Q—Where did you get the money? + </p> + <p> + A—I commenced with ten thousand francs, which a friend of mine had + lent me; then I used the funds as they came in. + </p> + <p> + Q—In other words, you made use of the money of your first dupes to + attract others? + </p> + <p> + A—Many people thought it was a good thing. + </p> + <p> + Q—Who? Those to whom you sent your prospectus with a plan of + your pretended swamps? + </p> + <p> + A—Excuse me. Others too. + </p> + <p> + Q—How much money did you ever receive? + </p> + <p> + A—About six hundred thousand francs, as the expert has stated. + </p> + <p> + Q—And you have spent the whole of the money? + </p> + <p> + A—Permit me? I have never applied to my personal wants + anything beyond the salary which was allowed me by the By-laws. + </p> + <p> + Q—How is it, then, that, when you were arrested, there were only + twelve hundred and fifty francs found in your safe, and that amount had + been sent you through the post-office that very morning? What has + become of the rest? + </p> + <p> + A—The rest has been spent for the good of the company. + </p> + <p> + Q—Of course! You had a carriage? + </p> + <p> + A—It was allowed to me by Article 27 of the By-laws. + </p> + <p> + Q—For the good of the company too, I suppose. + </p> + <p> + A—Certainly. I was compelled to make a certain display. + The head of an important company must endeavor to inspire confidence. + </p> + <p> + The Judge, with an Ironical Look—Was it also to inspire confidence + that you had a mistress, for whom you spent considerable sums of money? + </p> + <p> + The Accused, in a Tone of Perfect Candor—Yes, sir. + </p> + <p> + After a pause of a few moments, the judge resumes, + </p> + <p> + Q—Your offices were magnificent. They must have cost you a + great deal to furnish. + </p> + <p> + A—On the contrary, sir, almost nothing. The furniture was all + hired. You can examine the upholsterer. + </p> + <p> + The upholsterer is sent for, and in answer to the judge’s questions, + </p> + <p> + “What M. Lefurteux has stated,” he says, “is true. + My specialty is to hire office-fixtures for financial and other companies. + I furnish every thing, from the book-keepers’ desks to the furniture for + the president’s private room: from the iron safe to the servant’s + livery. In twenty-four hours, every thing is ready, and the + subscribers can come. As soon as a company is organized, like the + one in question, the officers call on me, and, according to the magnitude + of the capital required, I furnish a more or less costly establishment. + I have a good deal of experience, and I know just what’s wanted. + When M. Lefurteux came to see me, I gauged his operation at a glance. + Three millions of capital, swamps in the Orne, shares of five hundred + francs, small subscribers, anxious and noisy. + </p> + <p> + “‘Very well,’ I said to him, ‘it’s a six-months’ + job. Don’t go into useless expenses. Take reps for your + private office: that’s good enough.’” + </p> + <p> + The Judge, in a tone of Profound Surprise—You told him that? + </p> + <p> + The Upholsterer, in the Simple Accent of an Honest Man—Exactly as I + am telling your Honor. He followed my advice; and I sent him red hot + the furniture and fixtures which had been used by the River Fishery + Company, whose president had just been sent to prison for three years. + </p> + <p> + When, after such revelations, renewed from week to week, with instructive + variations, purchasers may still be found for the shares of the Tiffla + Mines, the Bretoneche Lands, and the Forests of Formanoid, is it to be + wondered that the Mutual Credit Company found numerous subscribers? + </p> + <p> + It had been admirably started at that propitious hour of the December Coup + d’Etat, when the first ideas of mutuality were beginning to penetrate the + financial world. + </p> + <p> + It had lacked neither capital nor powerful patronage at the start, and had + been at once admitted to the honor of being quoted at the bourse. + </p> + <p> + Beginning business ostensibly as an accommodation bank for manufacturers + and merchants, the Mutual Credit had had, for a number of years, a + well-determined specialty. + </p> + <p> + But gradually it had enlarged the circle of its operations, altered its + by-laws, changed its board of directors; and at the end the original + subscribers would have been not a little embarrassed to tell what was the + nature of its business, and from what sources it drew its profits. + </p> + <p> + All they knew was, that it always paid respectable dividends; that their + manager, M. de Thaller, was personally very rich; and that they were + willing to trust him to steer clear of the code. + </p> + <p> + There were some, of course, who did not view things in quite so favorable + a light; who suggested that the dividends were suspiciously large; that M. + de Thaller spent too much money on his house, his wife, his daughter, and + his mistress. + </p> + <p> + One thing is certain, that the shares of the Mutual Credit Society were + much above par, and were quoted at 580 francs on that Saturday, when, + after the closing of the bourse, the rumor had spread that the cashier, + Vincent Favoral, had run off with twelve millions. + </p> + <p> + “What a haul!” thought, not without a feeling of envy, more + than one broker, who, for merely one-twelfth of that amount would have + gayly crossed the frontier. It was almost an event in Paris. + </p> + <p> + Although such adventures are frequent enough, and not taken much notice + of, in the present instance, the magnitude of the amount more than made up + for the vulgarity of the act. + </p> + <p> + Favoral was generally pronounced a very smart man; and some persons + declared, that to take twelve millions could hardly be called stealing. + </p> + <p> + The first question asked was, + </p> + <p> + “Is Thaller in the operation? Was he in collusion with his + cashier?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the whole question.” + </p> + <p> + “If he was, then the Mutual Credit is better off than ever: + otherwise, it is gone under.” + </p> + <p> + “Thaller is pretty smart.” + </p> + <p> + “That Favoral was perhaps more so still.” + </p> + <p> + This uncertainty kept up the price for about half an hour. But soon + the most disastrous news began to spread, brought, no one knew whence or + by whom; and there was an irresistible panic. + </p> + <p> + From 425, at which price it had maintained itself for a time, the Mutual + Credit fell suddenly to 300, then 200, and finally to 150 francs. + </p> + <p> + Some friends of M. de Thaller, M. Costeclar, for instance, had endeavored + to keep up the market; but they had soon recognized the futility of their + efforts, and then they had bravely commenced doing like the rest. + </p> + <p> + The next day was Sunday. From the early morning, it was reported, + with the most circumstantial details, that the Baron de Thaller had been + arrested. + </p> + <p> + But in the evening this had been contradicted by people who had gone to + the races, and who had met there Mme. de Thaller and her daughter, more + brilliant than ever, very lively, and very talkative. To the persons + who went to speak to them, + </p> + <p> + “My husband was unable to come,” said the baroness. + “He is busy with two of his clerks, looking over that poor Favoral’s + accounts. It seems that they are in the most inconceivable + confusion. Who would ever have thought such a thing of a man who + lived on bread and nuts? But he operated at the bourse; and he had + organized, under a false name, a sort of bank, in which he has very + foolishly sunk large sums of money.” + </p> + <p> + And with a smile, as if all danger had been luckily averted, + </p> + <p> + “Fortunately,” she added, “the damage is not as great as + has been reported, and this time, again, we shall get off with a good + fright.” + </p> + <p> + But the speeches of the baroness were hardly sufficient to quiet the + anxiety of the people who felt in their coat-pockets the worthless + certificates of Mutual Credit stock. + </p> + <p> + And the next day, Monday, as early as eight o’clock, they began to arrive + in crowds to demand of M. de Thaller some sort of an explanation. + </p> + <p> + They were there, at least a hundred, huddled together in the vestibule, on + the stairs, and on the first landing, a prey to the most painful emotion + and the most violent excitement; for they had been refused admittance. + </p> + <p> + To all those who insisted upon going in, a tall servant in livery, + standing before the door, replied invariably, “The office is not + open, M. de Thaller has not yet come.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon they uttered such terrible threats and such loud imprecations, + that the frightened concierge had run, and hid himself at the very bottom + of his lodge. + </p> + <p> + No one can imagine to what epileptic contortions the loss of money can + drive an assemblage of men, who has not seen a meeting of shareholders on + the morrow of a great disaster, with their clinched fists, their convulsed + faces, their glaring eyes, and foaming lips. + </p> + <p> + They felt indignant at what had once been their delight. They laid + the blame of their ruin upon the splendor of the house, the sumptuousness + of the stairs, the candelabras of the vestibule, the carpets, the chairs, + every thing. + </p> + <p> + “And it is our money too,” they cried, “that has paid + for all that!” + </p> + <p> + Standing upon a bench, a little short man was exciting transports of + indignation by describing the magnificence of the Baron de Thaller’s + residence, where he had once had some dealings. + </p> + <p> + He had counted five carriages in the carriage-house, fifteen horses in the + stables, and Heaven knows how many servants. + </p> + <p> + He had never been inside the apartments, but he had visited the kitchen; + and he declared that he had been dazzled by the number and brightness of + the saucepans, ranged in order of size over the furnace. + </p> + <p> + Gathered in a group under the vestibule, the most sensible deplored their + rash confidence. + </p> + <p> + “That’s the way,” concluded one, “with all these + adventurous affairs.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a fact. There’s nothing, after all, like government + bonds.” + </p> + <p> + “Or a first mortgage on good property, with subrogation of the + wife’s rights.” + </p> + <p> + But what exasperated them all was not to be admitted to the presence of M. + de Thaller, and to see that servant mounting guard before the door. + </p> + <p> + “What impudence,” they growled, “to leave us on the + stairs!—we who are the masters, after all.” + </p> + <p> + “Who knows where M. de Thaller may be?” + </p> + <p> + “He is hiding, of course.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter: I will see him,” clamored a big fat man, + with a brick-colored face, “if I shouldn’t stir from here for a + week.” + </p> + <p> + “You’ll see nothing at all,” giggled his neighbor. + “Do you suppose they don’t have back-stairs and private entrances in + this infernal shop?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! if I believed any thing of the kind,” exclaimed the big + man in a voice trembling with passion. “I’d soon break in some + of these doors: it isn’t so hard, after all.” + </p> + <p> + Already he was gazing at the servant with an alarming air, when an old + gentleman with a discreet look, stepped up to him, and inquired, + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, sir: how many shares have you?” + </p> + <p> + “Three,” answered the man with the brick-colored face. + </p> + <p> + The other sighed. + </p> + <p> + “I have two hundred and fifty,” he said. “That’s + why, being at least as interested as yourself in not losing every thing, I + beg of you to indulge in no violent proceedings.” + </p> + <p> + There was no need of further speaking. + </p> + <p> + The door which the servant was guarding flew open. A clerk appeared, + and made sign that he wished to speak. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” he began, “M. de Thaller has just come; but + he is just now engaged with the examining judge.” + </p> + <p> + Shouts having drowned his voice, he withdrew precipitately. + </p> + <p> + “If the law gets its finger in,” murmured the discreet + gentleman, “good-by!” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a fact,” said another. “But we will have + the precious advantage of hearing that dear baron condemned to one year’s + imprisonment, and a fine of fifty francs. That’s the regular rate. + He wouldn’t get off so cheap, if he had stolen a loaf of bread from a + baker.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you believe that story about the judge?” interrupted + rudely the big man. + </p> + <p> + They had to believe it, when they saw him appear, followed by a commissary + of police and a porter, carrying on his back a load of books and papers. + They stood aside to let them pass; but there was no time to make any + comments, as another clerk appeared immediately who said, + </p> + <p> + “M. de Thaller is at your command, gentlemen. Please walk in.” + </p> + <p> + There was then a terrible jamming and pushing to see who would get first + into the directors’ room, which stood wide open. + </p> + <p> + M. de Thaller was standing against the mantel-piece, neither paler nor + more excited than usual, but like a man who feels sure of himself and of + his means of action. As soon as silence was restored, + </p> + <p> + “First of all, gentlemen,” he began, “I must tell you + that the board of directors is about to meet, and that a general meeting + of the stockholders will be called.” + </p> + <p> + Not a murmur. As at the touch of a magician’s wand, the dispositions + of the shareholders seemed to have changed. + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing new to inform you of,” he went on. + “What happened is a misfortune, but not a disaster. The thing + to do was to save the company; and I had first thought of calling for + funds.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said two or three timid voices, “If it was + absolutely necessary—” + </p> + <p> + “But there is no need of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ah!” + </p> + <p> + “And I can manage to carry every thing through by adding to our + reserve fund my own personal fortune.” + </p> + <p> + This time the hurrahs and the bravos drowned the voice. + </p> + <p> + M. de Thaller received them like a man who deserves them, and, more + slowly, + </p> + <p> + “Honor commanded it,” he continued. “I confess it, + gentlemen, the wretch who has so basely deceived us had my entire + confidence. You will understand my apparent blindness when you know + with what infernal skill he managed.” + </p> + <p> + Loud imprecations burst on all sides against Vincent Favoral. But + the president of the Mutual Credit proceeded, + </p> + <p> + “For the present, all I have to ask of you is to keep cool, and + continue to give me your confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes!” + </p> + <p> + “The panic of night before last was but a stock-gambling manoeuvre, + organized by rival establishments, who were in hopes of taking our clients + away from us. They will be disappointed, gentlemen. We will + triumphantly demonstrate our soundness; and we shall come out of this + trial more powerful than ever.” + </p> + <p> + It was all over. M. de Thaller understood his business. They + offered him a vote of thanks. A smile was beaming upon the same + faces that were a moment before contracted with rage. + </p> + <p> + One stockholder alone did not seem to share the general enthusiasm: + he was no other than our old friend, M. Chapelain, the ex-lawyer. + </p> + <p> + “That fellow, Thaller, is just capable of getting himself out of the + scrape,” he grumbled. “I must tell Maxence.” + </p> + <h2> + II + </h2> + <p> + We have every species of courage in France, and to a superior degree, + except that of braving public opinion. Few men would have dared, + like Marius de Tregars, to offer their name to the daughter of a wretch + charged with embezzlement and forgery, and that at the very moment when + the scandal of the crime was at its height. But, when Marius judged + a thing good and just, he did it without troubling himself in the least + about what others would think. And so his mere presence in the Rue. + St. Gilles had brought back hope to its inmates. Of his designs he + had said but a word,—“I have the means of helping you: I + mean, by marrying Gilberte, to acquire the right of doing so.” + </p> + <p> + But that word had been enough. Mme. Favoral and Maxence had + understood that the man who spoke thus was one of those cool and resolute + men whom nothing disconcerts or discourages, and who knows how to make the + best of the most perilous situations. + </p> + <p> + And, when he had retired with the Count de Villegre, + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what he will do,” said Mlle. Gilberte to her + mother and her brother: “but he will certainly do something; + and, if it is humanly possible to succeed, he will succeed.” + </p> + <p> + And how proudly she spoke thus! The assistance of Marius was the + justification of her conduct. She trembled with joy at the thought + that it would, perhaps, be to the man whom she had alone and boldly + selected, that her family would owe their salvation. Shaking his + head, and making allusion to events of which he kept the secret, + </p> + <p> + “I really believe,” approved Maxence, “that, to reach + the enemies of our father, M. de Tregars possesses some powerful means; + and what they are we will doubtless soon know, since I have an appointment + with him for to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + It came at last, that morrow, which he had awaited with an impatience that + neither his mother nor his sister could suspect. And towards + half-past nine he was ready to go out, when M. Chapelain came in. + Still irritated by the scenes he had just witnessed at the Mutual Credit + office, the old lawyer had a most lugubrious countenance. + </p> + <p> + “I bring bad news,” he began. “I have just seen + the Baron de Thaller.” + </p> + <p> + He had said so much the day before about having nothing more to do with + it, that Maxence could not repress a gesture of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! it isn’t alone that I saw him,” added M. Chapelain, + “but together with at least a hundred stockholders of the Mutual + Credit.” + </p> + <p> + “They are going to do something, then?” + </p> + <p> + “No: they only came near doing something. You should + have seen them this morning! They were furious; they threatened to + break every thing; they wanted M. de Thaller’s blood. It was + terrible. But M. de Thaller condescended to receive them; and they + became at once as meek as lambs. It is perfectly simple. What + do you suppose stockholders can do, no matter how exasperated they may be, + when their manager tells them? + </p> + <p> + “‘Well, yes, it’s a fact you have been robbed, and your money + is in great jeopardy; but if you make any fuss, if you complain thus, all + is sure to be lost.’ Of course, the stockholders keep quiet. + It is a well-known fact that a business which has to be liquidated through + the courts is gone; and swindled stockholders fear the law almost as much + as the swindling manager. A single fact will make the situation + clearer to you. Less than an hour ago, M. de Thaller’s stockholders, + offered him money to make up the loss.” + </p> + <p> + And, after a moment of silence, + </p> + <p> + “But this is not all. Justice has interfered; and M. de + Thaller spent the morning with an examining-magistrate.” + </p> + <p> + “Well?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have enough experience to affirm that you must not rely any + more upon justice than upon the stockholders. Unless there are + proofs so evident that they are not likely to exist, M. de Thaller will + not be disturbed.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “Why? Because, my dear, in all those big financial operations, + justice, as much as possible, remains blind. Not through corruption + or any guilty connivance, but through considerations of public interest. + If the manager was prosecuted he would be condemned to a few years’ + imprisonment; but his stockholders would at the same time be condemned to + lose what they have left; so that the victims would be more severely + punished than the swindler. And so, powerless, justice does not + interfere. And that’s what accounts for the impudence and impunity + of all these high-flown rascals who go about with their heads high, their + pockets filled with other people’s money, and half a dozen decorations at + their button-hole.” + </p> + <p> + “And what then?” asked Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “Then it is evident that your father is lost. Whether or not + he did have accomplices, he will be alone sacrificed. A scapegoat is + needed to be slaughtered on the altar of credit. Well, they will + give that much satisfaction to the swindled stockholders. The twelve + millions will be lost; but the shares of the Mutual Credit will go up, and + public morality will be safe.” + </p> + <p> + Somewhat moved by the old lawyer’s tone, + </p> + <p> + “What do you advise me to do, then?” inquired Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “The very reverse of what, on the first impulse, I advised you to + do. That’s why I have come. I told you yesterday, ‘Make + a row, act, scream. It is impossible that your father be alone + guilty; attack M. de Thaller.’ To-day, after mature + deliberation, I say, ‘Keep quiet, hide yourself, let the scandal + drop.’” + </p> + <p> + A bitter smile contracted Maxence’s lips. + </p> + <p> + “It is not very brave advice you are giving me there,” he + said. + </p> + <p> + “It is a friend’s advice,—the advice of a man who knows life + better than yourself. Poor young man, you are not aware of the peril + of certain struggles. All knaves are in league and sustain each + other. To attack one is to attack them all. You have no idea + of the occult influences of which a man can dispose who handles millions, + and who, in exchange for a favor, has always a bonus to offer, or a good + operation to propose. If at least I could see any chance of success! + But you have not one. You never can reach M. de Thaller, henceforth + backed by his stockholders. You will only succeed in making an enemy + whose hostility will weigh upon your whole life.” + </p> + <p> + “What does it matter?” + </p> + <p> + M. Chapelain shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “If you were alone,” he went on, “I would say as you do, + ‘What does it matter?’ But you are no longer alone: + you have your mother and sister to take care of. You must think of + food before thinking of vengeance. How much a month do you earn? + Two hundred francs! It is not much for three persons. I would + never suggest that you should solicit M. de Thaller’s protection; but it + would be well, perhaps, to let him know that he has nothing to fear from + you. Why shouldn’t you do so when you take his fifteen thousand + francs back to him? If, as every thing indicates, he has been your + father’s accomplice, he will certainly be touched by the distress of your + family, and, if he has any heart left, he will manage to make you find, + without appearing to have any thing to do with it, a situation better + suited to your wants. I know that such a step must be very painful; + but I repeat it, my dear child, you can no longer think of yourself alone; + and what one would not do for himself, one does for a mother and a sister.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence said nothing. Not that he was in any way affected by the + worthy old lawyer’s speech; but he was asking himself whether or not he + should confide to him the events which in the past twenty-four hours had + so suddenly modified the situation. He did not feel authorized to do + so. + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars had not bound him to secrecy; but an indiscretion might + have fatal consequences. And, after a moment of thought, + </p> + <p> + “I am obliged to you, sir,” he replied evasively, “for + the interest you have manifested in our welfare; and we shall always + greatly prize your advice. But for the present you must allow me to + leave you with my mother and sister. I have an appointment with—a + friend.” + </p> + <p> + And, without waiting for an answer, he slipped M. de Thaller’s fifteen + thousand francs in his pocket, and hurried out. It was not to M. de + Tregars that he went first, however, but to the Hotel des Folies. + </p> + <p> + “Mlle. Lucienne has just come home with a big bundle,” said + Mme. Fortin to Maxence, with her pleasantest smile, as soon as she had + seen him emerge from the shades of the corridor. + </p> + <p> + For the past twenty-four hours, the worthy hostess had been watching for + her guest, in the hopes of obtaining some information which she might + communicate to the neighbors. Without even condescending to answer, + a piece of rudeness at which she felt much hurt, he crossed the narrow + court of the hotel at a bound, and started up stairs. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne’s room was open. He walked in, and, still out of + breath from his rapid ascension, + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to find you in,” he exclaimed. The young girl + was busy, arranging upon her bed a dress of very light colored silk, + trimmed with ruches and lace, an overdress to match, and a bonnet of + wonderful shape, loaded with the most brilliant feathers and flowers. + </p> + <p> + “You see what brings me here,” she replied. “I + came home to dress. At two o’clock the carriage is coming to take me + to the bois, where I am to exhibit this costume, certainly the most + ridiculous that Van Klopen has yet made me wear.” + </p> + <p> + A smile flitted upon Maxence’s lips. + </p> + <p> + “Who knows,” said he, “if this is not the last time you + will have to perform this odious task? Ah, my friend! what events + have taken place since I last saw you!” + </p> + <p> + “Fortunate ones?” + </p> + <p> + “You will judge for yourself.” + </p> + <p> + He closed the door carefully, and, returning to Mlle. Lucienne, + </p> + <p> + “Do you know the Marquis de Tregars?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “No more than you do. It was yesterday, at the commissary of + police, that I first heard his name.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, before a month, M. de Tregars will be Mlle. Gilberte + Favoral’s husband.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” exclaimed Mlle. Lucienne with a look of + extreme surprise. + </p> + <p> + But, instead of answering, + </p> + <p> + “You told me,” resumed Maxence, “that once, in a day of + supreme distress, you had applied to Mme. de Thaller for assistance, + whereas you were actually entitled to an indemnity for having been run + over and seriously hurt by her carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true.” + </p> + <p> + “Whilst you were in the vestibule, waiting for an answer to your + letter, which a servant had taken up stairs, M. de Thaller came in; and, + when he saw you, he could not repress a gesture of surprise, almost of + terror.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true too.” + </p> + <p> + “This behavior of M. de Thaller always remained an enigma to you.” + </p> + <p> + “An inexplicable one.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think that I can explain it to you now.” + </p> + <p> + “You?” + </p> + <p> + Lowering his voice; for he knew that at the Hotel des Folies there was + always to fear some indiscreet ear. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I,” he answered; “and for the reason that + yesterday, when M. de Tregars appeared in my mother’s parlor, I could not + suppress an exclamation of surprise, for the reason, Lucienne, that, + between Marius de Tregars and yourself, there is a resemblance with which + it is impossible not to be struck.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne had become very pale. + </p> + <p> + “What do you suppose, then?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “I believe, my friend, that we are very near penetrating at once the + mystery of your birth and the secret of the hatred that has pursued you + since the day when you first set your foot in M. de Thaller’s house.” + </p> + <p> + Admirably self-possessed as Mlle. Lucienne usually was, the quivering of + her lips betrayed at this moment the intensity of her emotion. + </p> + <p> + After more than a minute of profound meditation, + </p> + <p> + “The commissary of police,” she said, “has never told me + his hopes, except in vague terms. He has told me enough, however, to + make me think that he has already had suspicions similar to yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course! Would he otherwise have questioned me on the + subject of M. de Tregars?” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” she said, “even after your explanation, it is + in vain that I seek why and how I can so far disturb M. de Thaller’s + security that he wishes to do away with me.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence made a gesture of superb indifference. “I confess,” + he said, “that I don’t see it either. But what matters it? + Without being able to explain why, I feel that the Baron de Thaller is the + common enemy, yours, mine, my father’s, and M. de Tregars’. And + something tells me, that, with M. de Tregars’ help, we shall triumph. + You would share my confidence, Lucienne, if you knew him. There is a + man! and my sister has made no vulgar choice. If he has told my + mother that he has the means of serving her, it is because he certainly + has.” + </p> + <p> + He stopped, and, after a moment of silence, “Perhaps,” he went + on, “the commissary of police might readily understand what I only + dimly suspect; but, until further orders, we are forbidden to have + recourse to him. It is not my own secret that I have just told you; + and, if I have confided it to you, it is because I feel that it is a great + piece of good fortune for us; and there is no joy for me, that you do not + share.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Lucienne wanted to ask many more particulars. But, looking at + his watch, + </p> + <p> + “Half-past ten!” he exclaimed, “and M. de Tregars + waiting for me.” + </p> + <p> + And he started off, repeating once more to the young girl, + </p> + <p> + “I will see you to-night: until then, good hope and good + courage.” + </p> + <p> + In the court, two ill-looking men were talking with the Fortins. But + it happened often to the Fortins to talk with ill-looking men: so he + took no notice of them, ran out to the Boulevard, and jumping into a cab, + </p> + <p> + “Rue Lafitte 70,” he cried to the driver, “I pay the + trip,—three francs.” + </p> + <p> + When Marius de Tregars had finally determined to compel the bold rascals + who had swindled his father to disgorge, he had taken in the Rue Lafitte a + small, plainly-furnished apartment on the entresol, a fit dwelling for the + man of action, the tent in which he takes shelter on the eve of battle; + and he had to wait upon him an old family servant, whom he had found out + of place, and who had for him that unquestioning and obstinate devotion + peculiar to Breton servants. + </p> + <p> + It was this excellent man who came at the first stroke of the bell to open + the door. And, as soon as Maxence had told him his name, + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” he exclaimed, “my master has been expecting you + with a terrible impatience.” + </p> + <p> + It was so true, that M. de Tregars himself appeared at the same moment, + and, leading Maxence into the little room which he used as a study, + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” he said whilst shaking him cordially by the + hand, “that you are almost an hour behind time?” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had, among others the detestable fault, sure indication of a weak + nature, of being never willing to be in the wrong, and of having always an + excuse ready. On this occasion, the excuse was too tempting to allow + it to escape; and quick he began telling how he had been detained by M. + Chapelain, and how he had heard from the old lawyer what had taken place + at the Mutual Credit office. + </p> + <p> + “I know the scene already,” said M. de Tregars. And, + fixing upon Maxence a look of friendly raillery, + </p> + <p> + “Only,” he added, “I attributed your want of punctuality + to another reason, a very pretty one this time, a brunette.” + </p> + <p> + A purple cloud spread over Maxence’s cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “What!” he stammered, “you know?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you must have been in haste to go and tell a person of + your acquaintance why, when you saw me yesterday, you uttered an + exclamation of surprise.” + </p> + <p> + This time Maxence lost all countenance. + </p> + <p> + “What,” he said, “you know too?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I know a great many things, my dear M. Maxence,” he replied; + “and yet, as I do not wish to be suspected of witchcraft, I will + tell you where all my science comes from. At the time when your + house was closed to me, after seeking for a long time some means of + hearing from your sister, I discovered at last that she had for her + music-teacher an old Italian, the Signor Gismondo Pulei. I applied + to him for lessons, and became his pupil. But, in the beginning, he + kept looking at me with singular persistence. I inquired the reason; + and he told me that he had once had for a neighbor, at the Batignolles, a + young working-girl, who resembled me prodigiously. I paid no + attention to this circumstance, and had, in fact, completely forgotten it; + when, quite lately, Gismondo told me that he had just seen his former + neighbor again, and, what’s more, arm in arm with you, and that you both + entered together the Hotel des Folies. As he insisted again upon + that famous resemblance, I determined to see for myself. I watched, + and I stated, <i>de visa</i>, that my old Italian was not quite wrong, and + that I had, perhaps, just found the weapon I was looking for.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes staring, and his mouth gaping, Maxence looked like a man fallen + from the clouds. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you did watch!” he said. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars snapped his fingers with a gesture of indifference. + </p> + <p> + “It is certain,” he replied, “that, for a month past, I + have been doing a singular business. But it is not by remaining on + my chair, preaching against the corruption of the age, that I can attain + my object. The end justifies the means. Honest men are very + silly, I think, to allow the rascals to get the better of them under the + sentimental pretext that they cannot condescend to make use of their + weapons.” + </p> + <p> + But an honorable scruple was tormenting Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “And you think yourself well-informed, sir?” he inquired. + “You know Lucienne?” + </p> + <p> + “Enough to know that she is not what she seems to be, and what + almost any other would have been in her place; enough to be certain, that, + if she shows herself two or three times a week riding around the lake, it + is not for her pleasure; enough, also, to be persuaded, that, despite + appearances, she is not your mistress, and that, far from having disturbed + your life, and compromised your prospects, she set you back into the right + road, at the moment, perhaps, when you were about to branch off into the + wrong path.” + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars was assuming fantastic proportions in the mind of + Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “How did you manage,” he stammered, “thus to find out + the truth?” + </p> + <p> + “With time and money, every thing is possible.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must have had grave reasons to take so much trouble about + Lucienne.” + </p> + <p> + “Very grave ones, indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “You know that she was basely forsaken when quite a child?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly.” + </p> + <p> + “And that she was brought up through charity?” + </p> + <p> + “By some poor gardeners at Louveciennes: yes, I know all that.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence was trembling with joy. It seemed to him that his most + dazzling hopes were about to be realized. Seizing the hands of + Marius de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you know Lucienne’s family!” he exclaimed. But M. + de Tregars shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I have suspicions,” he answered; “but, up to this time, + I have suspicions only, I assure you.” + </p> + <p> + “But that family does exist; since they have already, at three + different times, attempted to get rid of the poor girl.” + </p> + <p> + “I think as you do; but we must have proofs: and we shall find + some. You may rest assured of that.” + </p> + <p> + Here he was interrupted by the noise of the opening door. + </p> + <p> + The old servant came in, and advancing to the centre of the room with a + mysterious look, + </p> + <p> + “Madame la Baronne de Thaller,” he said in a low voice. + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars started violently. + </p> + <p> + “Where?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “She is down stairs in her carriage,” replied the servant. + “Her footman is here, asking whether monsieur is at home, and + whether she can come up.” + </p> + <p> + “Can she possibly have heard any thing?” murmured M. de + Tregars with a deep frown. And, after a moment of reflection, + </p> + <p> + “So much the more reason to see her,” he added quickly. + “Let her come. Request her to do me the honor of coming up + stairs.” + </p> + <p> + This last incident completely upset all Maxence’s ideas. He no + longer knew what to imagine. + </p> + <p> + “Quick,” said M. de Tregars to him: “quick, + disappear; and, whatever you may hear, not a word!” + </p> + <p> + And he pushed him into his bedroom, which was divided from the study by a + mere tapestry curtain. It was time; for already in the next room + could be heard a great rustling of silk and starched petticoats. + Mme. de Thaller appeared. + </p> + <p> + She was still the same coarsely beautiful woman, who, sixteen years + before, had sat at Mme. Favoral’s table. Time had passed without + scarcely touching her with the tip of his wing. Her flesh had + retained its dazzling whiteness; her hair, of a bluish black, its + marvelous opulence; her lips, their carmine hue; her eyes, their lustre. + Her figure only had become heavier, her features less delicate; and her + neck and throat had lost their undulations, and the purity of their + outlines. + </p> + <p> + But neither the years, nor the millions, nor the intimacy of the most + fashionable women, had been able to give her those qualities which cannot + be acquired,—grace, distinction, and taste. + </p> + <p> + If there was a woman accustomed to dress, it was she: a splendid + dry-goods store could have been set up with the silks and the velvets, the + satins and cashmeres, the muslins, the laces, and all the known tissues, + that had passed over her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + Her elegance was quoted and copied. And yet there was about her + always and under all circumstances, an indescribable flavor of the <i>parvenue</i>. + Her gestures had remained trivial; her voice, common and vulgar. + </p> + <p> + Throwing herself into an arm-chair, and bursting into a loud laugh, + </p> + <p> + “Confess, my dear marquis,” she said, “that you are + terribly astonished to see me thus drop upon you, without warning, at + eleven o’clock in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel, above all, terribly flattered,” replied M. de + Tregars, smiling. + </p> + <p> + With a rapid glance she was surveying the little study, the modest + furniture, the papers piled on the desk, as if she had hoped that the + dwelling would reveal to her something of the master’s ideas and projects. + </p> + <p> + “I was just coming from Van Klopen’s,” she resumed; “and + passing before your house, I took a fancy to come in and stir you up; and + here I am.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was too much a man of the world, and of the best world, to + allow his features to betray the secret of his impressions; and yet, to + any one who had known him well, a certain contraction of the eyelids would + have revealed a serious annoyance and an intense anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “How is the baron?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “As sound as an oak,” answered Mme. de Thaller, “notwithstanding + all the cares and the troubles, which you can well imagine. By the + way, you know what has happened to us?” + </p> + <p> + “I read in the papers that the cashier of the Mutual Credit had + disappeared.” + </p> + <p> + “And it is but too true. That wretch Favoral has gone off with + an enormous amount of money.” + </p> + <p> + “Twelve millions, I heard.” + </p> + <p> + “Something like it. A man who had the reputation of a saint + too; a puritan. Trust people’s faces after that! I never liked + him, I confess. But M. de Thaller had a perfect fancy for him; and, + when he had spoken of his Favoral, there was nothing more to say. + Any way, he has cleared out, leaving his family without means. A + very interesting family, it seems, too,—a wife who is goodness + itself, and a charming daughter: at least, so says Costeclar, who is + very much in love with her.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars’ countenance remained perfectly indifferent, like that of a + man who is hearing about persons and things in which he does not take the + slightest interest. + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller noticed this. + </p> + <p> + “But it isn’t to tell you all this,” she went on, “that + I came up. It is an interested motive brought me. We have, + some of my friends and myself, organized a lottery—a work of + charity, my dear marquis, and quite patriotic—for the benefit of the + Alsatians, I have lots of tickets to dispose of; and I’ve thought of you + to help me out.” + </p> + <p> + More smiling than ever, + </p> + <p> + “I am at your orders, madame,” answered Marius, “but, in + mercy, spare me.” + </p> + <p> + She took out some tickets from a small shell pocket-book. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty, at ten francs,” she said. “It isn’t too + much, is it?” + </p> + <p> + “It is a great deal for my modest resources.” + </p> + <p> + She pocketed the ten napoleons which he handed her, and, in a tone of + ironical compassion, + </p> + <p> + “Are you so very poor, then?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Why, I am neither banker nor broker, you know.” + </p> + <p> + She had risen, and was smoothing the folds of her dress. + </p> + <p> + “Well, my dear marquis,” she resumed, “it is certainly + not me who will pity you. When a man of your age, and with your + name, remains poor, it is his own fault. Are there no rich + heiresses?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess that I haven’t tried to find one yet.” She + looked at him straight in the eyes, and then suddenly bursting out + laughing, + </p> + <p> + “Look around you,” she said, “and I am sure you’ll not + be long discovering a beautiful young girl, very blonde, who would be + delighted to become Marquise de Tregars, and who would bring in her apron + a dowry of twelve or fifteen hundred thousand francs in good securities,—securities + which the Favorals can’t carry off. Think well, and then come to see + us. You know that M. de Thaller is very fond of you; and, after all + the trouble we have been having, you owe us a visit.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon she went out, M. de Tregars going down to escort her to her + carriage. But as he came up, + </p> + <p> + “Attention!” he cried to Maxence; “for it’s very evident + that the Thallers have wind of something.” + </p> + <h2> + III + </h2> + <p> + It was a revelation, that visit of Mme. de Thaller’s; and there was no + need of very much perspicacity to guess her anxiety beneath her bursts of + laughter, and to understand that it was a bargain she had come to propose. + It was evident, therefore, that Marius de Tregars held within his hands + the principal threads of that complicated intrigue which had just + culminated in that robbery of twelve millions. But would he be able + to make use of them? What were his designs, and his means of action? + That is what Maxence could not in any way conjecture. + </p> + <p> + He had no time to ask questions. + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said M. Tregars, whose agitation was manifest,—“come, + let us breakfast: we have not a moment to lose.” + </p> + <p> + And, whilst his servant was bringing in his modest meal, + </p> + <p> + “I am expecting M. d’Escajoul,” he said. “Show him + in as soon as he comes.” + </p> + <p> + Retired as he had lived from the financial world, Maxence had yet heard + the name of Octave d’Escajoul. + </p> + <p> + Who has not seen him, happy and smiling, his eye bright, and his lip + ruddy, notwithstanding his fifty years, walking on the sunny side of the + Boulevard, with his royal blue jacket and his eternal white vest? He + is passionately fond of everything that tends to make life pleasant and + easy; dines at Bignon’s, or the Café Anglais; plays baccarat at the + club with extraordinary luck; has the most comfortable apartment and the + most elegant coupe in all Paris. With all this, he is pleased to + declare that he is the happiest of men, and is certainly one of the most + popular; for he cannot walk three blocks on the Boulevard without lifting + his hat at least fifty times, and shaking hands twice as often. + </p> + <p> + And when any one asks, “What does he do?” the invariable + answer is, “Why he operates.” + </p> + <p> + To explain what sort of operations, would not be, perhaps, very easy. + In the world of rogues, there are some rogues more formidable and more + skillful than the rest, who always manage to escape the hand of the law. + They are not such fools as to operate in person,—not they! + They content themselves with watching their friends and comrades. If + a good haul is made, at once they appear and claim their share. And, + as they always threaten to inform, there is no help for it but to let them + pocket the clearest of the profit. + </p> + <p> + Well, in a more elevated sphere, in the world of speculation, it is + precisely that lucrative and honorable industry which M. d’Escajoul + carries on. Thoroughly master of his ground, possessing a superior + scent and an imperturbable patience, always awake, and continually on the + watch, he never operates unless he is sure to win. + </p> + <p> + And the day when the manager of some company has violated his charter or + stretched the law a little too far, he may be sure to see M. d’Escajoul + appear, and ask for some little—advantages, and proffer, in + exchange, the most thorough discretion, and even his kind offices. + </p> + <p> + Two or three of his friends have heard him say, + </p> + <p> + “Who would dare to blame me? It’s very moral, what I am doing.” + </p> + <p> + Such is the man who came in, smiling, just as Maxence and Marius de + Tregars had sat down at the table. M. de Tregars rose to receive + him. + </p> + <p> + “You will breakfast with us?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you,” answered M. d’Escajoul. “I + breakfasted precisely at eleven, as usual. Punctuality is a + politeness which a man owes to his stomach. But I will accept with + pleasure a drop of that old Cognac which you offered me the other evening.” + </p> + <p> + He took a seat; and the valet brought him a glass, which he set on the + edge of the table. Then, + </p> + <p> + “I have just seen our man,” he said. + </p> + <p> + Maxence understood that he was referring to M. de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” inquired M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “Impossible to get any thing out of him. I turned him over and + over, every way. Nothing!” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “It’s so; and you know if I understand the business. But what + can you say to a man who answers you all the time, ‘The matter is in + the hands of the law; experts have been named; I have nothing to fear from + the most minute investigations’?” + </p> + <p> + By the look which Marius de Tregars kept riveted upon M. d’Escajoul, it + was easy to see that his confidence in him was not without limits. + He felt it, and, with an air of injured innocence, + </p> + <p> + “Do you suspect me, by chance,” he said, “to have + allowed myself to be hoodwinked by Thaller?” + </p> + <p> + And as M. de Tregars said nothing, which was the most eloquent of answers, + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word,” he insisted, “you are wrong to doubt me. + Was it you who came after me? No. It was I, who, hearing + through Marcolet the history of your fortune, came to tell you, ‘Do + you want to know a way of swamping Thaller?’ And the reasons I + had to wish that Thaller might be swamped: I have them still. + He trifled with me, he ‘sold’ me, and he must suffer for it; + for, if it came to be known that I could be taken in with impunity, it + would be all over with my credit.” + </p> + <p> + After a moment of silence, + </p> + <p> + “Do you believe, then,” asked M. de Tregars, “that M. de + Thaller is innocent?” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be curious.” + </p> + <p> + “Or else his measures are so well taken that he has absolutely + nothing to fear. If Favoral takes everything upon himself, what can + they say to the other? If they have acted in collusion, the thing + has been prepared for a long time; and, before commencing to fish, they + must have troubled the water so well, that justice will be unable to see + anything in it.” + </p> + <p> + “And you see no one who could help us?” + </p> + <p> + “Favoral—” + </p> + <p> + To Maxence’s great surprise, M. de Tregars shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “That one is gone,” he said; “and, were he at hand, it + is quite evident that if he was in collusion with M. de Thaller, he would + not speak.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course.” + </p> + <p> + “That being the case, what can we do?” + </p> + <p> + “Wait.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars made a gesture of discouragement. + </p> + <p> + “I might as well give up the fight, then,” he said, “and + try to compromise.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so? We don’t know what may happen. Keep quiet, be + patient; I am here, and I am looking out for squalls.” + </p> + <p> + He got up and prepared to leave. + </p> + <p> + “You have more experience than I have,” said M. de Tregars; + “and, since that’s your opinion——” + </p> + <p> + M. d’Escajoul had resumed all his good humor. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, then, it’s understood,” he said, pressing M. de + Tregars’ hand. “I am watching for both of us; and if I see a + chance, I come at once, and you act.” + </p> + <p> + But the outer door had hardly closed, when suddenly the countenance of + Marius de Tregars changed. Shaking the hand which M. d’Escajoul had + just touched,—“Pouah!” he said with a look of thorough + disgust,—“pouah!” + </p> + <p> + And noticing Maxence’s look of utter surprise, + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you understand,” he said, “that this old rascal + has been sent to me by Thaller to feel my intentions, and mislead me by + false information? I had scented him, fortunately; and, if either + one of us is dupe of the other, I have every reason to believe that it + will not be me.” + </p> + <p> + They had finished their breakfast. M. de Tregars called his servant. + </p> + <p> + “Have you been for a carriage?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “It is at the door, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, come along.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had the good sense not to over-estimate himself. Perfectly + convinced that he could accomplish nothing alone, he was firmly resolved + to trust blindly to Marius de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + He followed him, therefore; and it was only after the carriage had + started, that he ventured to ask, + </p> + <p> + “Where are we going?” + </p> + <p> + “Didn’t you hear me,” replied M. de Tregars, “order the + driver to take us to the court-house?” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon; but what I wish to know is, what we are going to + do there?” + </p> + <p> + “You are going, my dear friend, to ask an audience of the judge who + has your father’s case in charge, and deposit into his hands the fifteen + thousand francs you have in your pocket.” + </p> + <p> + “What! You wish me to—” + </p> + <p> + “I think it better to place that money into the hands of justice, + which will appreciate the step, than into those of M. de Thaller, who + would not breathe a word about it. We are in a position where + nothing should be neglected; and that money may prove an indication.” + </p> + <p> + But they had arrived. M. de Tregars guided Maxence through the + labyrinth of corridors of the building, until he came to a long gallery, + at the entrance of which an usher was seated reading a newspaper. + </p> + <p> + “M. Barban d’Avranchel?” inquired M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “He is in his office,” replied the usher. + </p> + <p> + “Please ask him if he would receive an important deposition in the + Favoral case.” + </p> + <p> + The usher rose somewhat reluctantly, and, while he was gone, + </p> + <p> + “You will go in alone,” said M. de Tregars to Maxence. + “I shall not appear; and it is important that my name should not + even be pronounced. But, above all, try and remember even the most + insignificant words of the judge; for, upon what he tells you, I shall + regulate my conduct.” + </p> + <p> + The usher returned. + </p> + <p> + “M. d’Avranchel will receive you,” he said. And, leading + Maxence to the extremity of the gallery, he opened a small door, and + pushed him in, saying at the same time, + </p> + <p> + “That is it, sir: walk in.” + </p> + <p> + It was a small room, with a low ceiling, and poorly furnished. The + faded curtains and threadbare carpet showed plainly that more than one + judge had occupied it, and that legions of accused criminals had passed + through it. In front of a table, two men—one old, the judge; + the other young, the clerk—were signing and classifying papers. + These papers related to the Favoral case, and were all indorsed in large + letters: Mutual Credit Company. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Maxence appeared, the judge rose, and, after measuring him with + a clear and cold look: + </p> + <p> + “Who are you?” he interrogated. + </p> + <p> + In a somewhat husky voice, Maxence stated his name and surname. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you are Vincent Favoral’s son,” interrupted the judge. + “And it was you who helped him escape through the window? I + was going to send you a summons this very day; but, since you are here, so + much the better. You have something important to communicate, I have + been told.” + </p> + <p> + Very few people, even among the most strictly honest, can overcome a + certain unpleasant feeling when, having crossed the threshold of the + palace of justice, they find themselves in presence of a judge. More + than almost any one else, Maxence was likely to be accessible to that + vague and inexplicable feeling; and it was with an effort that he + answered, + </p> + <p> + “On Saturday evening, the Baron de Thaller called at our house a few + minutes before the commissary. After loading my father with + reproaches, he invited him to leave the country; and, in order to + facilitate his flight, he handed him these fifteen thousand francs. + My father declined to accept them; and, at the moment of parting, he + recommended to me particularly to return them to M. de Thaller. I + thought it best to return them to you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I wished the fact known to you of the money having been + offered and refused.” + </p> + <p> + M. Barban d’Avranchel was quietly stroking his whiskers, once of a bright + red, but now almost entirely white. + </p> + <p> + “Is this an insinuation against the manager of the Mutual Credit?” + he asked. + </p> + <p> + Maxence looked straight at him; and, in a tone which affirmed precisely + the reverse, + </p> + <p> + “I accuse no one,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I must tell you,” resumed the judge, “that M. de + Thaller has himself informed me of this circumstance. When he called + at your house, he was ignorant, as yet, of the extent of the + embezzlements, and was in hopes of being able to hush up the affair. + That’s why he wished his cashier to start for Belgium. This system + of helping criminals to escape the just punishment of their crimes is to + be bitterly deplored; but it is quite the habit of your financial + magnates, who prefer sending some poor devil of an employe to hang himself + abroad than run the risk of compromising their credit by confessing that + they have been robbed.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence might have had a great deal to say; but M. de Tregars had + recommended him the most extreme reserve. He remained silent. + </p> + <p> + “On the other hand,” resumed the judge, “the refusal to + accept the money so generously offered does not speak in favor of Vincent + Favoral. He was well aware, when he left, that it would require a + great deal of money to reach the frontier, escape pursuit, and hide + himself abroad; and, if he refused the fifteen thousand francs, it must + have been because he was well provided for already.” + </p> + <p> + Tears of shame and rage started from Maxence’s eyes. “I am + certain, sir,” he exclaimed, “that my father went off without + a sou.” + </p> + <p> + “What has become of the millions, then?” he asked coldly. + </p> + <p> + Maxence hesitated. Why not mention his suspicions? He dared + not. + </p> + <p> + “My father speculated at the bourse,” he stammered. + “And he led a scandalous conduct, keeping up, away from home, a + style of living which must have absorbed immense sums.” + </p> + <p> + “We knew nothing of it, sir; and our first suspicions were aroused + by what the commissary of police told us.” + </p> + <p> + The judge insisted no more; and in a tone which indicated that his + question was a mere matter of form, and he attached but little importance + to the answer, + </p> + <p> + “You have no news from your father?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “None whatever.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have no idea where he has gone?” + </p> + <p> + “None in the least.” + </p> + <p> + M. d’Avranchel had already resumed his seat at the table, and was again + busy with his papers. + </p> + <p> + “You may retire,” he said. “You will be notified + if I need you.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence felt much discouraged when he joined M. de Tregars at the entrance + of the gallery. + </p> + <p> + “The judge is convinced of M. de Thaller’s entire innocence,” + he said. + </p> + <p> + But as soon as he had narrated, with a fidelity that did honor to his + memory, all that had just occurred, + </p> + <p> + “Nothing is lost yet,” declared M. de Tregars. And, + taking from his pocket the bill for two trunks, which had been found in M. + Favoral’s portfolio, + </p> + <p> + “There,” he said, “we shall know our fate.” + </p> + <h2> + IV + </h2> + <p> + M. de Tregars and Maxence were in luck. They had a good driver and a + fair horse; and in twenty minutes they were at the trunk store. As + soon as the cab stopped, + </p> + <p> + “Well,” exclaimed M. de Tregars, “I suppose it has to be + done.” + </p> + <p> + And, with the look of a man who has made up his mind to do something which + is extremely repugnant to him, he jumped out, and, followed by Maxence, + entered the shop. + </p> + <p> + It was a modest establishment; and the people who kept it, husband and + wife, seeing two customers coming in, rushed to meet them, with that + welcoming smile which blossoms upon the lips of every Parisian shopkeeper. + </p> + <p> + “What will you have, gentlemen?” + </p> + <p> + And, with wonderful volubility, they went on enumerating every article + which they had for sale in their shop,—from the “indispensable-necessary,” + containing seventy-seven pieces of solid silver, and costing four thousand + francs, down to the humblest carpet-bag at thirty-nine cents. + </p> + <p> + But Marius de Tregars interrupted them as soon as he could get an + opportunity, and, showing them their bill, + </p> + <p> + “It was here, wasn’t it,” he inquired, “that the two + trunks were bought which are charged in this bill?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” answered simultaneously both husband and wife. + </p> + <p> + “When were they delivered?” + </p> + <p> + “Our porter went to deliver them, less than two hours after they + were bought.” + </p> + <p> + “Where?” + </p> + <p> + By this time the shopkeepers were beginning to exchange uneasy looks. + </p> + <p> + “Why do you ask?” inquired the woman in a tone which indicated + that she had the settled intention not to answer, unless for good and + valid reason. + </p> + <p> + To obtain the simplest information is not always as easy as might be + supposed. The suspicion of the Parisian tradesman is easily aroused; + and, as his head is stuffed with stories of spies and robbers, as soon as + he is questioned he becomes as dumb as an oyster. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars had foreseen the difficulty: + </p> + <p> + “I beg you to believe, madame,” he went on, “that my + questions are not dictated by an idle curiosity. Here are the facts. + A relative of ours, a man of a certain age, of whom we are very fond, and + whose head is a little weak, left his home some forty-eight hours since. + We are looking for him, and we are in hopes, if we find these trunks, to + find him at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + With furtive glances, the husband and wife were tacitly consulting each + other. + </p> + <p> + “The fact is,” they said, “we wouldn’t like, under any + consideration, to commit an indiscretion which might result to the + prejudice of a customer.” + </p> + <p> + “Fear nothing,” said M. de Tregars with a reassuring gesture. + “If we have not had recourse to the police, it’s because, you know, + it isn’t pleasant to have the police interfere in one’s affairs. If + you have any objections to answer me, however, I must, of course, apply to + the commissary.” + </p> + <p> + The argument proved decisive. + </p> + <p> + “If that’s the case,” replied the woman, “I am ready to + tell all I know.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, madame, what do you know?” + </p> + <p> + “These two trunks were bought on Friday afternoon last, by a man of + a certain age, tall, very thin, with a stern countenance, and wearing a + long frock coat.” + </p> + <p> + “No more doubt,” murmured Maxence. “It was he.” + </p> + <p> + “And now,” the woman went on, “that you have just told + me that your relative was a little weak in the head, I remember that this + gentleman had a strange sort of way about him, and that he kept walking + about the store as if he had fleas on his legs. And awful particular + he was too! Nothing was handsome enough and strong enough for him; + and he was anxious about the safety-locks, as he had, he said, many + objects of value, papers, and securities, to put away.” + </p> + <p> + “And where did he tell you to send the two trunks?” + </p> + <p> + “Rue du Cirque, to Mme.—wait a minute, I have the name at the + end of my tongue.” + </p> + <p> + “You must have it on your books, too,” remarked M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + The husband was already looking over his blotter. + </p> + <p> + “April 26, 1872,” he said. “26, here it is: + ‘Two leather trunks, patent safety-locks: Mme. Zelie Cadelle, + 49 Rue du Cirque.’” + </p> + <p> + Without too much affectation, M. de Tregars had drawn near to the + shopkeeper, and was looking over his shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “What is that,” he asked, “written there, below the + address?” + </p> + <p> + “That, sir, is the direction left by the customer ‘Mark on + each end of the trunks, in large letters, “Rio de Janeiro.”’” + </p> + <p> + Maxence could not suppress an exclamation. “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + But the tradesman mistook him; and, seizing this magnificent opportunity + to display his knowledge, + </p> + <p> + “Rio de Janeiro is the capital of Brazil,” he said in a tone + of importance. “And your relative evidently intended to go + there; and, if he has not changed his mind, I doubt whether you can + overtake him; for the Brazilian steamer was to have sailed yesterday from + Havre.” + </p> + <p> + Whatever may have been his intentions, M. de Tregars remained perfectly + calm. + </p> + <p> + “If that’s the case,” he said to the shopkeepers, “I + think I had better give up the chase. I am much obliged to you, + however, for your information.” + </p> + <p> + But, once out again, + </p> + <p> + “Do you really believe,” inquired Maxence, “that my + father has left France?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “I will give you my opinion,” he uttered, “after I have + investigated matters in the Rue du Cirque.” + </p> + <p> + They drove there in a few minutes; and, the cab having stopped at the + entrance of the street, they walked on foot in front of No. 49. It + was a small cottage, only one story in height, built between a sanded + court-yard and a garden, whose tall trees showed above the roof. At + the windows could be seen curtains of light-colored silk, —a sure + indication of the presence of a young and pretty woman. + </p> + <p> + For a few minutes Marius de Tregars remained in observation; but, as + nothing stirred, + </p> + <p> + “We must find out something, somehow,” he exclaimed + impatiently. + </p> + <p> + And noticing a large grocery store bearing No. 62, he directed his steps + towards it, still accompanied by Maxence. + </p> + <p> + It was the hour of the day when customers are rare. Standing in the + centre of the shop, the grocer, a big fat man with an air of importance, + was overseeing his men, who were busy putting things in order. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars took him aside, and with an accent of mystery, + </p> + <p> + “I am,” he said, “a clerk with M. Drayton, the jeweler + in the Rue de la Paix; and I come to ask you one of those little favors + which tradespeople owe to each other.” + </p> + <p> + A frown appeared on the fat man’s countenance. He thought, perhaps, + that M. Drayton’s clerks were rather too stylish-looking; or else, + perhaps, he felt apprehensive of one of those numerous petty swindles of + which shopkeepers are constantly the victims. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” said he. “Speak!” + </p> + <p> + “I am on my way,” spoke M. de Tregars, “to deliver a + ring which a lady purchased of us yesterday. She is not a regular + customer, and has given us no references. If she doesn’t pay, shall + I leave the ring? My employer told me, ‘Consult some prominent + tradesman of the neighborhood, and follow his advice.’” + </p> + <p> + Prominent tradesman! Delicately tickled vanity was dancing in the + grocer’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “What is the name of the lady?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Mme. Zelie Cadelle.” + </p> + <p> + The grocer burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “In that case, my boy,” he said, tapping familiarly the + shoulder of the so-called clerk, “whether she pays or not, you can + deliver the article.” + </p> + <p> + The familiarity was not, perhaps, very much to the taste of the Marquis de + Tregars. No matter. + </p> + <p> + “She is rich, then, that lady?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “Personally no. But she is protected by an old fool, who + allows her all her fancies.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “It is scandalous; and you cannot form an idea of the amount of + money that is spent in that house. Horses, carriages, servants, + dresses, balls, dinners, card-playing all night, a perpetual carnival: + it must be ruinous!” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars never winced. + </p> + <p> + “And the old man who pays?” he asked; “do you know him?” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him pass,—a tall, lean, old fellow, who doesn’t + look very rich, either. But excuse me: here is a customer I + must wait upon.” + </p> + <p> + Having walked out into the street, + </p> + <p> + “We must separate now,” declared M. de Tregars to Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “What! You wish to—” + </p> + <p> + “Go and wait for me in that Café yonder, at the corner of the + street. I must see that Zelie Cadelle and speak to her.” + </p> + <p> + And without suffering an objection on the part of Maxence, he walked + resolutely up to the cottage-gate, and rang vigorously. + </p> + <p> + At the sound of the bell, one of those servants stepped out into the yard, + who seem manufactured on purpose, heaven knows where, for the special + service of young ladies who keep house,—a tall rascal with sallow + complexion and straight hair, a cynical eye, and a low, impudent smile. + </p> + <p> + “What do you wish, sir?” he inquired through the grating. + </p> + <p> + “That you should open the door, first,” uttered M. de Tregars, + with such a look and such an accent, that the other obeyed at once. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” he added, “go and announce me to Mme. Zelie + Cadelle.” + </p> + <p> + “Madame is out,” replied the valet. + </p> + <p> + And noticing that M. de Tregars shrugged his shoulders, + </p> + <p> + “Upon my word,” he said, “she has gone to the bois with + one of her friends. If you won’t believe me, ask my comrades there.” + </p> + <p> + And he pointed out two other servants of the same pattern as himself, who + were silting at a table in the carriage-house, playing cards, and + drinking. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars did not mean to be imposed upon. He felt certain + that the man was lying. Instead, therefore, of discussing, + </p> + <p> + “I want you to take me to your mistress,” he ordered, in a + tone that admitted of no objection; “or else I’ll find my way to her + alone.” + </p> + <p> + It was evident that he would do just as he said, by force if needs be. + The valet saw this, and, after hesitating a moment longer, + </p> + <p> + “Come along, then,” he said, “since you insist so much. + We’ll talk to the chambermaid.” + </p> + <p> + And, having led M. de Tregars into the vestibule, he called out, “Mam’selle + Amanda!” + </p> + <p> + A woman at once made her appearance who was a worthy mate for the valet. + She must have been about forty, and the most alarming duplicity could be + read upon her features, deeply pitted by the small-pox. She wore a + pretentious dress, an apron like a stage-servant, and a cap profusely + decorated with flowers and ribbons. + </p> + <p> + “Here is a gentleman,” said the valet, “who insists upon + seeing madame. You fix it with him.” + </p> + <p> + Better than her fellow servant, Mlle. Amanda could judge with whom she had + to deal. A single glance at this obstinate visitor convinced her + that he was not one who can be easily turned off. + </p> + <p> + Putting on, therefore, her pleasantest smile, thus displaying at the same + time her decayed teeth, + </p> + <p> + “The fact is that monsieur will very much disturb madame,” she + observed. + </p> + <p> + “I shall excuse myself.” + </p> + <p> + “But I’ll be scolded.” + </p> + <p> + Instead of answering, M. de Tregars took a couple of twenty-franc-notes + out of his pocket, and slipped them into her hand. + </p> + <p> + “Please follow me to the parlor, then,” she said with a heavy + sigh. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars did so, whilst observing everything around him with the + attentive perspicacity of a deputy sheriff preparing to make out an + inventory. + </p> + <p> + Being double, the house was much more spacious than could have been + thought from the street, and arranged with that science of comfort which + is the genius of modern architects. + </p> + <p> + The most lavish luxury was displayed on all sides; not that solid, quiet, + and harmonious luxury which is the result of long years of opulence, but + the coarse, loud, and superficial luxury of the <i>parvenu</i>, who is + eager to enjoy quick, and to possess all that he has craved from others. + </p> + <p> + The vestibule was a folly, with its exotic plants climbing along crystal + trellises, and its Sevres and China jardinieres filled with gigantic + azaleas. And along the gilt railing of the stairs marble and bronze + statuary was intermingled with masses of growing flowers. + </p> + <p> + “It must take twenty thousand francs a year to keep up this + conservatory alone,” thought M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Meantime the old chambermaid opened a satinwood door with silver lock. + </p> + <p> + “That’s the parlor,” she said. “Take a seat whilst + I go and tell madame.” + </p> + <p> + In this parlor everything had been combined to dazzle. Furniture, + carpets, hangings, every thing, was rich, too rich, furiously, + incontestably, obviously rich. The chandelier was a masterpiece, the + clock an original and unique piece of work. The pictures hanging + upon the wall were all signed with the most famous names. + </p> + <p> + “To judge of the rest by what I have seen,” thought M. de + Tregars, “there must have been at least four or five hundred + thousand francs spent on this house.” + </p> + <p> + And, although he was shocked by a quantity of details which betrayed the + most absolute lack of taste, he could hardly persuade himself that the + cashier of the Mutual Credit could be the master of this sumptuous + dwelling; and he was asking himself whether he had not followed the wrong + scent, when a circumstance came to put an end to all his doubts. + </p> + <p> + Upon the mantlepiece, in a small velvet frame, was Vincent Favoral’s + portrait. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had been seated for a few minutes, and was collecting his + somewhat scattered thoughts, when a slight grating sound, and a rustling + noise, made him turn around. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie Cadelle was coming in. + </p> + <p> + She was a woman of some twenty-five or six, rather tall, lithe, and well + made. Her face was pale and worn; and her heavy dark hair was + scattered over her neck and shoulders. She looked at once sarcastic + and good-natured, impudent and naive, with her sparkling eyes, her + turned-up nose, and wide mouth furnished with teeth, sound and white, like + those of a young dog. She had wasted no time upon her dress; for she + wore a plain blue cashmere wrapper, fastened at the waist with a sort of + silk scarf of similar color. + </p> + <p> + From the very threshold, + </p> + <p> + “Dear me!” she exclaimed, “how very singular!” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “What?” he inquired. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, nothing!” she replied,—“nothing at all!” + </p> + <p> + And without ceasing to look at him with a wondering eye, but suddenly + changing her tone of voice, + </p> + <p> + “And so, sir,” she said, “my servants have been unable + to keep you from forcing yourself into my house!” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, madame,” said M. de Tregars with a polite bow, + “that you will excuse my persistence. I come for a matter + which can suffer no delay.” + </p> + <p> + She was still looking at him obstinately. “Who are you?” + she asked. + </p> + <p> + “My name will not afford you any information. I am the Marquis + de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + “Tregars!” she repeated, looking up at the ceiling, as if in + search of an inspiration. “Tregars! Never heard of it!” + </p> + <p> + And throwing herself into an arm chair, + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, what do you wish with me, then? Speak!” + </p> + <p> + He had taken a seat near her, and kept his eyes riveted upon hers. + </p> + <p> + “I have come, madame,” he replied, “to ask you to put me + in the way to see and speak to the man whose photograph is there on the + mantlepiece.” + </p> + <p> + He expected to take her by surprise, and that by a shudder, a cry, a + gesture, she might betray her secret. Not at all. + </p> + <p> + “Are you, then, one of M. Vincent’s friends?” she asked + quietly. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars understood, and this was subsequently confirmed, that it was + under his Christian name of Vincent alone, that the cashier of the Mutual + Credit was known in the Rue du Cirque. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am a friend of his,” he replied; “and if I could + see him, I could probably render him an important service.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you are too late.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because M. Vincent put off more than twenty-four hours since?” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure of that?” + </p> + <p> + “As sure as a person can be who went to the railway station + yesterday with him and all his baggage.” + </p> + <p> + “You saw him leave?” + </p> + <p> + “As I see you.” + </p> + <p> + “Where was he going?” + </p> + <p> + “To Havre, to take the steamer for Brazil, which was to sail on the + same day; so that, by this time, he must be awfully seasick.” + </p> + <p> + “And you really think that it was his intention to go to Brazil?” + </p> + <p> + “He said so. It was written on his thirty-six trunks in + letters half a foot high. Besides, he showed me his ticket.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you any idea what could have induced him to expatriate himself + thus, at his age?” + </p> + <p> + “He told me he had spent all his money, and also some of other + people’s; that he was afraid of being arrested; and that he was going + yonder to be quiet, and try to make another fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Was Mme. Zelie speaking in good faith? To ask the question would + have been rather naive; but an effort might be made to find out. + Carefully concealing his own impressions, and the importance he attached + to this conversation, + </p> + <p> + “I pity you sincerely, madame,” resumed M. de Tregars; “for + you must be sorely grieved by this sudden departure.” + </p> + <p> + “Me!” she said in a voice that came from the heart. + “I don’t care a straw.” + </p> + <p> + Marquis de Tregars knew well enough the ladies of the class to which he + supposed that Mme. Zelie Cadelle must belong, not to be surprised at this + frank declaration. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he said, “you are indebted to him for the + princely magnificence that surrounds you here.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course.” + </p> + <p> + “He being gone, as you say, will you be able to keep up your style + of living?” + </p> + <p> + Half raising herself from her seat, + </p> + <p> + “I haven’t the slightest idea of doing so,” she exclaimed. + “Never in the whole world have I had such a stupid time as for the + last five months that I have spent in this gilded cage. What a bore, + my beloved brethren! I am yawning still at the mere thought of the + number of times I have yawned in it.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars’ gesture of surprise was the more natural, that his surprise + was immense. + </p> + <p> + “You are tired being here?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “To death.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have only been here five months?” + </p> + <p> + “Dear me; yes! and by the merest chance, too, you’ll see. One + day at the beginning of last December, I was coming from—but no + matter where I was coming from. At any rate, I hadn’t a cent in my + pocket, and nothing but an old calico dress on my back; and I was going + along, not in the best of humor, as you may imagine, when I feel that some + one is following me. Without looking around, and from the corner of + my eye, I look over my shoulder, and I see a respectable-looking old + gentleman, wearing a long frock-coat.” + </p> + <p> + “M. Vincent?” + </p> + <p> + “In his own natural person, and who was walking, walking. I + quietly begin to walk slower; and, as soon as we come to a place where + there was hardly any one, he comes up alongside of me.” + </p> + <p> + Something comical must have happened at this moment, which Mme. Zelie + Cadelle said nothing about; for she was laughing most heartily, —a + frank and sonorous laughter. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” she resumed, “he begins at once to explain that + I remind him of a person whom he loved tenderly, and whom he has just had + the misfortune to lose, adding, that he would deem himself the happiest of + men if I would allow him to take care of me, and insure me a brilliant + position.” + </p> + <p> + “You see! That rascally Vincent!” said M. de Tregars, + just to be saying something. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “You know him,” she resumed. “He is not young; he + is not handsome; he is not funny. I did not fancy him one bit; and, + if I had only known where to find shelter for the night, I’d soon have + sent him to the old Nick,—him and his brilliant position. But, + not having enough money to buy myself a penny-loaf, it wasn’t the time to + put on any airs. So I tell him that I accept. He goes for a + cab; we get into it; and he brings me right straight here.” + </p> + <p> + Positively M. de Tregars required his entire self-control to conceal the + intensity of his curiosity. + </p> + <p> + “Was this house, then, already as it is now?” he interrogated. + </p> + <p> + “Precisely, except that there were no servants in it, except the + chambermaid Amanda, who is M. Favoral’s confidante. All the others + had been dismissed; and it was a hostler from a stable near by who came to + take care of the horses.” + </p> + <p> + “And what then?” + </p> + <p> + “Then you may imagine what I looked like in the midst of all this + magnificence, with my old shoes and my fourpenny skirt. Something + like a grease-spot on a satin dress. M. Vincent seemed delighted, + nevertheless. He had sent Amanda out to get me some under-clothing + and a ready-made wrapper; and, whilst waiting, he took me all through the + house, from the cellar to the garret, saying that everything was at my + command, and that the next day I would have a battalion of servants to + wait on me.” + </p> + <p> + It was evidently with perfect frankness that she was speaking, and with + the pleasure one feels in telling an extraordinary adventure. But + suddenly she stopped short, as if discovering that she was forgetting + herself, and going farther than was proper. + </p> + <p> + And it was only after a moment of reflection that she went on, + </p> + <p> + “It was like fairyland to me. I had never tasted the opulence + of the great, you see, and I had never had any money except that which I + earned. So, during the first days, I did nothing but run up and down + stairs, admiring everything, feeling everything with my own hands, and + looking at myself in the glass to make sure that I was not dreaming. + I rang the bell just to make the servants come up; I spent hours trying + dresses; then I’d have the horses put to the carriage, and either ride to + the bois, or go out shopping. M. Vincent gave me as much money as I + wanted; and it seemed as though I never spent enough. I shout, I was + like a mad woman.” + </p> + <p> + A cloud appeared upon Mme. Zelie’s countenance, and, changing suddenly her + tone and her manner, + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately,” she went on, “one gets tired of every + thing. At the end of two weeks I knew the house from top to bottom, + and after a month I was sick of the whole thing; so that one night I began + dressing. + </p> + <p> + “‘Where do you want to go?’ Amanda asked me. <br />‘Why, + to Mabille, to dance a quadrille, or two.’ <br />‘Impossible!’ + <br />‘Why?’ <br />‘Because M. Vincent does not wish you + to go out at night.’ <br />‘We’ll see about that!’ + </p> + <p> + “The next day, I tell all this to M. Vincent; and he says that + Amanda is right; that it is not proper for a woman in my position to + frequent balls; and that, if I want to go out at night, I can stay. + Get out! I tell you what, if it hadn’t been for the fine carriage, + and all that, I would have cleared out that minute. Any way, I + became disgusted from that moment, and have been more and more ever since; + and, if M. Vincent had not himself left, I certainly would.” + </p> + <p> + “To go where?” + </p> + <p> + “Anywhere. Look here, now! do you suppose I need a man to + support me! No, thank Heaven! Little Zelie, here present, has + only to apply to any dressmaker, and she’ll be glad to give her four + francs a day to run the machine. And she’ll be free, at least; and + she can laugh and dance as much as she likes.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had made a mistake: he had just discovered it. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie Cadelle was certainly not particularly virtuous; but she was + far from being the woman he expected to meet. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” he said, “you did well to wait patiently.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not regret it.” + </p> + <p> + “If you can keep this house—” + </p> + <p> + She interrupted him with a great burst of laughter. + </p> + <p> + “This house!” she exclaimed. “Why, it was sold + long ago, with every thing in it,—furniture, horses, carriages, + every thing except me. A young gentleman, very well dressed, bought + it for a tall girl, who looks like a goose, and has far over a thousand + francs of red hair on her head.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure of that?” + </p> + <p> + “Sure as I live, having seen with my own eyes the young swell and + his red-headed friend counting heaps of bank-notes to M. Vincent. + They are to move in day after to-morrow; and they have invited me to the + house-warming. But no more of it for me, I thank you! I am + sick and tired of all these people. And the proof of it is, I am + busy packing my things; and lots of them I have too,—dresses, + underclothes, jewelry. He was a good-natured fellow, old Vincent + was, anyhow. He gave me money enough to buy some furniture. I + have hired a small apartment; and I am going to set up dress-making on my + own hook. And won’t we laugh then! and won’t we have some fun to + make up for lost time! Come, my children, take your places for a + quadrille. Forward two!” + </p> + <p> + And, bouncing out of her chair, she began sketching out one of those bold + cancan steps which astound the policemen on duty in the ball-rooms. + </p> + <p> + “Bravo!” said M. de Tregars, forcing himself to smile,—“bravo!” + </p> + <p> + He saw clearly now what sort of woman was Mme. Zelie Cadelle; how he + should speak to her, and what cords he might yet cause to vibrate within + her. He recognized the true daughter of Paris, wayward and nervous, + who in the midst of her disorders preserves an instinctive pride; who + places her independence far above all the money in the world; who gives, + rather than sells, herself; who knows no law but her caprice, no morality + but the policeman, no religion but pleasure. + </p> + <p> + As soon as she had returned to her seat, + </p> + <p> + “There you are dancing gayly,” he said, “and poor + Vincent is doubtless groaning at this moment over his separation from you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I’d pity him if I had time,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “He was fond of you?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t speak of it.” + </p> + <p> + “If he had not been fond of you, he would not have put you here.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie made a little face of equivocal meaning. + </p> + <p> + “What proof is that?” she murmured. + </p> + <p> + “He would not have spent so much money for you.” + </p> + <p> + “For me!” she interrupted,—“for me! What + have I cost him of any consequence? Is it for me that he bought, + furnished, and fitted out this house? No, no! He had the cage; + and he put in the bird, —the first he happened to find. He + brought me here as he might have brought any other woman, young or old, + pretty or ugly, blonde or brunette. As to what I spent here, it was + a mere bagatelle compared with what the other did,—the one before + me. Amanda kept telling me all the time I was a fool. You may + believe me, then, when I tell you that M. Vincent will not wet many + handkerchiefs with the tears he’ll shed over me.” + </p> + <p> + “But do you know what became of the one before you, as you call her, + —whether she is alive or dead, and owing to what circumstances the + cage became empty?” + </p> + <p> + But, instead of answering, Mme. Zelie was fixing upon Marius de Tregars a + suspicious glance. And, after a moment only, + </p> + <p> + “Why do you ask me that?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I would like to know.” + </p> + <p> + She did not permit him to proceed. Rising from her seat, and + stepping briskly up to him, + </p> + <p> + “Do you belong to the police, by chance?” she asked in a tone + of mistrust. + </p> + <p> + If she was anxious, it was evidently because she had motives of anxiety + which she had concealed. If, two or three times she had interrupted + herself, it was because, manifestly, she had a secret to keep. If + the idea of police had come into her mind, it is because, very probably, + they had recommended her to be on her guard. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars understood all this, and, also, that he had tried to go too + fast. + </p> + <p> + “Do I look like a secret police-agent?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + She was examining him with all her power of penetration. + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, I confess,” she replied. “But, if you + are not one, how is it that you come to my house, without knowing me from + this side of sole leather, to ask me a whole lot of questions, which I am + fool enough to answer?” + </p> + <p> + “I told you I was a friend of M. Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + “Who’s that Favoral?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s M. Vincent’s real name, madame.” + </p> + <p> + She opened her eyes wide. + </p> + <p> + “You must be mistaken. I never heard him called any thing but + Vincent.” + </p> + <p> + “It is because he had especial motives for concealing his + personality. The money he spent here did not belong to him: he + took it, he stole it, from the Mutual Credit Company where he was cashier, + and where he left a deficit of twelve millions.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie stepped back as though she had trodden on a snake. + </p> + <p> + “It’s impossible!” she cried. + </p> + <p> + “It is the exact truth. Haven’t you seen in the papers the + case of Vincent Favoral, cashier of the Mutual Credit?” + </p> + <p> + And, taking a paper from his pocket, he handed it to the young woman, + saying, “Read.” + </p> + <p> + But she pushed it back, not without a slight blush. “Oh, I + believe you!” she said. + </p> + <p> + The fact is, and Marius understood it, she did not read very fluently. + </p> + <p> + “The worst of M. Vincent Favoral’s conduct,” he resumed, + “is, that, while he was throwing away money here by the handful, he + subjected his family to the most cruel privations.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “He refused the necessaries of life to his wife, the best and the + worthiest of women; he never gave a cent to his son; and he deprived his + daughter of every thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, if I could have suspected such a thing!” murmured Mme. + Zelie. + </p> + <p> + “Finally, and to cap the—climax, he has gone, leaving his wife + and children literally without bread.” + </p> + <p> + Transported with indignation, + </p> + <p> + “Why, that man must have been a horrible old scoundrel!” + exclaimed the young woman. + </p> + <p> + This is just the point to which M. de Tregars wished to bring her. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” he resumed, “you must understand the enormous + interest we have in knowing what has become of him.” + </p> + <p> + “I have already told you.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had risen, in his turn. Taking Mme. Zelie’s hands, and + fixing upon her one of those acute looks, which search for the truth down + to the innermost recesses of the conscience, + </p> + <p> + “Come, my dear child,” he began in a penetrating voice, + “you are a worthy and honest girl. Will you leave in the most + frightful despair a family who appeal to your heart? Be sure that no + harm will ever happen through us to Vincent Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + She raised her hand, as they do to take an oath in a court of justice, + and, in a solemn tone, + </p> + <p> + “I swear,” she uttered, “that I went to the station with + M. Vincent; that he assured me that he was going to Brazil; that he had + his passage-ticket; and that all his baggage was marked, ‘Rio de + Janeiro.’” + </p> + <p> + The disappointment was great: and M. de Tregars manifested it by a + gesture. + </p> + <p> + “At least,” he insisted, “tell me who the woman was + whose place you took here.” + </p> + <p> + But already had the young woman returned to her feeling of mistrust. + </p> + <p> + “How in the world do you expect me to know?” she replied. + “Go and ask Amanda. I have no accounts to give you. + Besides, I have to go and finish packing my trunks. So good-by, and + enjoy yourself.” + </p> + <p> + And she went out so quick, that she caught Amanda, the chambermaid, + kneeling behind the door. + </p> + <p> + “So that woman was listening,” thought M. de Tregars, anxious + and dissatisfied. + </p> + <p> + But it was in vain that he begged Mme. Zelie to return, and to hear a + single word more. She disappeared; and he had to resign himself to + leave the house without learning any thing more for the present. + </p> + <p> + He had remained there very long; and he was wondering, as he walked out, + whether Maxence had not got tired waiting for him in the little Café + where he had sent him. + </p> + <p> + But Maxence had remained faithfully at his post. And when Marius de + Tregars came to sit by him, whilst exclaiming, “Here you are at + last!” he called his attention at the same time with a gesture, and + a wink from the corner of his eye, to two men sitting at the adjoining + table before a bowl of punch. + </p> + <p> + Certain, now, that M. de Tregars would remain on the lookout, Maxence was + knocking on the table with his fist, to call the waiter, who was busy + playing billiards with a customer. + </p> + <p> + And when he came at last, justly annoyed at being disturbed, + </p> + <p> + “Give us two mugs of beer,” Maxence ordered, “and bring + us a pack of cards.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars understood very well that something extraordinary had + happened; but, unable to guess what, he leaned over towards his companion. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” he whispered. + </p> + <p> + “We must hear what these two men are saying; and we’ll play a game + of piquet for a subterfuge.” + </p> + <p> + The waiter returned, bringing two glasses of a muddy liquid, a piece of + cloth, the color of which was concealed under a layer of dirt, and a pack + of cards horribly soft and greasy. + </p> + <p> + “My deal,” said Maxence. + </p> + <p> + And he began shuffling, and giving the cards, whilst M. de Tregars was + examining the punch-drinkers at the next table. + </p> + <p> + In one of the two, a man still young, wearing a striped vest with alpaca + sleeves, he thought he recognized one of the rascally-looking fellows he + had caught a glimpse of in Mme. Zelie Cadelle’s carriage-house. + </p> + <p> + The other, an old man, whose inflamed complexion and blossoming nose + betrayed old habits of drunkenness, looked very much like a coachman out + of place. Baseness and duplicity bloomed upon his countenance; and + the brightness of his small eyes rendered still more alarming the slyly + obsequious smile that was stereotyped upon his thin and pale lips. + </p> + <p> + They were so completely absorbed in their conversation, that they paid no + attention whatever to what was going on around them. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” the old one was saying, “it’s all over.” + </p> + <p> + “Entirely. The house is sold.” + </p> + <p> + “And the boss?” + </p> + <p> + “Gone to America.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Suddenly, that way?” + </p> + <p> + “No. We supposed he was going on some journey, because, every + day since the beginning of the week, they were bringing in trunks and + boxes; but no one knew exactly when he would go. Now, in the night + of Saturday to Sunday, he drops in the house like a bombshell, wakes up + everybody, and says he must leave immediately. At once we harness + up, we load the baggage up, we drive him to the Western Railway Station, + and good-by, Vincent!” + </p> + <p> + “And the young lady?” + </p> + <p> + “She’s got to get out in the next twenty-four hours; but she don’t + seem to mind it one bit. The fact is we are the ones who grieve the + most, after all.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” + </p> + <p> + “It is so. She was a good girl; and we won’t soon find one + like her.” + </p> + <p> + The old man seemed distressed. + </p> + <p> + “Bad luck!” he growled. “I would have liked that + house myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I dare say you would!” + </p> + <p> + “And there is no way to get in?” + </p> + <p> + “Can’t tell. It will be well to see the others, those who have + bought. But I mistrust them: they look too stupid not to be + mean.” + </p> + <p> + Listening intently to the conversation of these two men, it was + mechanically and at random that M. de Tregars and Maxence threw their + cards on the table, and uttered the common terms of the game of piquet, + </p> + <p> + “Five cards! Tierce, major! Three aces.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime the old man was going on, + </p> + <p> + “Who knows but what M. Vincent may come back?” + </p> + <p> + “No danger of that!” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + The other looked carefully around, and, seeing only two players absorbed + in their game, + </p> + <p> + “Because,” he replied, “M. Vincent is completely + ruined, it seems. He spent all his money, and a good deal of other + people’s money besides. Amanda, the chambermaid, told me; and I + guess she knows.” + </p> + <p> + “You thought he was so rich!” + </p> + <p> + “He was. But no matter how big a bag is: if you keep + taking out of it, you must get to the bottom.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he spent a great deal?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s incredible! I have been in extravagant houses; but + nowhere have I ever seen money fly as it has during the five months that I + have been in that house. A regular pillage! Everybody helped + themselves; and what was not in the house, they could get from the + tradespeople, have it charged on the bill; and it was all paid without a + word.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, yes, indeed, the money must have gone pretty lively,” + said the old one in a convinced tone. + </p> + <p> + “Well,” replied the other, “that was nothing yet. + Amanda the chambermaid who has been in the house fifteen years, told us + some stories that would make you jump. She was not much for + spending, Zelie; but some of the others, it seems . . .” + </p> + <p> + It required the greatest effort on the part of Maxence and M. de Tregars + not to play, but only to pretend to play, and to continue to count + imaginary points,—“One, two, three, four.” + </p> + <p> + Fortunately the coachman with the red nose seemed much interested. + </p> + <p> + “What others?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “That I don’t know any thing about,” replied the younger + valet. “But you may imagine that there must have been more + than one in that little house during the many years that M. Vincent owned + it,—a man who hadn’t his equal for women, and who was worth + millions.” + </p> + <p> + “And what was his business?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t know that, either.” + </p> + <p> + “What! there were ten of you in the house, and you didn’t know the + profession of the man who paid you all?” + </p> + <p> + “We were all new.” + </p> + <p> + “The chambermaid, Amanda, must have known.” + </p> + <p> + “When she was asked, she said that he was a merchant. One + thing is sure, he was a queer old chap.” + </p> + <p> + So interested was the old coachman, that, seeing the punch-bowl empty, he + called for another. His comrade could not fail to show his + appreciation of such politeness. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, yes!” he went on, “old Vincent was an eccentric + fellow; and never, to see him, could you have suspected that he cut up + such capers, and that he threw money away by the handful.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “Imagine a man about fifty years old, stiff as a post, with a face + about as pleasant as a prison-gate. That’s the boss! Summer + and winter, he wore laced shoes, blue stockings, gray pantaloons that were + too short, a cotton necktie, and a frock-coat that came down to his + ankles. In the street, you would have taken him for a hosier who had + retired before his fortune was made.” + </p> + <p> + “You don’t say so!” + </p> + <p> + “No, never have I seen a man look so much like an old miser. + You think, perhaps, that he came in a carriage. Not a bit of it! + He came in the omnibus, my boy, and outside too, for three sous; and when + it rained he opened his umbrella. But the moment he had crossed the + threshold of the house, presto, pass! complete change of scene. The + miser became pacha. He took off his old duds, put on a blue velvet + robe; and then there was nothing handsome enough, nothing good enough, + nothing expensive enough for him. And, when he had acted the my lord + to his heart’s content, he put on his old traps again, resumed his + prison-gate face, climbed up on top of the omnibus, and went off as he + came.” + </p> + <p> + “And you were not surprised, all of you, at such a life?” + </p> + <p> + “Very much so.” + </p> + <p> + “And you did not think that these singular whims must conceal + something?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but we did!” + </p> + <p> + “And you didn’t try to find out what that something was?” + </p> + <p> + “How could we?” + </p> + <p> + “Was it very difficult to follow your boss, and ascertain where he + went, after leaving the house?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not; but what then?” + </p> + <p> + “Why,” he replied, “you would have found out his secret + in the end; and then you would have gone to him and told him, ‘Give + me so much, or I peach.’” + </p> + <h2> + V + </h2> + <p> + This story of M. Vincent, as told by these two honest companions, was + something like the vulgar legend of other people’s money, so eagerly + craved, and so madly dissipated. Easily-gotten wealth is easily + gotten rid of. Stolen money has fatal tendencies, and turns + irresistibly to gambling, horse-jockeys, fast women, all the ruinous + fancies, all the unwholesome gratifications. + </p> + <p> + They are rare indeed, among the daring cut-throats of speculation, those + to whom their ill-gotten gain proves of real service,—so rare, that + they are pointed out, and are as easily numbered as the girls who leap + some night from the street to a ten-thousand-franc apartment, and manage + to remain there. + </p> + <p> + Seized with the intoxication of sudden wealth, they lose all measure and + all prudence. Whether they believe their luck inexhaustible, or fear + a sudden turn of fortune, they make haste to enjoy themselves, and they + fill the noted restaurants, the leading Cafés, the theatres, the + clubs, the race-courses, with their impudent personality, the clash of + their voice, the extravagance of their mistresses, the noise of their + expenses, and the absurdity of their vanity. And they go on and on, + lavishing other people’s money, until the fatal hour of one of those + disastrous liquidations which terrify the courts and the exchange, and + cause pallid faces and a gnashing of teeth in the “street,” + until the moment when they have the choice between a pistol-shot, which + they never choose, the criminal court, which they do their best to avoid, + and a trip abroad. + </p> + <p> + What becomes of them afterwards? To what gutters do they tumble from + fall to fall? Does any one know what becomes of the women who + disappear suddenly after two or three years of follies and of splendors? + </p> + <p> + But it happens sometimes, as you step out of a carriage in front of some + theatre, that you wonder where you have already seen the face of the + wretched beggar who opens the door for you, and in a husky voice claims + his two sous. You saw him at the Café Riche, during the six + months that he was a big financier. + </p> + <p> + Some other time you may catch, in the crowd, snatches of a strange + conversation between two crapulous rascals. + </p> + <p> + “It was at the time,” says one, “when I drove that + bright chestnut team that I had bought for twenty thousand francs of the + eldest son of the Duke de Sermeuse.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember,” replies the other; “for at that moment I + gave six thousand francs a month to little Cabriole of the Varieties.” + </p> + <p> + And, improbable as this may seem, it is the exact truth; for one was + manager of a manufacturing enterprise that sank ten millions; and the + other was at the head of a financial operation that ruined five hundred + families. They had houses like the one in the Rue du Cirque, + mistresses more expensive than Mme. Zelie Cadelle, and servants like those + who were now talking within a step of Maxence and Marius de Tregars. + The latter had resumed their conversation; and the oldest one, the + coachman with the red nose, was saying to his younger comrade, + </p> + <p> + “This Vincent affair must be a lesson to you. If ever you find + yourself again in a house where so much money is spent, remember that it + hasn’t cost much trouble to make it, and manage somehow to get as big a + share of it as you can.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I’ve always done wherever I have been.” + </p> + <p> + “And, above all, make haste to fill your bag, because, you see, in + houses like that, one is never sure, one day, whether, the next, the + gentleman will not be at Mazas, and the lady at St. Lazares.” + </p> + <p> + They had done their second bowl of punch, and finished their conversation. + They paid, and left. + </p> + <p> + And Maxence and M. de Tregars were able, at last, to throw down their + cards. + </p> + <p> + Maxence was very pale; and big tears were rolling down his cheeks. + </p> + <p> + “What disgrace!” he murmured: “This, then, is the + other side of my father’s existence! This is the way in which he + spent the millions which he stole; whilst, in the Rue St. Gilles, he + deprived his family of the necessaries of life!” + </p> + <p> + And, in a tone of utter discouragement, + </p> + <p> + “Now it is indeed all over, and it is useless to continue our + search. My father is certainly guilty.” + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars was not the man thus to give up the game. + </p> + <p> + “Guilty? Yes,” he said, “but dupe also.” + </p> + <p> + “Whose dupe?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s what we’ll find out, you may depend upon it.” + </p> + <p> + “What! after what we have just heard?” + </p> + <p> + “I have more hope than ever.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you learn any thing from Mme. Zelie Cadelle, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing more than you know by those two rascals’ conversation.” + </p> + <p> + A dozen questions were pressing upon Maxence’s lips; but M. de Tregars + interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “In this case, my friend, less than ever must we trust appearances. + Let me speak. Was your father a simpleton? No! His + ability to dissimulate, for years, his double existence, proves, on the + contrary, a wonderful amount of duplicity. How is it, then, that + latterly his conduct has been so extraordinary and so absurd? But + you will doubtless say it was always such. In that case, I answer + you, No; for then his secret could not have been kept for a year. We + hear that other women lived in that house before Mme. Zelie Cadelle. + But who were they? What has become of them? Is there any + certainty that they have ever existed? Nothing proves it. + </p> + <p> + “The servants having been all changed, Amanda, the chambermaid, is + the only one who knows the truth; and she will be very careful to say + nothing about it. Therefore, all our positive information goes back + no farther than five months. And what do we hear? That your + father seemed to try and make his extravagant expenditures as conspicuous + as possible. That he did not even take the trouble to conceal the + source of the money he spent so profusely; for he told Mme. Zelie that he + was at the end of his tether, and that, after having spent his own + fortune, he was spending other people’s money. He had announced his + intended departure; he had sold the house, and received its price. + Finally, at the last moment, what does he do? + </p> + <p> + “Instead of going off quietly and secretly, like a man who is + running away, and who knows that he is pursued, he tells every one where + he intends to go; he writes it on all his trunks, in letters half a foot + high; and then rides in great display to the railway station, with a + woman, several carriages, servants, etc. What is the object of all + this? To get caught? No, but to start a false scent. + Therefore, in his mind, every thing must have been arranged in advance, + and the catastrophe was far from taking him by surprise; therefore the + scene with M. de Thaller must have been prepared; therefore, it must have + been on purpose that he left his pocketbook behind, with the bill in it + that was to lead us straight here; therefore all we have seen is but a + transparent comedy, got up for our special benefit, and intended to cover + up the truth, and mislead the law.” + </p> + <p> + But Maxence was not entirely convinced. + </p> + <p> + “Still,” he remarked, “those enormous expenses.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars shrugged his shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Have you any idea,” he said, “what display can be made + with a million? Let us admit that your father spent two, four + millions even. The loss of the Mutual Credit is twelve millions. + What has become of the other eight?” + </p> + <p> + And, as Maxence made no answer, + </p> + <p> + “It is those eight millions,” he added, “that I want, + and that I shall have. It is in Paris that your father is hid, I + feel certain. We must find him; and we must make him tell the truth, + which I already more than suspect.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon, throwing on the table the pint of beer which he had not drunk, + he walked out of the Café with Maxence. + </p> + <p> + “Here you are at last!” exclaimed the coachman, who had been + waiting at the corner for over three hours, a prey to the utmost anxiety. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars had no time for explanations; and, pushing Maxence into + the cab, he jumped in after him, crying to the coachman, + </p> + <p> + “24 Rue Joquelet. Five francs extra for yourself.” + A driver who expects an extra five francs, always has, for five minutes at + least, a horse as fast as Gladiateur. + </p> + <p> + Whilst the cab was speeding on to its destination, + </p> + <p> + “What is most important for us now,” said M. de Tregars to + Maxence, “is to ascertain how far the Mutual Credit crisis has + progressed; and M. Latterman of the Rue Joquelet is the man in all Paris + who can best inform us.” + </p> + <p> + Whoever has made or lost five hundred francs at the bourse knows M. + Latterman, who, since the war, calls himself an Alsatian and curses with a + fearful accent those “parparous Broossians.” This worthy + speculator modestly calls himself a money-changer; but he would be a + simpleton who should ask him for change: and it is certainly not + that sort of business which gives him the three hundred thousand francs’ + profits which he pockets every year. + </p> + <p> + When a company has failed, when it has been wound up, and the defrauded + stockholders have received two or three per cent in all on their original + investment, there is a prevailing idea that the certificates of its stocks + are no longer good for any thing, except to light the fire. That’s a + mistake. Long after the company has foundered, its shares float, + like the shattered debris which the sea casts upon the beach months after + the ship has been wrecked. These shares M. Latterman collects, and + carefully stores away; and upon the shelves of his office you may see + numberless shares and bonds of those numerous companies which have + absorbed, in the past twenty years, according to some statistics, twelve + hundred millions, and, according to others, two thousand millions, of the + public fortune. + </p> + <p> + Say but a word, and his clerks will offer you some “Franco-American + Company,” some “Steam Navigation Company of Marseilles,” + some “Coal and Metal Company of the Asturias,” some “Transcontinental + Memphis and El Paso” (of the United States), some “Caumart + Slate Works,” and hundreds of others, which, for the general public, + have no value, save that of old paper, that is from three to five cents a + pound. And yet speculators are found who buy and sell these rags. + </p> + <p> + In an obscure corner of the bourse may be seen a miscellaneous population + of old men with pointed beards, and overdressed young men, who deal in + every thing salable, and other things besides. There are found + foreign merchants, who will offer you stocks of merchandise, goods from + auction, good claims to recover, and who at last will take out of their + pockets an opera-glass, a Geneva watch (smuggled in), a revolver, or a + bottle of patent hair-restorer. + </p> + <p> + Such is the market to which drift those shares which were once issued to + represent millions, and which now represent nothing but a palpable proof + of the audacity of swindlers, and the credulity of their dupes. And + there are actually buyers for these shares, and they go up or down, + according to the ordinary laws of supply and demand; for there is a demand + for them, and here comes in the usefulness of M. Latterman’s business. + </p> + <p> + Does a tradesman, on the eve of declaring himself bankrupt, wish to + defraud his creditors of a part of his assets, to conceal excessive + expenses, or cover up some embezzlement, at once he goes to the Rue + Joquelet, procures a select assortment of “Cantonal Credit,” + “Rossdorif Mines,” or “Maumusson Salt Works,” and + puts them carefully away in his safe. + </p> + <p> + And, when the receiver arrives, + </p> + <p> + “There are my assets,” he says. “I have there some + twenty, fifty, or a hundred thousand francs of stocks, the whole of which + is not worth five francs to-day; but it isn’t my fault. I thought it + a good investment; and I didn’t sell, because I always thought the price + would come up again.” + </p> + <p> + And he gets his discharge, because it would really be too cruel to punish + a man because he has made unfortunate investments. + </p> + <p> + Better than any one, M. Latterman knows for what purpose are purchased the + valueless securities which he sells; and he actually advises his customers + which to take in preference, in order that their purchase at the time of + their issue may appear more natural, and more likely. Nevertheless, + he claims to be a perfectly honest man, and declares that he is no more + responsible for the swindles that are committed by means of his stocks + than a gunsmith for a murder committed with a gun that he has sold. + </p> + <p> + “But he will surely be able to tell us all about the Mutual Credit,” + repeated Maxence to M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Four o’clock struck when the carriage stopped in the Rue Joquelet. + The bourse had just closed; and a few groups were still standing in the + square, or along the railings. + </p> + <p> + “I hope we shall find this Latterman at home,” said Maxence. + </p> + <p> + They started up the stairs (for it is up on the second floor that this + worthy operator has his offices); and, having inquired, + </p> + <p> + “M. Latterman is engaged with a customer,” answered a + clerk. “Please sit down and wait.” + </p> + <p> + M. Latterman’s office was like all other caverns of the same kind. A + very narrow space was reserved to the public; and all around, behind a + heavy wire screen, the clerks could be seen busy with figures, or handling + coupons. On the right, over a small window, appeared the word, + “CASHIER.” A small door on the left led to the private + office. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars and Maxence had patiently taken a seat on a hard leather + bench, once red; and they were listening and looking on. + </p> + <p> + There was considerable animation about the place. Every few minutes, + well-dressed young men came in with a hurried and important look, and, + taking out of their pocket a memorandum-book, they would speak a few + sentences of that peculiar dialect, bristling with figures, which is the + language of the bourse. At the end of fifteen or twenty minutes, + </p> + <p> + “Will M. Latterman be engaged much longer?” inquired M. de + Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know,” replied a clerk. + </p> + <p> + At that very moment, the little door on the left opened, and the customer + came out who had detained M. Latterman so long. This customer was no + other than M. Costeclar. Noticing M. de Tregars and Maxence, who had + risen at the noise of the door, he appeared most disagreeably surprised. + He even turned slightly pale, and took a step backwards, as if intending + to return precipitately into the room that he was leaving; for M. + Latterman’s office, like that of all other large operators, had several + doors, without counting the one that leads to the police-court. But + M. de Tregars gave him no time to effect this retreat. Stepping + suddenly forward, + </p> + <p> + “Well?” he asked him in a tone that was almost threatening. + </p> + <p> + The brilliant financier had condescended to take off his hat, usually + riveted upon his head, and, with the smile of a knave caught in the act, + </p> + <p> + “I did not expect to meet you here, my lord-marquis,” he said. + </p> + <p> + At the title of “marquis,” everybody looked up. “I + believe you, indeed,” said M. de Tregars. “But what I + want to know is, how is the matter progressing?” + </p> + <p> + “The plot is thickening. Justice is acting.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a fact. Jules Jottras, of the house of Jottras and + Brother, was arrested this morning, just as he arrived at the bourse.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because, it seems, he was an accomplice of Favoral; and it was he + who sold the bonds stolen from the Mutual Credit.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence had started at the mention of his father’s name but, with a + significant glance, M. de Tregars bid him remain silent, and, in a + sarcastic tone, + </p> + <p> + “Famous capture!” he murmured. “And which proves + the clear-sightedness of justice.” + </p> + <p> + “But this is not all,” resumed M. Costeclar. “Saint + Pavin, the editor of ‘The Financial Pilot,’ you know, is + thought to be seriously compromised. There was a rumor, at the close + of the market, that a warrant either had been, or was about to be, issued + against him.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Baron de Thaller?” + </p> + <p> + The employes of the office could not help admiring M. Costeclar’s + extraordinary amount of patience. + </p> + <p> + “The baron,” he replied, “made his appearance at the + bourse this afternoon, and was the object of a veritable ovation.” + </p> + <p> + “That is admirable! And what did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “That the damage was already repaired.” + </p> + <p> + “Then the shares of the Mutual Credit must have advanced.” + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately, not. They did not go above one hundred and ten + francs.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you not astonished at that?” + </p> + <p> + “Not much, because, you see, I am a business-man, I am; and I know + pretty well how things work. When they left M. de Thaller this + morning, the stockholders of the Mutual Credit had a meeting; and they + pledged themselves, upon honor, not to sell, so as not to break the + market. As soon as they had separated, each one said to himself, + ‘Since the others are going to keep their stock, like fools, I am + going to sell mine.’ Now, as there were three or four hundred + of them who argued the same way, the market was flooded with shares.” + </p> + <p> + Looking the brilliant financier straight in the eyes, + </p> + <p> + “And yourself?” interrupted M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “I!” stammered M. Costeclar, so visibly agitated, that the + clerks could not help laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I wish to know if you have been more faithful to your + word than the stockholders of whom you are speaking, and whether you have + done as we had agreed.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; and, if you find me here—” + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars, placing his own hand over his shoulder, stopped him + short. + </p> + <p> + “I think I know what brought you here,” he uttered; “and + in a few moments I shall have ascertained.” + </p> + <p> + “I swear to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t swear. If I am mistaken, so much the better for you. + If I am not mistaken, I’ll prove to you that it is dangerous to try any + sharp game on me, though I am not a business-man.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime M. Latterman, seeing no customer coming to take the place of the + one who had left, became impatient at last, and appeared upon the + threshold of his private office. + </p> + <p> + He was a man still young, small, thick-set, and vulgar. At the first + glance, nothing of him could be seen but his abdomen,—a big, great, + and ponderous abdomen, seat of his thoughts, and tabernacle of his + aspirations, over which dangled a double gold chain, loaded with trinkets. + Above an apoplectic neck, red as that of a turkey-cock, stood his little + head, covered with coarse red hair, cut very short. He wore a heavy + beard, trimmed in the form of a fan. His large, full-moon face was + divided in two by a nose as flat as a Kalmuck’s, and illuminated by two + small eyes, in which could be read the most thorough duplicity. + </p> + <p> + Seeing M. de Tregars and M. Costeclar engaged in conversation, + </p> + <p> + “Why! you know each other?” he said. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars advanced a step, + </p> + <p> + “We are even intimate friends,” he replied. “And + it is very lucky that we should have met. I am brought here by the + same matter as our dear Costeclar; and I was just explaining to him that + he has been too hasty, and that it would be best to wait three or four + days longer.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s just what I told him,” echoed the honorable financier. + </p> + <p> + Maxence understood only one thing,—that M. de Tregars had penetrated + M. Costeclar’s designs; and he could not sufficiently admire his presence + of mind, and his skill in grasping an unexpected opportunity. + </p> + <p> + “Fortunately there is nothing done yet,” added M. Latterman. + </p> + <p> + “And it is yet time to alter what has been agreed on,” said M. + de Tregars. And, addressing himself to Costeclar, + </p> + <p> + “Come,” he added, “we’ll fix things with M. Latterman.” + </p> + <p> + But the other, who remembered the scene in the Rue St. Gilles, and who had + his own reasons to be alarmed, would sooner have jumped out of the window. + </p> + <p> + “I am expected,” he stammered. “Arrange matters + without me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you give me carte blanche?” + </p> + <p> + Ah, if the brilliant financier had dared! But he felt upon him such + threatening eyes, that he dared not even make a gesture of denial. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever you do will be satisfactory,” he said in the tone of + a man who sees himself lost. + </p> + <p> + And, as he was going out of the door, M. de Tregars stepped into M. + Latterman’s private office. He remained only five minutes; and when + he joined Maxence, whom he had begged to wait for him, + </p> + <p> + “I think that we have got them,” he said as they walked off. + </p> + <p> + Their next visit was to M. Saint Pavin, at the office of “The + Financial Pilot.” Every one must have seen at least one copy + of that paper with its ingenious vignette, representing a bold mariner + steering a boat, filled with timid passengers, towards the harbor of + Million, over a stormy sea, bristling with the rocks of failure and the + shoals of ruin. The office of “The Pilot” is, in fact, + less a newspaper office than a sort of general business agency. + </p> + <p> + As at M. Latterman’s, there are clerks scribbling behind wire screens, + small windows, a cashier, and an immense blackboard, on which the latest + quotations of the Rente, and other French and foreign securities, are + written in chalk. + </p> + <p> + As “The Pilot” spends some hundred thousand francs a year in + advertising, in order to obtain subscribers; as, on the other hand, it + only costs three francs a year,—it is clear that it is not on its + subscriptions that it realizes any profits. It has other sources of + income: its brokerages first; for it buys, sells, and executes, as + the prospectus says, all orders for stocks, bonds, or other securities, + for the best interests of the client. And it has plenty of business. + </p> + <p> + To the opulent brokerages, must be added advertising and puffing, —another + mine. Six times out of ten, when a new enterprise is set on foot, + the organizers send for Saint Pavin. Honest men, or knaves, they + must all pass through his hands. They know it, and are resigned in + advance. + </p> + <p> + “We rely upon you,” they say to him. + </p> + <p> + “What advantages have you to offer?” he replies. + </p> + <p> + Then they discuss the operation, the expected profits of the new company, + and M. Saint Pavin’s demands. For a hundred thousand francs he + promises bursts of lyrism; for fifty thousand he will be enthusiastic + only. Twenty thousand francs will secure a moderate praise of the + affair; ten thousand, a friendly neutrality. And, if the said + company refuses any advantages to “The Pilot”— + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you must beware!” says Saint Pavin. + </p> + <p> + And from the very next number he commences his campaign. He is + moderate at first, and leaves a door open for his retreat. He puts + forth doubts only. He does not know much about it. “It + may be an excellent thing; it may be a wretched one: the safest is + to wait and see.” + </p> + <p> + That’s the first hint. If it remains without result, he takes up his + pen again, and makes his doubts more pointed. + </p> + <p> + He knows how to steer clear of libel suits, how to handle figures so as to + demonstrate, according to the requirements of the case, that two and two + make three, or make five. It is seldom, that, before the third + article, the company does not surrender at discretion. + </p> + <p> + All Paris knows him; and he has many friends. When M. de Tregars and + Maxence arrived, they found the office full of people —speculators, + brokers, go-betweens—come there to discuss the fluctuations of the + day and the probabilities of the evening market. + </p> + <p> + “M. Saint Pavin is engaged,” one of the clerks told + them. + </p> + <p> + Indeed, his coarse voice could be distinctly heard behind the screen. + Soon he appeared, showing out an old gentleman, who seemed utterly + confused at the scene, and to whom he was screaming, + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, no! ‘The Financial Pilot’ does not take + that sort of business; and I find you very bold to come and propose to me + a twopenny rascality.” But, noticing Maxence, + </p> + <p> + “M. Favoral!” he said. “By Jove! it is your + good star that has brought you here. Come into the private office, + my dear sir: come, we’ll have some fun now.” + </p> + <p> + Many of the people who were in the office had a word to say to M. Saint + Pavin, some advice to ask him, an order to transmit, or some news to + communicate. They had all stepped forward, and were holding out + their hands with a friendly smile. He set them aside with his usual + rudeness. + </p> + <p> + “By and by. I am busy now: leave me alone.” + </p> + <p> + And pushing Maxence towards the office-door, which he had just opened, + </p> + <p> + “Come in, come in!” he said in a tone of extraordinary + impatience. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars was coming in too; and, as he did not know him, + </p> + <p> + “What do you want, you?” he asked roughly. + </p> + <p> + “The gentleman is my best friend,” said Maxence, turning to + him; “and I have no secret from him.” + </p> + <p> + “Let him walk in, then; but, by Heaven, let us hurry!” + </p> + <p> + Once very sumptuous, the private office of the editor of “The + Financial Pilot” had fallen into a state of sordid dilapidation. + If the janitor had received orders never to use a broom or a duster there, + he obeyed them strictly. Disorder and dirt reigned supreme. + Papers and manuscripts lay in all directions; and on the broad sofas the + mud from the boots of all those who had lounged upon them had been drying + for months. On the mantel-piece, in the midst of some half-dozen + dirty glasses, stood a bottle of Madeira, half empty. Finally, + before the fireplace, on the carpet, and along the furniture, cigar and + cigarette stumps were heaped in profusion. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he had bolted the door, coming straight to Maxence, + </p> + <p> + “What has become of your father?” inquired M. Saint Pavin + rudely. + </p> + <p> + Maxence started. That was the last question he expected to hear. + </p> + <p> + “I do not know,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + The manager of “The Pilot” shrugged his shoulders. + “That you should say so to the commissary of police, to the judges, + and to all Favoral’s enemies, I understand: it is your duty. + That they should believe you, I understand too; for, after all, what do + they care? But to me, a friend, though you may not think so, and who + has reasons not to be credulous——” + </p> + <p> + “I swear to you that we have no idea where he has taken refuge.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence said this with such an accent of sincerity, that doubt was no + longer possible. M. Saint Pavin’s features expressed the utmost + surprise. + </p> + <p> + “What!” he exclaimed, “your father has gone without + securing the means of hearing from his family?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Without saying a word of his intentions to your mother, or your + sister, or yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Without one word.” + </p> + <p> + “Without leaving any money, perhaps?” + </p> + <p> + “We found only an insignificant sum after he left.” The + editor of “The Pilot” made a gesture of ironical admiration. + “Well, the thing is complete,” he said; “and Vincent is + a smarter fellow than I gave him credit for; or else he must have cared + more for those infernal women of his than any one supposed.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars, who had remained hitherto silent, now stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “What women?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “How do I know?” he replied roughly. “How could + any one ever find out any thing about a man who was more hermetically shut + up in his coat than a Jesuit in his gown?” + </p> + <p> + “M. Costeclar—” + </p> + <p> + “That’s another nice bird! Still he may possibly have + discovered something of Vincent’s life; for he led him a pretty dance. + Wasn’t he about to marry Mlle. Favoral once?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, in spite of herself even.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are right: he had discovered something. But, + if you rely on him to tell you anything whatever, you are reckoning + without your host.” + </p> + <p> + “Who knows?” murmured M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + But M. Saint Pavin heard him not. Prey to a violent agitation, he + was pacing up and down the room. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, those men of cold appearance,” he growled, “those + men with discreet countenance, those close-shaving calculators, those + moralists! What fools they do make of themselves when once started! + Who can imagine to what insane extremities this one may have been driven + under the spur of some mad passion!” + </p> + <p> + And stamping violently his foot upon the carpet, from which arose clouds + of dust, + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he swore, “I must find him. And, by + thunder! wherever he may be hid, I shall find him.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was watching M. Saint Pavin with a scrutinizing eye. + </p> + <p> + “You have a great interest in finding him, then?” he said. + </p> + <p> + The other stopped short. + </p> + <p> + “I have the interest,” he replied, “of a man who thought + himself shrewd, and who has been taken in like a child,—of a man to + whom they had promised wonders, and who finds his situation imperilled, + —of a man who is tired of working for a band of brigands who heap + millions upon millions, and to whom, for all reward, they offer the + police-court and a retreat in the State Prison for his old age, —in + a word, the interests of a man who will and shall have revenge, by all + that is holy!” + </p> + <p> + “On whom?” + </p> + <p> + “On the Baron de Thaller, sir! How, in the world, has he been + able to compel Favoral to assume the responsibility of all, and to + disappear? What enormous sum has he given to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” interrupted Maxence, “my father went off without + a sou.” + </p> + <p> + M. Saint Pavin burst out in a loud laugh. + </p> + <p> + “And the twelve millions?” he asked. “What has + become of them? Do you suppose they have been distributed in deeds + of charity?” + </p> + <p> + And without waiting for any further objections, + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he went on, “it is not with money alone that + a man can be induced to disgrace himself, to confess himself a thief and a + forger, to brave the galleys, to give up everything,—country, + family, friends. Evidently the Baron de Thaller must have had other + means of action, some hold on Favoral—” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “You speak,” he said, “as if you were absolutely certain + of M. de Thaller’s complicity.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Why don’t you inform on him, then?” + </p> + <p> + The editor of “The Pilot” started back. “What!” + he exclaimed, “draw the fingers of the law into my own business! + You don’t think of it! Besides, what good would that do me? I + have no proofs of my allegations. Do you suppose that Thaller has + not taken his precautions, and tied my hands? No, no! without + Favoral there is nothing to be done.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you suppose, then, that you could induce him to surrender + himself?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but to furnish me the proofs I need, to send Thaller where they + have already sent that poor Jottras.” + </p> + <p> + And, becoming more and more excited, + </p> + <p> + “But it is not in a month that I should want those proofs,” he + went on, “nor even in two weeks, but to-morrow, but at this very + moment. Before the end of the week, Thaller will have wound up the + operation, realized, Heaven knows how many millions, and put every thing + in such nice order, that justice, who in financial matters is not of the + first capacity, will discover nothing wrong. If he can do that, he + is safe, he is beyond reach, and will be dubbed a first-class financier. + Then to what may he not aspire! Already he talks of having himself + elected deputy; and he says everywhere that he has found, to marry his + daughter, a gentleman who bears one of the oldest names in France,—the + Marquis de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is the Marquis de Tregars!” exclaimed Maxence, + pointing to Marius. + </p> + <p> + For the first time, M. Saint Pavin took the trouble to examine his + visitor; and he, who knew life too well not to be a judge of men, he + seemed surprised. + </p> + <p> + “Please excuse me, sir,” he uttered with a politeness very + different from his usual manner, “and permit me to ask you if you + know the reasons why M. de Thaller is so prodigiously anxious to have you + for a son-in-law.” + </p> + <p> + “I think,” replied M. de Tregars coldly, “that M. de + Thaller would not be sorry to deprive me of the right to seek the causes + of my father’s ruin.” + </p> + <p> + But he was interrupted by a great noise of voices in the adjoining room; + and almost at once there was a loud knock at the door, and a voice called, + </p> + <p> + “In the name of the law!” + </p> + <p> + The editor of “The Pilot” had become whiter than his shirt. + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I was afraid of,” he said. “Thaller + has got ahead of me; and perhaps I may be lost.” + </p> + <p> + Meantime he did not lose his wits. Quick as thought he took out of a + drawer a package of letters, threw them into the fireplace, and set fire + to them, saying, in a voice made hoarse by emotion and anger, + </p> + <p> + “No one shall come in until they are burnt.” + </p> + <p> + But it required an incredibly long time to make them catch fire; and M. + Saint Pavin, kneeling before the hearth, was stirring them up, and + scattering them, to make them burn faster. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” said M. de Tregars, “will you hesitate to + deliver up the Baron de Thaller into the hands of justice?” + </p> + <p> + He turned around with flashing eyes. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” he replied, “if I wish to save myself, I must + save him too. Don’t you understand that he holds me?” + </p> + <p> + And, seeing that the last sheets of his correspondence were consumed, + </p> + <p> + “You may open now,” he said to Maxence. + </p> + <p> + Maxence obeyed; and a commissary of police, wearing his scarf of office, + rushed into the room; whilst his men, not without difficulty, kept back + the crowd in the outer office. + </p> + <p> + The commissary, who was an old hand, and had perhaps been on a hundred + expeditions of this kind, had surveyed the scene at a glance. + Noticing in the fireplace the carbonized debris, upon which still + fluttered an expiring flame, + </p> + <p> + “That’s the reason, then,” he said, “why you were so + long opening the door?” + </p> + <p> + A sarcastic smile appeared upon the lips of the editor of “The + Pilot.” + </p> + <p> + “Private matters,” he replied; “women’s letters.” + </p> + <p> + “This will be moral evidence against you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I prefer it to material evidence.” + </p> + <p> + Without condescending to notice the impertinence, the commissary was + casting a suspicious glance on Maxence and M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “Who are these gentlemen who were closeted with you?” he + asked. + </p> + <p> + “Visitors, sir. This is M. Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + “The son of the cashier of the Mutual Credit?” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly; and this gentleman is the Marquis de Tregars.” + </p> + <p> + “You should have opened the door when you heard a knocking in the + name of the law,” grumbled the commissary. + </p> + <p> + But he did not insist. Taking a paper from his pocket, he opened it, + and, handing it to M. Saint Pavin, + </p> + <p> + “I have orders to arrest you,” he said. “Here is + the warrant.” + </p> + <p> + With a careless gesture, the other pushed it back. “What’s the + use of reading?” he said. “When I heard of the arrest of + that poor Jottras, I guessed at once what was in store for me. It is + about the Mutual Credit swindle, I imagine.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no more to do with it than yourself, sir; and I shall have + very little trouble in proving it. But that is not your business. + And you are going, I suppose, to put the seals on my papers?” + </p> + <p> + “Except on those that you have burnt.” + </p> + <p> + M. Saint Pavin burst out laughing. He had recovered his coolness and + his impudence, and seemed as much at ease as if it were the most natural + thing in the world. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I be allowed to speak to my clerks,” he asked, “and + to give them my instructions?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” replied the commissary, “but in my presence.” + </p> + <p> + The clerks, being called, appeared, consternation depicted upon their + countenances, but joy sparkling in their eyes. In reality they were + delighted at the misfortune which befell their employer. + </p> + <p> + “You see what happens to me, my boys,” he said. “But + don’t be uneasy. In less than forty-eight hours, the error of which + I am the victim will be recognized, and I shall be liberated on bail. + At any rate, I can rely upon you, can’t I?” + </p> + <p> + They all swore that they would be more attentive and more zealous than + ever. + </p> + <p> + And then addressing himself to his cashier, who was his confidential and + right-hand man, + </p> + <p> + “As to you, Bernard,” he said, “you will run to M. de + Thaller’s, and advise him of what’s going on. Let him have funds + ready; for all our depositors will want to draw out their money at once. + You will then call at the printing-office: have my article on the + Mutual Credit kept out, and insert in its place some financial news cut + out from other papers. Above all, don’t mention my arrest, unless M. + de Thaller should demand it. Go ahead, and let ‘The Pilot’ + appear as usual: that’s important.” + </p> + <p> + He had, whilst speaking, lighted a cigar. The honest man, victim of + human iniquity, has not a firmer and more tranquil countenance. + </p> + <p> + “Justice does not know,” he said to the commissary, who was + fumbling in all the drawers of the desk, “what irreparable damage + she may cause by arresting so hastily a man who has charge of immense + interests like me. It is the fortune of ten or twelve small + capitalists that is put in jeopardy.” + </p> + <p> + Already the witnesses of the arrest had retired, one by one, to go and + scatter the news along the Boulevard, and also to see what could be made + out of it; for, at the bourse, news is money. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars and Maxence left also. As they passed the door, + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you say any thing about what I told you,” M. Saint + Pavin recommended to them. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars made no answer. He had the contracted features and + tightly-drawn lips of a man who is maturing a grave determination, which, + once taken, will be irrevocable. + </p> + <p> + Once in the street, and when Maxence had opened the carriage-door, + </p> + <p> + “We are going to separate here,” he told him in that brief + tone of voice which reveals a settled plan. “I know enough now + to venture to call at M. de Thaller’s. There only shall I be able to + see how to strike the decisive blow. Return to the Rue St. Gilles, + and relieve your mother’s and sister’s anxiety. You shall see me + during the evening, I promise you.” + </p> + <p> + And, without waiting for an answer, he jumped into the cab, which started + off. + </p> + <p> + But it was not to the Rue St. Gilles that Maxence went. He was + anxious, first, to see Mlle. Lucienne, to tell her the events of that day, + the busiest of his existence; to tell her his discoveries, his surprises, + his anxieties, and his hopes. + </p> + <p> + To his great surprise, he failed to find her at the Hotel des Folies. + She had gone riding at three o’clock, M. Fortin told him, and had not yet + returned; but she could not be much longer, as it was already getting + dark. Maxence went out again then, to see if he could not meet her. + He had walked a little way along the Boulevard, when, at some distance + off, on the Place du Chateau d’Eau, he thought he noticed an unusual + bustle. Almost immediately he heard shouts of terror. + Frightened people were running in all directions; and right before him a + carriage, going at full gallop, passed like a flash. + </p> + <p> + But, quick as it had passed, he had time to recognize Mlle. Lucienne, + pale, and clinging desperately to the seat. Wild with fear, he + started after it as fast as he could run. It was clear that the + driver had no control over his horses. A policeman who tried to stop + them was knocked down. Ten steps farther, the hind-wheel of the + carriage, catching the wheel of a heavy wagon, broke to splinters; and + Mlle. Lucienne was thrown into the street, whilst the driver fell over on + the sidewalk. + </p> + <h2> + VI + </h2> + <p> + The Baron de Thaller was too practical a man to live in the same house, or + even in the same district, where his offices were located. To dwell + in the midst of his business; to be constantly subjected to the contact of + his employes, to the unkindly comments of a crowd of subordinates; to + expose himself to hourly annoyances, to sickening solicitations, to the + reclamations and eternal complaints of his stockholders and his clients! + Pouah! He’d have given up the business first. And so, on the + very days when he had established the offices of the Mutual Credit in the + Rue de Quatre-Septembre, he had purchased a house in the Rue de la + Pepiniere within a step of the Faubourg St. Honore. + </p> + <p> + It was a brand-new house, which had never yet been occupied, and which had + just been erected by a contractor who was almost celebrated, towards 1866, + at the moment of the great transformations of Paris, when whole blocks + were leveled to the ground, and rose again so rapidly, that one might well + wonder whether the masons, instead of a trowel, did not make use of a + magician’s wand. + </p> + <p> + This contractor, named Parcimieux, had come from the Limousin in 1860 with + his carpenter’s tools for all fortune, and, in less than six years, had + accumulated, at the lowest estimate, six millions of francs. Only he + was a modest man, and took as much pains to conceal his fortune, and + offend no one, as most <i>parvenus</i> do to display their wealth, and + insult the public. + </p> + <p> + Though he could hardly sign his name, yet he knew and practised the maxim + of the Greek philosopher, which is, perhaps, the true secret of happiness,—hide + thy life. And there were no expedients to which he did not resort to + hide it. At the time of his greatest prosperity, for instance, + having need of a carriage, he had applied to the manager of the Petites + Voitures Company, and had had built for himself two cabs, outwardly + similar in every respect to those used by the company, but within, most + luxuriously upholstered, and drawn by horses of common appearance, but who + could go their twenty-five miles in two hours any day. And these he + had hired by the year. + </p> + <p> + Having his carriage, the worthy builder determined to have, also, his + house, his own house, built by himself. But this required infinitely + greater precautions still. + </p> + <p> + “For, as you may imagine,” he explained to his friends, + “a man does not make as much money as I have, without also making + many cruel, bitter, and irreconcilable enemies. I have against me + all the builders who have not succeeded, all the sub-contractors I employ, + and who say that I speculate on their poverty, and the thousands of + workmen who work for me, and swear that I grind them down to the dust. + Already they call me brigand, slaver, thief, leech. What would it + be, if they saw me living in a beautiful house of my own? They’d + swear that I could not possibly have got so rich honestly, and that I must + have committed some crimes. Besides, to build me a handsome house on + the street would be, in case of a mob, setting up windows for the stones + of all the rascals who have been in my employment.” + </p> + <p> + Such were M. Parcimieux’s thoughts, when, as he expressed it, he resolved + to build. + </p> + <p> + A lot was for sale in the Rue de la Pepiniere. He bought it, and at + the same time purchased the adjoining house, which he immediately caused + to be torn down. This operation placed in his possession a vast + piece of ground, not very wide, but of great depth, stretching, as it did, + back to the Rue Labaume. At once work was begun according to a plan + which his architect and himself had spent six months in maturing. On + the line of the street arose a house of the most modest appearance, two + stories in height only, with a very high and very wide carriage-door for + the passage of vehicles. This was to deceive the vulgar eye,—the + outside of the cab, as it were. Behind this house, between a + spacious court and a vast garden was built the residence of which M. + Parcimieux had dreamed; and it really was an exceptional building both by + the excellence of the materials used, and by the infinite care which + presided over the minutest details. The marbles for the vestibule + and the stairs were brought from Africa, Italy, and Corsica. He sent + to Rome for workmen for the mosaics. The joiner and locksmithing + work was intrusted to real artists. + </p> + <p> + Repeating to every one that he was working for a great foreign lord, whose + orders he went to take every morning, he was free to indulge his most + extravagant fancies, without fearing jests or unpleasant remarks. + </p> + <p> + Poor old man! The day when the last workman had driven in the last + nail, an attack of apoplexy carried him off, without giving him time to + say, “Oh!” Two days after, all his relatives from the + Limousin were swooping into Paris like a pack of wolves. Six + millions to divide: what a godsend! Litigation followed, as a + matter of course; and the house was offered for sale under a judgment. + </p> + <p> + M. de Thaller bought it for two hundred and seventy-five thousand francs,—about + one-third what it had cost to build. + </p> + <p> + A month later he had moved into it; and the expenses which he incurred to + furnish it in a style worthy of the building itself was the talk of the + town. And yet he was not fully satisfied with his purchase. + </p> + <p> + Unlike M. Parcimieux, he had no wish whatever to conceal his wealth. + </p> + <p> + What! he owned one of those exquisite houses which excite at once the + wonder and the envy of passers-by, and that house was hid behind such a + common-looking building! + </p> + <p> + “I must have that shanty pulled down,” he said from time to + time. + </p> + <p> + And then he thought of something else; and the “shanty” was + still standing on that evening, when, after leaving Maxence, M. de Tregars + presented himself at M. de Thaller’s. + </p> + <p> + The servants had, doubtless, received their instructions; for, as soon as + Marius emerged from the porch of the front-house, the porter advanced from + his lodge, bent double, his mouth open to his very ears by the most + obsequious smile. + </p> + <p> + Without waiting for a question, + </p> + <p> + “The baron has not yet come home—,” he said. + “But he cannot be much longer away; and certainly the baroness is at + home for my lord-marquis. Please, then, give yourself the trouble to + pass.” + </p> + <p> + And, standing aside, he struck upon the enormous gong that stood near his + lodge a single sharp blow, intended to wake up the footman on duty in the + vestibule, and to announce a visitor of note. Slowly, but not + without quietly observing every thing, M. de Tregars crossed the + courtyard, covered with fine sand,—they would have powdered it with + golden dust, if they had dared,—and surrounded on all sides with + bronze baskets, in which beautiful rhododendrons were blossoming. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly six o’clock. The manager of the Mutual Credit dined at + seven; and the preparations for this important event were everywhere + apparent. Through the large windows of the dining-room the steward + could be seen presiding over the setting of the table. The butler + was coming up from the cellar, loaded with bottles. Finally, through + the apertures of the basement arose the appetizing perfumes of the + kitchen. + </p> + <p> + What enormous business it required to support such a style, to display + this luxury, which would shame one of those German princelings, who + exchanged the crown of their ancestors for a Prussian livery gilded with + French gold!—other people’s money. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, the blow struck by the porter on the gong had produced the + desired effect; and the gates of the vestibule seemed to open of their own + accord before M. de Tregars as he ascended the stoop. + </p> + <p> + This vestibule with the splendor of which Mlle. Lucienne had been so + deeply impressed, would, indeed, have been worthy the attention of an + artist, had it been allowed to retain the simple grandeur and the severe + harmony which M. Parcimieux’s architect had imparted to it. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Thaller, as he was proud of boasting, had a perfect horror of + simplicity; and, wherever he discovered a vacant space as big as his hand, + he hung a picture, a bronze, or a piece of china, any thing and anyhow. + </p> + <p> + The two footmen were standing when M. de Tregars came in. Without + asking any question, “Will M. le Marquis please follow me?” + said the youngest. + </p> + <p> + And, opening the broad glass doors, he began walking in front of M. de + Tregars, along a staircase with marble railing, the elegant proportions of + which were absolutely ruined by a ridiculous profusion of “objects + of art” of all nature, and from all sources. This staircase + led to a vast semicircular landing, upon which, between columns of + precious marble, opened three wide doors. The footman opened the + middle one, which led to M. de Thaller’s picture-gallery, a celebrated one + in the financial world, and which had acquired for him the reputation of + an enlightened amateur. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars had no time to examine this gallery, which, moreover, he + already knew well enough. The footman showed him into the small + drawing-room of the baroness, a bijou of a room, furnished in gilt and + crimson satin. + </p> + <p> + “Will M. le Marquis be kind enough to take a seat?” he said. + “I run to notify Mme. le Baronne of M. le Marquis’s visit.” + </p> + <p> + The footman uttered these titles of nobility with a singular pomp, and as + if some of their lustre was reflected upon himself. Nevertheless, it + was evident that “Marquis” jingled to his ear much more + pleasantly than “Baronne.” + </p> + <p> + Remaining alone, M. de Tregars threw himself upon a seat. Worn out + by the emotions of the day, and by an extraordinary contention of mind, he + felt thankful for this moment of respite, which permitted him, at the + moment of a decisive step, to collect all his energy and all his presence + of mind. + </p> + <p> + And after two minutes he was so deeply absorbed in his thoughts, that he + started, like a man suddenly aroused from his sleep, at the sound of an + opening door. At the same moment he heard a slight exclamation of + surprise, “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + Instead of the Baroness de Thaller, it was her daughter, Mlle. Cesarine, + who had come in. + </p> + <p> + Stepping forward to the centre of the room, and acknowledging by a + familiar gesture M. de Tregars’ most respectful bow, + </p> + <p> + “You should warn people,” she said. “I came here + to look for my mother, and it is you I find. Why, you scared me to + death. What a crack! Princess dear!” + </p> + <p> + And taking the young man’s hand, and pressing it to her breast, + </p> + <p> + “Feel,” she added, “how my heart beats.” + </p> + <p> + Younger than Mlle. Gilberte, Mlle. Cesarine de Thaller had a reputation + for beauty so thoroughly established, that to call it in question would + have seemed a crime to her numerous admirers. And really she was a + handsome person. Rather tall and well made, she had broad hips, the + waist round and supple as a steel rod, and a magnificent throat. Her + neck was, perhaps, a little too thick and too short; but upon her robust + shoulders was scattered in wild ringlets the rebellious hair that escaped + from her comb. She was a blonde, but of that reddish blonde, almost + as dark as mahogany, which Titian admired, and which the handsome + Venetians obtained by means of rather repulsive practices, and by exposing + themselves to the noonday sun on the terraces of their palaces. Her + complexion had the gilded hues of amber. Her lips, red as blood, + displayed as they opened, teeth of dazzling whiteness. In her large + prominent eyes, of a milky blue, like the Northern skies, laughed the + eternal irony of a soul that no longer has faith in any thing. More + anxious of her fame than of good taste, she wore a dress of doubtful + shade, puffed up by means of an extravagant pannier, and buttoned + obliquely across the chest, according to that ridiculous and ungraceful + style invented by flat or humped women. + </p> + <p> + Throwing herself upon a chair, and placing cavalierly one foot upon + another, so as to display her leg, which was admirable, + </p> + <p> + “Do you know that it’s perfectly stunning to see you here?” + she said to M. de Tregars. “Just imagine, for a moment, what a + face the Baron Three Francs Sixty-eight will make when he sees you!” + </p> + <p> + It was her father whom she called thus, since the day when she had + discovered that there was a German coin called thaler, which represents + three francs and sixty-eight centimes in French currency. + </p> + <p> + “You know, I suppose,” she went on, “that papa has just + been badly stuck?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was excusing himself in vague terms; but it was one of Mlle. + Cesarine’s habits never to listen to the answers which were made to her + questions. + </p> + <p> + “Favoral,” she continued, “papa’s cashier, has just + started on an international picnic. Did you know him?” + </p> + <p> + “Very little.” + </p> + <p> + “An old fellow, always dressed like a country sexton, and with a + face like an undertaker. And the Baron Three Francs Sixty-eight, an + old bird, was fool enough to be taken in by him! For he was taken + in. He had a face like a man whose chimney is on fire, when he came + to tell us, mamma and myself, that Favoral had gone off with twelve + millions.” + </p> + <p> + “And has he really carried off that enormous sum?” + </p> + <p> + “Not entire, of course, because it was not since day before + yesterday only that he began digging into the Mutual Credit’s pile. + There were years that this venerable old swell was leading a + somewhat-variegated existence, in company with rather-funny ladies, you + know. And as he was not exactly calculated to be adored at par, why, + it cost papa’s stockholders a pretty lively premium. But, anyhow, he + must have carried off a handsome nugget.” + </p> + <p> + And, bouncing to the piano, she began an accompaniment loud enough to + crack the window-panes, singing at the same time the popular refrain of + the “Young Ladies of Pautin”: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + Cashier, you’ve got the bag; <br /> Quick on your little nag, <br /> And + then, ho, ho, for Belgium! + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Any one but Marius de Tregars would have been doubtless strangely + surprised at Mlle. de Thaller’s manners. But he had known her for + some time already: he was familiar with her past life, her habits, + her tastes, and her pretensions. Until the age of fifteen, Mlle. + Cesarine had remained shut up in one of those pleasant Parisian + boarding-schools, where young ladies are initiated into the great art of + the toilet, and from which they emerge armed with the gayest theories, + knowing how to see without seeming to look, and to lie boldly without + blushing; in a word, ripe for society. The directress of the + boarding-school, a lady of the ton, who had met with reverses, and who was + a good deal more of a dressmaker than a teacher, said of Mlle. Cesarine, + who paid her three thousand five hundred francs a year, + </p> + <p> + “She gives the greatest hopes for the future; and I shall certainly + make a superior woman of her.” + </p> + <p> + But the opportunity was not allowed her. The Baroness de Thaller + discovered, one morning, that it was impossible for her to live without + her daughter, and that her maternal heart was lacerated by a separation + which was against the sacred laws of nature. She took her home, + therefore, declaring that nothing, henceforth, not even her marriage, + should separate them, and that she should finish herself the education of + the dear child. From that moment, in fact, whoever saw the Baroness + de Thaller would also see Mlle. Cesarine following in her wake. + </p> + <p> + A girl of fifteen, discreet and well-trained, is a convenient chaperon; a + chaperon which enables a woman to show herself boldly where she might not + have dared to venture alone. In presence of a mother followed by her + daughter, disconcerted slander hesitates, and dares not speak. + </p> + <p> + Under the pretext that Cesarine was still but a child and of no + consequence, Mme. de Thaller dragged her everywhere,—to the bois and + to the races, visiting and shopping, to balls and parties, to the + watering-places and the seashore, to the restaurant, and to all the + “first nights” at the Palais Royal, the Bouffes, the Varietes, + and the Delassements. It was, therefore, especially at the theatre, + that the education of Mlle. de Thaller, so happily commenced, had received + the finishing touch. At sixteen she was thoroughly familiar with the + repertoire of the genre theatres, imitated Schneider far better than ever + did Silly, and sang with surprising intonations and astonishing gestures + Blanche d’Autigny’s successful moods, and Theresa’s most wanton verses. + </p> + <p> + Between times, she studied the fashion papers, and formed her style in + reading the “Vie Parisienne,” whose most enigmatic articles + had no allusions sufficiently obscure to escape her penetration. + </p> + <p> + She learned to ride on horseback, to fence and to shoot, and distinguished + herself at pigeon-matches. She kept a betting-book, played Trente et + Quarante at Monaco; and Baccarat had no secrets for her. At + Trouville she astonished the natives with the startling novelty of her + bathing-costumes; and, when she found herself the centre of a reasonable + circle of lookers-on, she threw herself in the water with a pluck that + drew upon her the applause of the bathing-masters. She could smoke a + cigarette, empty nearly a glass of champagne; and once her mother was + obliged to bring her home, and put her quick to bed, because she had + insisted upon trying absinthe, and her conversation had become somewhat + too eccentric. + </p> + <p> + Leading such a life, it was difficult that public opinion should always + spare Mme. and Mlle. de Thaller. There were sceptics who insinuated + that this steadfast friendship between mother and daughter had very much + the appearance of the association of two women bound together by the + complicity of a common secret. A broker told how, one evening, or + one night rather, for it was nearly two o’clock, happening to pass in + front of the Moulin-Rouge, he had seen the Baroness and Mlle. Cesarine + coming out, accompanied by a gentleman, to him unknown, but who, he was + quite sure, was not the Baron de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + A certain journey which mother and daughter had undertaken in the heart of + the winter, and which had lasted not less than two months, had been + generally attributed to an imprudence, the consequences of which it had + become impossible to conceal. They had been in Italy, they said when + they returned; but no one had seen them there. Yet, as Mme. and + Mlle. de Thaller’s mode of life was, after all, the same as that of a + great many women who passed for being perfectly proper, as there was no + positive or palpable fact brought against them, as no name was mentioned, + many people shrugged their shoulders, and replied, + </p> + <p> + “Pure slanders.” + </p> + <p> + And why not, since the Baron de Thaller, the most interested party, held + himself satisfied? + </p> + <p> + To the ill-advised friends who ventured some allusions to the public + rumors, he replied, according to his humor, + </p> + <p> + “My daughter can play the mischief generally, if she sees fit. + As I shall give a dowry of a million, she will always find a husband.” + </p> + <p> + Or else, “And what of it? Do not American young ladies enjoy + unlimited freedom? Are they not constantly seen going out with young + gentlemen, or walking or traveling alone? Are they, for all that, + less virtuous than our girls, who are kept under such close watch? + Do they make less faithful wives, or less excellent mothers? + Hypocrisy is not virtue.” + </p> + <p> + To a certain extent, the Manager of the Mutual Credit was right. + </p> + <p> + Already Mlle. de Thaller had had to decide upon several quite suitable + offers of marriage and she had squarely refused them all. + </p> + <p> + “A husband!” she had answered each time. “Thank + you, none for me. I have good enough teeth to eat up my dowry + myself. Later, we’ll see,—when I’ve cut my wisdom teeth, and I + am tired of my bachelor life.” + </p> + <p> + She did not seem near getting tired of it, though she pretended that she + had no more illusions, was thoroughly blasee, had exhausted every + sensation, and that life henceforth had no surprise in reserve for her. + Her reception of M. de Tregars was, therefore, one of Mlle. Cesarine’s + least eccentricities, as was also that sudden fancy; to apply to the + situation one of the most idiotic rondos of her repertoires: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Cashier, you’ve got the bag; <br /> Quick on your little nag” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Neither did she spare him a single verse: and, when she stopped, + </p> + <p> + “I see with pleasure,” said M. de Tregars, “that the + embezzlement of which your father has just been the victim does not in any + way offend your good humor.” + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “Would you have me cry,” she said, “because the + stockholders of the Baron Three Francs Sixty-eight have been swindled? + Console yourself: they are accustomed to it.” + </p> + <p> + And, as M. de Tregars made no answer, + </p> + <p> + “And in all that,” she went on, “I see no one to pity + except the wife and daughter of that old stick Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + “They are, indeed, much to be pitied.” + </p> + <p> + “They say that the mother is a good old thing.” + </p> + <p> + “She is an excellent person.” + </p> + <p> + “And the daughter? Costeclar was crazy about her once. + He made eyes like a carp in love, as he told us, to mamma and myself, + ‘She is an angel, mesdames, an angel! And when I have given + her a little chic!’ Now tell me, is she really as good looking + as all that?” + </p> + <p> + “She is quite good looking.” + </p> + <p> + “Better looking than me?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not the same style, mademoiselle.” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. de Thaller had stopped singing; but she had not left the piano. + Half turned towards M. de Tregars, she ran her fingers listlessly over the + keys, striking a note here and there, as if to punctuate her sentences. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, how nice!” she exclaimed, “and, above all, how + gallant! Really, if you venture often on such declarations, mothers + would be very wrong to trust you alone with their daughters.” + </p> + <p> + “You did not understand me right, mademoiselle.” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly right, on the contrary. I asked you if I was better + looking than Mlle. Favoral; and you replied to me, that it was not the + same style.” + </p> + <p> + “It is because, mademoiselle, there is indeed no possible comparison + between you, who are a wealthy heiress, and whose life is a perpetual + enchantment, and a poor girl, very humble, and very modest, who rides in + the omnibus, and who makes her dresses herself.” + </p> + <p> + A contemptuous smile contracted Mlle. Cesarine’s lips. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” she interrupted. “Men have such funny + tastes!” + </p> + <p> + And, turning around suddenly, she began another rondo, no less famous than + the first, and borrowed, this time, from the third act of the + Petites-Blanchisseuses: + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “What matters the quality? <br /> Beauty alone takes the + prize <br /> Women before man must rise, <br /> And claim perfect + equality.” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + Very attentively M. de Tregars was observing her. He had not been + the dupe of the great surprise she had manifested when she found him in + the little parlor. + </p> + <p> + “She knew I was here,” he thought; “and it is her mother + who has sent her to me. But why? and for what purpose?” + </p> + <p> + “With all that,” she resumed, “I see the sweet Mme. + Favoral and her modest daughter in a terribly tight place. What a + ‘bust,’ marquis!” + </p> + <p> + “They have a great deal of courage, mademoiselle.” + </p> + <p> + “Naturally. But, what is better, the daughter has a splendid + voice: at least, so her professor told Costeclar. Why should + she not go on the stage? Actresses make lots of money, you know. + Papa’ll help her, if she wishes. He has a great deal of influence in + the theatres, papa has.” + </p> + <p> + “Mme. and Mlle. Favoral have friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, yes! Costeclar.” + </p> + <p> + “Others besides.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon; but it seems to me that this one will do to + begin with. He is gallant, Costeclar, extremely gallant, and, + moreover, generous as a lord. Why should he not offer to that + youthful and timid damsel a nice little position in mahogany and rosewood? + That way, we should have the pleasure of meeting her around the lake.” + </p> + <p> + And she began singing again, with a slight variation, + </p> + <blockquote> + <p> + “Manon, who, before the war, <br /> Carried clothes for a living, + <br /> Now for her gains is trusting <br /> To that insane Costeclar.” + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + “Ah, that big red-headed girl is terribly provoking!” thought + M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + But, as he did not as yet understand very clearly what she wished to come + to, he kept on his guard, and remained cold as marble. + </p> + <p> + Already she had again turned towards him. + </p> + <p> + “What a face you are making!” she said. “Are you + jealous of the fiery Costeclar, by chance?” + </p> + <p> + “No, mademoiselle, no!” + </p> + <p> + “Then, why don’t you want him to succeed in his love? But he + will, you’ll see! Five hundred francs on Costeclar! Do you + take it? No? I am sorry. It’s twenty-five napoleons lost + for me. I know very well that Mlle.—what’s her name?” + </p> + <p> + “Gilberte.” + </p> + <p> + “Hallo! a nice name for a cashier’s daughter! I am aware that + she once sent that poor Costeclar and his offer to—Chaillot. + But she had resources then; whilst now—It’s stupid as it can be; but + people have to eat!” + </p> + <p> + “There are still women, mademoiselle, capable of starving to death.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars now felt satisfied. It seemed evident to him that they + had somehow got wind of his intentions; that Mlle. de Thaller had been + sent to feel the ground; and that she only attacked Mlle. Gilberte in + order to irritate him, and compel him, in a moment of anger, to declare + himself. + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” she said, “Mlle. Favoral is like all the others. + If she had to select between the amiable Costeclar and a charcoal furnace, + it is not the furnace she would take.” + </p> + <p> + At all times, Marius de Tregars disliked Mlle. Cesarine to a supreme + degree; but at this moment, without the pressing desire he had to see the + Baron and Baroness de Thaller, he would have withdrawn. + </p> + <p> + “Believe me, mademoiselle,” he uttered coldly. “Spare + a poor girl stricken by a most cruel misfortune. Worse might happen + to you.” + </p> + <p> + “To me! And what the mischief do you suppose can happen me?” + </p> + <p> + “Who knows?” + </p> + <p> + She started to her feet so violently, that she upset the piano-stool. + </p> + <p> + “Whatever it may be,” she exclaimed, “I say in advance, + I am glad!” + </p> + <p> + And as M. de Tregars turned his head in some surprise, + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am glad!” she repeated, “because it would be a + change; and I am sick of the life I lead. Yes, sick to be eternally + and invariably happy of that same dreary happiness. And to think + that there are idiots who believe that I amuse myself, and who envy my + fate! To think, that, when I ride through the streets, I hear girls + exclaim, whilst looking at me, ‘Isn’t she lucky?’ Little + fools! I’d like to see them in my place. They live, they do. + Their pleasures are not all alike. They have anxieties and hopes, + ups and downs, hours of rain and hours of sunshine; whilst I—always + dead calm! the barometer always at ‘Set fair.’ What a + bore! Do you know what I did to-day? Exactly the same thing as + yesterday; and to-morrow I’ll do the same thing as to-day. + </p> + <p> + “A good dinner is a good thing; but always the same dinner, without + extras or additions—pouah! Too many truffles. I want + some corned beef and cabbage. I know the bill of fare by heart, you + see. In winter, theatres and balls; in summer, races and the + seashore; summer and winter, shopping, rides to the bois, calls, trying + dresses, perpetual adoration by mother’s friends, all of them brilliant + and gallant fellows to whom the mere thought of my dowry gives the + jaundice. Excuse me, if I yawn: I am thinking of their + conversations. + </p> + <p> + “And to think,” she went on, “that such will be my + existence until I make up my mind to take a husband! For I’ll have + to come to it too. The Baron Three Sixty-eight will present to me + some sort of a swell, attracted by my money. I’ll answer, ‘I’d + just as soon have him as any other,’ and he will be admitted to the + honor of paying his attentions to me. Every morning he will send me + a splendid bouquet: every evening, after bank-hours, he’ll come + along with fresh kid gloves and a white vest. During the afternoon, + he and papa will pull each other’s hair out on the subject of the dowry. + At last the happy day will arrive. Can’t you see it from here? + Mass with music, dinner, ball. The Baron Three Sixty-eight will not + spare me a single ceremony. The marriage of the manager of the + Mutual Credit must certainly be an advertisement. The papers will + publish the names of the bridesmaids and of the guests. + </p> + <p> + “To be sure, papa will have a face a yard long; because he will have + been compelled to pay the dowry the day before. Mamma will be all + upset at the idea of becoming a grandmother. The bridegroom will be + in a wretched humor, because his boots will be too tight; and I’ll look + like a goose, because I’ll be dressed in white; and white is a stupid + color, which is not at all becoming to me. Charming family + gathering, isn’t it? Two weeks later, my husband will be sick of me, + and I’ll be disgusted with him. After a month, we’ll be at daggers’ + points. He’ll go back to his club and his mistresses; and I—I + shall have conquered the right to go out alone; and I’ll begin again going + to the bois, to balls, to races, wherever my mother goes. I’ll spend + an enormous amount of money on my dress, and I’ll make debts which papa + will pay.” + </p> + <p> + Though any thing might be expected of Mlle. Cesarine, still M. de Tregars + seemed visibly astonished. And she, laughing at his surprise, + </p> + <p> + “That’s the invariable programme,” she went on; “and + that’s why I say I’m glad at the idea of a change, whatever it may be. + You find fault with me for not pitying Mlle. Gilberte. How could I, + since I envy her? She is happy, because her future is not settled, + laid out, fixed in advance. She is poor; but she is free. She + is twenty; she is pretty; she has an admirable voice; she can go on the + stage to-morrow, and be, before six months, one of the pet actresses of + Paris. What a life then! Ah, that is the one I dream, the one + I would have selected, had I been mistress of my destiny.” + </p> + <p> + But she was interrupted by the noise of the opening door. + </p> + <p> + The Baroness de Thaller appeared. As she was, immediately after + dinner, to go to the opera, and afterwards to a party given by the + Viscountess de Bois d’Ardon, she was in full dress. She wore a + dress, cut audaciously low in the neck, of very light gray satin, trimmed + with bands of cherry-colored silk edged with lace. In her hair, worn + high over her head, she had a bunch of fuchsias, the flexible stems of + which, fastened by a large diamond star, trailed down to her very + shoulders, white and smooth as marble. + </p> + <p> + But, though she forced herself to smile, her countenance was not that of + festive days; and the glance which she cast upon her daughter and Marius + de Tregars was laden with threats. In a voice of which she tried in + vain to control the emotion, + </p> + <p> + “How very kind of you, marquis,” she began, “to respond + so soon to my invitation of this morning! I am really distressed to + have kept you waiting; but I was dressing. After what has happened + to M. de Thaller, it is absolutely indispensable that I should go out, + show myself: otherwise our enemies will be going around to-morrow, + saying everywhere that I am in Belgium, preparing lodgings for my husband.” + </p> + <p> + And, suddenly changing her tone, + </p> + <p> + “But what was that madcap Cesarine telling you?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + It was with a profound surprise that M. de Tregars discovered that the + entente cordiale which he suspected between the mother and daughter did + not exist, at least at this moment. + </p> + <p> + Veiling under a jesting tone the strange conjectures which the unexpected + discovery aroused within him, + </p> + <p> + “Mlle. Cesarine,” he replied, “who is much to be pitied, + was telling me all her troubles.” + </p> + <p> + She interrupted him. + </p> + <p> + “Do not take the trouble to tell a story, M. le Marquis,” she + said. “Mamma knows it as well as yourself; for she was + listening at the door.” + </p> + <p> + “Cesarine!” exclaimed Mme. de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “And, if she came in so suddenly, it is because she thought it was + fully time to cut short my confidences.” + </p> + <p> + The face of the baroness became crimson. + </p> + <p> + “The child is mad!” she said. + </p> + <p> + The child burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “That’s my way,” she went on. “You should not have + sent me here by chance, and against my wish. You made me do it: + don’t complain. You were sure that I had but to appear, and M. de + Tregars would fall at my feet. I appeared, and—you saw the + effect through the keyhole, didn’t you?” + </p> + <p> + Her features contracted, her eyes flashing, twisting her lace handkerchief + between her fingers loaded with rings, + </p> + <p> + “It is unheard of,” said Mme. de Thaller. “She has + certainly lost her head.” + </p> + <p> + Dropping her mother an ironical courtesy, + </p> + <p> + “Thanks for the compliment!” said the young lady. + “Unfortunately, I never was more completely in possession of all the + good sense I may boast of than I am now, dear mamma. What were you + telling me a moment since? ‘Run, the Marquis de Tregars is + coming to ask your hand: it’s all settled.’ And what did + I answer? ‘No use to trouble myself: if, instead of one + million, papa were to give me two, four millions, indeed all the millions + paid by France to Prussia, M. de Tregars would not have me for a wife.’” + </p> + <p> + And, looking Marius straight in the face, + </p> + <p> + “Am I not right, M. le Marquis?” she asked. “And + isn’t it a fact that you wouldn’t have me at any price? Come, now, + your hand upon your heart, answer.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars’ situation was somewhat embarrassing between these two + women, whose anger was equal, though it manifested itself in a different + way. Evidently it was a discussion begun before, which was now + continued in his presence. + </p> + <p> + “I think, mademoiselle,” he began, “that you have been + slandering yourself gratuitously.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, no! I swear it to you,” she replied; “and, if + mamma had not happened in, you would have heard much more. But that + was not an answer.” + </p> + <p> + And, as M. de Tregars said nothing, she turned towards the baroness, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, ah! you see,” she said. “Who was crazy,—you, + or I? Ah! you imagine here that money is everything, that every + thing is for sale, and that every thing can be bought. Well, no! + There are still men, who, for all the gold in the world, would not give + their name to Cesarine de Thaller. It is strange; but it is so, dear + mamma, and we must make up our mind to it.” + </p> + <p> + Then turning towards Marius, and bearing upon each syllable, as if afraid + that the allusion might escape him, + </p> + <p> + “The men of whom I speak,” she added, “marry the girls + who can starve to death.” + </p> + <p> + Knowing her daughter well enough to be aware that she could not impose + silence upon her, the Baroness de Thaller had dropped upon a chair. + She was trying hard to appear indifferent to what her daughter was saying; + but at every moment a threatening gesture, or a hoarse exclamation, + betrayed the storm that raged within her. + </p> + <p> + “Go on, poor foolish child!” she said,—“go on!” + </p> + <p> + And she did go on. + </p> + <p> + “Finally, were M. de Tregars willing to have me, I would refuse him + myself, because, then—” + </p> + <p> + A fugitive blush colored her cheeks, her bold eyes vacillated, and, + dropping her voice, + </p> + <p> + “Because, then,” she added, “he would no longer be what + he is; because I feel that fatally I shall despise the husband whom papa + will buy for me. And, if I came here to expose myself to an affront + which I foresaw, it is because I wanted to make sure of a fact of which a + word of Costeclar, a few days ago, had given me an idea, —of a fact + which you do not, perhaps, suspect, dear mother, despite your astonishing + perspicacity. I wanted to find out M. de Tregars’ secret; and I have + found it out.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had come to the Thaller mansion with a plan well settled in + advance. He had pondered long before deciding what he would do, and + what he would say, and how he would begin the decisive struggle. + What had taken place showed him the idleness of his conjectures, and, as a + natural consequence, upset his plans. To abandon himself to the + chances of the hour, and to make the best possible use of them, was now + the wisest thing to do. + </p> + <p> + “Give me credit, mademoiselle,” he uttered, “for + sufficient penetration to have perfectly well discerned your intentions. + There was no need of artifice, because I have nothing to conceal. + You had but to question me, I would have answered you frankly, ‘Yes, + it is true I love Mlle. Gilberte; and before a month she will be Marquise + de Tregars.’” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller, at those words, had started to her feet, pushing back her + arm-chair so violently, that it rolled all the way to the wall. + </p> + <p> + “What!” she exclaimed, “you marry Gilberte Favoral,—you!” + </p> + <p> + “I—yes.” + </p> + <p> + “The daughter of a defaulting cashier, a dishonored man whom justice + pursues and the galleys await!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes!” And in an accent that caused a shiver to run over + the white shoulders of Mme. de Thaller, + </p> + <p> + “Whatever may have been,” he uttered, “Vincent Favoral’s + crime; whether he has or has not stolen, the twelve millions which are + wanting from the funds of the Mutual Credit; whether he is alone guilty, + or has accomplices; whether he be a knave, or a fool, an impostor, or a + dupe,—Mlle. Gilberte is not responsible.” + </p> + <p> + “You know the Favoral family, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Enough to make their cause henceforth my own.” + </p> + <p> + The agitation of the baroness was so great, that she did not even attempt + to conceal it. + </p> + <p> + “A nobody’s daughter!” she said. + </p> + <p> + “I love her.” + </p> + <p> + “Without a sou!” + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Cesarine made a superb gesture. + </p> + <p> + “Why, that’s the very reason why a man may marry her!” she + exclaimed, and, holding out her hand to M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “What you do here is well,” she added, “very well.” + </p> + <p> + There was a wild look in the eyes of the baroness. + </p> + <p> + “Mad, unhappy child!” she exclaimed. “If your + father should hear!” + </p> + <p> + “And who, then, would report our conversation to him? M. de + Tregars? He would not do such a thing. You? You dare + not.” + </p> + <p> + Drawing herself up to her fullest height, her breast swelling with anger, + her head thrown back, her eyes flashing, + </p> + <p> + “Cesarine,” ordered Mme. de Thaller, her arm extended towards + the door—“Cesarine, leave the room; I command you.” + </p> + <p> + But motionless in her place the girl cast upon her mother a look of + defiance. + </p> + <p> + “Come, calm yourself,” she said in a tone of crushing irony, + “or you’ll spoil your complexion for the rest of the evening. + Do I complain? do I get excited? And yet whose fault is it, if honor + makes it a duty for me to cry ‘Beware!’ to an honest man who + wishes to marry me? That Gilberte should get married: that she + should be very happy, have many children, darn her husband’s stockings, + and skim her <i>pot-au-feu</i>,—that is her part in life. + Ours, dear mother,—that which you have taught me—is to laugh + and have fun, all the time, night and day, till death.” + </p> + <p> + A footman who came in interrupted her. Handing a card to Mme. de + Thaller, + </p> + <p> + “The gentleman who gave it to me,” he said, “is in the + large parlor.” + </p> + <p> + The baroness had become very pale. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” she said turning the card between her fingers,—“oh!” + </p> + <p> + Then suddenly she ran out exclaiming, + </p> + <p> + “I’ll be back directly.” + </p> + <p> + An embarrassing, painful silence followed, as it was inevitable that it + would, the Baroness de Thaller’s precipitate departure. + </p> + <p> + Mlle. Cesarine had approached the mantel-piece. She was leaning her + elbow upon it, her forehead on her hand, all palpitating and excited. + Intimidated for, perhaps, the first time in her life, she turned away her + great blue eyes, as if afraid that they should betray a reflex of her + thoughts. + </p> + <p> + As to M. de Tregars, he remained at his place, not having one whit too + much of that power of self-control, which is acquired by a long experience + of the world, to conceal his impressions. If he had a fault, it was + certainly not self-conceit; but Mlle. de Thaller had been too explicit and + too clear to leave him a doubt. All she had said could be comprised + in one sentence, + </p> + <p> + “My parents were in hopes that I would become your wife: I had + judged you well enough to understand their error. Precisely because + I love you I acknowledge myself unworthy of you and I wish you to know + that if you had asked my hand,—the hand of a girl who has a dowry of + a million—I would have ceased to esteem you.” + </p> + <p> + That such a feeling should have budded and blossomed in Mlle. Cesarine’s + soul, withered as it was by vanity, and blunted by pleasure was almost a + miracle. It was, at any rate, an astonishing proof of love which she + gave; and Marius de Tregars would not have been a man, if he had not been + deeply moved by it. Suddenly, + </p> + <p> + “What a miserable wretch I am!” she uttered. + </p> + <p> + “You mean unhappy,” said M. de Tregars gently. + </p> + <p> + “What can you think of my sincerity? You must, doubtless, find + it strange, impudent, grotesque.” + </p> + <p> + He lifted his hand in protest; for she gave him no time to put in a word. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” she went on, “this is not the first time that + I am assailed by sinister ideas, and that I feel ashamed of myself. + I was convinced once that this mad existence of mine is the only enviable + one, the only one that can give happiness. And now I discover that + it is not the right path which I have taken, or, rather, which I have been + made to take. And there is no possibility of retracing my steps.” + </p> + <p> + She turned pale, and, in an accent of gloomy despair, + </p> + <p> + “Every thing fails me,” she said. “It seems as + though I were rolling into a bottomless abyss, without a branch or a tuft + of grass to cling to. Around me, emptiness, night, chaos. I am + not yet twenty and it seems to me that I have lived thousands of years, + and exhausted every sensation. I have seen every thing, learned + every thing, experienced every thing; and I am tired of every thing, and + satiated and nauseated. You see me looking like a brainless hoyden, + I sing, I jest, I talk slang. My gayety surprises everybody. + In reality, I am literally tired to death. What I feel I could not + express, there are no words to render absolute disgust. Sometimes I + say to myself, ‘It is stupid to be so sad. What do you need? + Are you not young, handsome, rich?’ But I must need something, + or else I would not be thus agitated, nervous, anxious, unable to stay in + one place, tormented by confused aspirations, and by desires which I + cannot formulate. What can I do? Seek oblivion in pleasure and + dissipation? I try, and I succeed for an hour or so; but the + reaction comes, and the effect vanishes, like froth from champagne. + The lassitude returns; and, whilst outwardly I continue to laugh, I shed + within tears of blood which scald my heart. What is to become of me, + without a memory in the past, or a hope in the future, upon which to rest + my thought?” + </p> + <p> + And bursting into tears, + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I am wretchedly unhappy!” she exclaimed; “and I + wish I was dead.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars rose, feeling more deeply moved than he would, perhaps, have + liked to acknowledge. + </p> + <p> + “I was laughing at you only a moment since,” he said in his + grave and vibrating voice. “Pardon me, mademoiselle. It + is with the utmost sincerity, and from the innermost depths of my soul, + that I pity you.” + </p> + <p> + She was looking at him with an air of timid doubt, big tears trembling + between her long eyelashes. + </p> + <p> + “Honest?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Upon my honor.” + </p> + <p> + “And you will not go with too poor an opinion of me?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall retain the firm belief that when you were yet but a child, + you were spoiled by insane theories.” + </p> + <p> + Gently and sadly she was passing her hand over her forehead. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, that’s it,” she murmured. “How could I + resist examples coming from certain persons? How could I help + becoming intoxicated when I saw myself, as it were, in a cloud of incense + when I heard nothing but praises and applause? And then there is the + money, which depraves when it comes in a certain way.” + </p> + <p> + She ceased to speak; but the silence was soon again broken by a slight + noise, which came from the adjoining room. + </p> + <p> + Mechanically, M. de Tregars looked around him. The little parlor in + which he found himself was divided from the main drawing-room of the house + by a tall and broad door, closed only by heavy curtains, which had + remained partially drawn. Now, such was the disposition of the + mirrors in the two rooms, that M. de Tregars could see almost the whole of + the large one reflected in the mirror over the mantelpiece of the little + parlor. A man of suspicious appearance, and wearing wretched + clothes, was standing in it. + </p> + <p> + And, the more M. de Tregars examined him, the more it seemed to him that + he had already seen somewhere that uneasy countenance, that anxious + glance, that wicked smile flitting upon flat and thin lips. + </p> + <p> + But suddenly the man bowed very low. It was probable that Mme. de + Thaller, who had gone around through the hall to reach the grand parlor, + must be coming in; and in fact she almost immediately appeared within the + range of the glass. She seemed much agitated; and, with a finger + upon her lips, she was recommending to the man to be prudent, and to speak + low. It was therefore in a whisper, and such a low whisper that not + even a vague murmur reached the little parlor, that the man uttered a few + words. They were such that the baroness started back as if she had + seen a precipice yawning at her feet; and by this action it was easy to + understand that she must have said, + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible?” + </p> + <p> + With the voice which still could not be heard, but with a gesture which + could be seen, the man evidently replied, + </p> + <p> + “It is so, I assure you!” + </p> + <p> + And leaning towards Mme. de Thaller, who seemed in no wise shocked to feel + this repulsive personage’s lips almost touching her ear, he began speaking + to her. + </p> + <p> + The surprise which this species of vision caused to M. de Tregars was + great, but did not keep him from reflecting what could be the meaning of + this scene. How came this suspicious-looking man to have obtained + access, without difficulty, into the grand parlor? Why had the + baroness, on receiving his card, turned whiter than the laces on her + dress? What news had he brought, which had made such a deep + impression? What was he saying that seemed at once to terrify and to + delight Mme. de Thaller? + </p> + <p> + But soon she interrupted the man, beckoned to him to wait, disappeared for + a minute; and, when she came in again, she held in her hand a package of + bank-notes, which she began counting upon the parlor-table. + </p> + <p> + She counted twenty-five, which, so far as M. de Tregars could judge, must + have been hundred-franc notes. The man took them, counted them over, + slipped them into his pocket with a grin of satisfaction, and then seemed + disposed to retire. + </p> + <p> + The baroness detained him, however; and it was she now, who, leaning + towards him, commenced to explain to him, or rather, as far as her + attitude showed, to ask him something. It must have been a serious + matter; for he shook his head, and moved his arms, as if he meant to say, + “The deuse, the deuse!” + </p> + <p> + The strangest suspicions flashed across M. de Tregars’ mind. What + was that bargain to which the mirror made him thus an accidental witness? + For it was a bargain: there could be no mistake about it. The + man, having received a mission, had fulfilled it, and had come to receive + the price of it. And now a new commission was offered to him. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars’ attention was now called off by Mlle. Cesarine. + Shaking off the torpor which for a moment had overpowered her, + </p> + <p> + “But why fret and worry?” she said, answering, rather, the + objections of her own mind than addressing herself to M. de Tregars. + “Things are just as they are, and I cannot undo them. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! if the mistakes of life were like soiled clothes, which are + allowed to accumulate in a wardrobe, and which are all sent out at once to + the wash. But nothing washes the past, not even repentance, whatever + they may say. There are some ideas which should be set aside. + A prisoner should not allow himself to think of freedom. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” she added, shrugging her shoulders, “a + prisoner has always the hope of escaping; whereas I—” Then, + making a visible effort to resume her usual manner, + </p> + <p> + “Bash!” she said, “that’s enough sentiment for one day; + and instead of staying here, boring you to death, I ought to go and dress; + for I am going to the opera with my sweet mamma, and afterwards to the + ball. You ought to come. I am going to wear a stunning dress. + The ball is at Mme. de Bois d’Ardon’s,—one of our friends, a + progressive woman. She has a smoking-room for ladies. What do + you think of that? Come, will you go? We’ll drink champagne, + and we’ll laugh. No? Zut then, and my compliments to your + family.” + </p> + <p> + But, at the moment of leaving the room, her heart failed her. + </p> + <p> + “This is doubtless the last time I shall ever see you, M. de + Tregars,” she said. “Farewell! You know now why I, + who have a dowry of a million, I envy Gilberte Favoral. Once more + farewell. And, whatever happiness may fall to your lot in life, + remember that Cesarine has wished it all to you.” + </p> + <p> + And she went out at the very moment when the Baroness de Thaller returned. + </p> + <h2> + VII + </h2> + <p> + “Cesarine!” Mme. de Thaller called, in a voice which + sounded at once like a prayer and a threat. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to dress myself, mamma,” she answered. + </p> + <p> + “Come back!” + </p> + <p> + “So that you can scold me if I am not ready when you want to go? + Thank you, no.” + </p> + <p> + “I command you to come back, Cesarine.” + </p> + <p> + No answer. She was far already. + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller closed the door of the little parlor, and returning to + take a seat by M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “What a singular girl!” she said. + </p> + <p> + Meantime he was watching in the glass what was going on in the other room. + The suspicious-looking man was there still, and alone. A servant had + brought him pen, ink and paper; and he was writing rapidly. + </p> + <p> + “How is it that they leave him there alone?” wondered Marius. + </p> + <p> + And he endeavored to find upon the features of the baroness an answer to + the confused presentiments which agitated his brain. But there was + no longer any trace of the emotion which she had manifested when taken + unawares. Having had time for reflection, she had composed for + herself an impenetrable countenance. Somewhat surprised at M. de + Tregars’ silence, + </p> + <p> + “I was saying,” she repeated, “that Cesarine is a + strange girl.” + </p> + <p> + Still absorbed by the scene in the grand parlor, + </p> + <p> + “Strange, indeed!” he answered. + </p> + <p> + “And such is,” said the baroness with a sigh, “the + result of M. de Thaller’s weakness, and above all of my own. + </p> + <p> + “We have no child but Cesarine; and it was natural that we should + spoil her. Her fancy has been, and is still, our only law. She + has never had time to express a wish: she is obeyed before she has + spoken.” + </p> + <p> + She sighed again, and deeper than the first time. “You have + just seen,” she went on, “the results of that insane + education. And yet it would not do to trust appearances. + Cesarine, believe me, is not as extravagant as she seems. She + possesses solid qualities,—of those which a man expects of the woman + who is to be his wife.” + </p> + <p> + Without taking his eyes off the glass, + </p> + <p> + “I believe you madame,” said M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “With her father, with me especially, she is capricious, wilful, and + violent; but, in the hands of the husband of her choice, she would be like + wax in the hands of the modeler.” + </p> + <p> + The man in the parlor had finished his letter, and, with an equivocal + smile, was reading it over. + </p> + <p> + “Believe me, madame,” replied M. de Tregars, “I have + perfectly understood how much naive boasting there was in all that Mlle. + Cesarine told me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, really, you do not judge her too severely?” + </p> + <p> + “Your heart has not more indulgence for her than my own.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it is from you that her first real sorrow comes.” + </p> + <p> + “From me?” + </p> + <p> + The baroness shook her head in a melancholy way, to convey an idea of her + maternal affection and anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, from you, my dear marquis,” she replied, “from you + alone. On the very day you entered this house, Cesarine’s whole + nature changed.” + </p> + <p> + Having read his letter over, the man in the grand parlor had folded it, + and slipped it into his pocket, and, having left his seat, seemed to be + waiting for something. M. de Tregars was following, in the glass, + his every motion, with the most eager curiosity. And nevertheless, + as he felt the absolute necessity of saying something, were it only to + avoid attracting the attention of the baroness, + </p> + <p> + “What!” he said, “Mlle. Cesarine’s nature did change, + then?” + </p> + <p> + “In one night. Had she not met the hero of whom every girl + dreams? —a man of thirty, bearing one of the oldest names in France.” + </p> + <p> + She stopped, expecting an answer, a word, an exclamation. But, as M. + de Tregars said nothing, + </p> + <p> + “Did you never notice any thing then?” she asked. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose I were to tell you myself, that my poor Cesarine, alas! + —loves you?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars started. Had he been less occupied with the personage + in the grand parlor, he would certainly not have allowed the conversation + to drift in this channel. He understood his mistake; and, in an icy + tone, + </p> + <p> + “Permit me, madame,” he said, “to believe that you are + jesting.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose it were the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “It would make me unhappy in the extreme.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “For the reason which I have already told you, that I love Mlle. + Gilberte Favoral with the deepest and the purest love, and that for the + past three years she has been, before God, my affianced bride.” + </p> + <p> + Something like a flash of anger passed over Mme. de Thaller’s eyes. + </p> + <p> + “And I,” she exclaimed,—“I tell you that this + marriage is senseless.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish it were still more so, that I might the better show to + Gilberte how dear she is to me.” + </p> + <p> + Calm in appearance, the baroness was scratching with her nails the satin + of the chair on which she was sitting. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” she went on, “your resolution is settled.” + </p> + <p> + “Irrevocably.” + </p> + <p> + “Still, now, come, between us who are no longer children, suppose M. + de Thaller were to double Cesarine’s dowry, to treble it?” + </p> + <p> + An expression of intense disgust contracted the manly features of Marius + de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! not another word, madame,” he interrupted. + </p> + <p> + There was no hope left. Mme. de Thaller fully realized it by the + tone in which he spoke. She remained pensive for over a minute, and + suddenly, like a person who has finally made up her mind, she rang. + </p> + <p> + A footman appeared. + </p> + <p> + “Do what I told you!” she ordered. + </p> + <p> + And as soon as the footman had gone, turning to M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” she said, “who would have thought that I would + curse the day when you first entered our house?” + </p> + <p> + But, whilst, she spoke, M. de Tregars noticed in the glass the result of + the order she had just given. + </p> + <p> + The footman walked into the grand parlor, spoke a few words; and at once + the man with the alarming countenance put on his hat and went out. + </p> + <p> + “This is very strange!” thought M. de Tregars. Meantime, + the baroness was going on, + </p> + <p> + “If your intentions are to that point irrevocable, how is it that + you are here? You have too much experience of the world not to have + understood, this morning, the object of my visit and of my allusions.” + </p> + <p> + Fortunately, M. de Tregars’ attention was no longer drawn by the + proceedings in the next room. The decisive moment had come: + the success of the game he was playing would, perhaps, depend upon his + coolness and self-command. + </p> + <p> + “It is because I did understand, madame, and even better than you + suppose, that I am here.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” + </p> + <p> + “I came, expecting to deal with M. de Thaller alone. I have + been compelled, by what has happened, to alter my intentions. It is + to you that I must speak first.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller continued to manifest the same tranquil assurance; but she + stood up. Feeling the approach of the storm, she wished to be up, + and ready to meet it. + </p> + <p> + “You honor me,” she said with an ironical smile. + </p> + <p> + There was, henceforth, no human power capable of turning Marius de Tregars + from the object he had in view. + </p> + <p> + “It is to you I shall speak,” he repeated, “because, + after you have heard me, you may perhaps judge that it is your interest to + join me in endeavoring to obtain from your husband what I ask, what I + demand, what I must have.” + </p> + <p> + With an air of surprise marvelously well simulated, if it was not real, + the baroness was looking at him. + </p> + <p> + “My father,” he proceeded to say, “the Marquis de + Tregars, was once rich: he had several millions. And yet when + I had the misfortune of losing him, three years ago, he was so thoroughly + ruined, that to relieve the scruples of his honor, and to make his death + easier, I gave up to his creditors all I had in the world. What had + become of my father’s fortune? What filter had been administered to + him to induce him to launch into hazardous speculations,—he an old + Breton gentleman, full, even to absurdity, of the most obstinate + prejudices of the nobility? That’s what I wished to ascertain. + </p> + <p> + “And now, madame, I—have ascertained.” + </p> + <p> + She was a strong-minded woman, the Baroness de Thaller. She had had + so many adventures in her life, she had walked on the very edge of so many + precipices, concealed so many anxieties, that danger was, as it were, her + element, and that, at the decisive moment of an almost desperate game, she + could remain smiling like those old gamblers whose face never betrays + their terrible emotion at the moment when they risk their last stake. + Not a muscle of her face moved; and it was with the most imperturbable + calm that she said, + </p> + <p> + “Go on, I am listening: it must be quite interesting.” + </p> + <p> + That was not the way to propitiate M. de Tregars. <br />He resumed, + in a brief and harsh tone, + </p> + <p> + “When my father died, I was young. I did not know then what I + have learned since,—that to contribute to insure the impunity of + knaves is almost to make one’s self their accomplice. And the victim + who says nothing and submits, does contribute to it. The honest man, + on the contrary, should speak, and point out to others the trap into which + he has fallen, that they may avoid it.” + </p> + <p> + The baroness was listening with the air of a person who is compelled by + politeness to hear a tiresome story. + </p> + <p> + “That is a rather gloomy preamble,” she said. M. de + Tregars took no notice of the interruption. + </p> + <p> + “At all times,” he went on, “my father seemed careless + of his affairs: that affectation, he thought, was due to the name he + bore. But his negligence was only apparent. I might mention + things of him that would do honor to the most methodical tradesman. + He had, for instance, the habit of preserving all the letters of any + importance which he received. He left twelve or fifteen boxes full + of such. They were carefully classified; and many bore upon their + margin a few notes indicating what answer had been made to them.” + </p> + <p> + Half suppressing a yawn, + </p> + <p> + “That is order,” said the baroness, “if I know any thing + about it.” + </p> + <p> + “At the first moment, determined not to stir up the past, I attached + no importance to those letters; and they would certainly have been burnt, + but for an old friend of the family, the Count de Villegre, who had them + carried to his own house. But later, acting under the influence of + circumstances which it would be too long to explain to you, I regretted my + apathy; and I thought that I should, perhaps, find in that correspondence + something to either dissipate or justify certain suspicions which had + occurred to me.” + </p> + <p> + “So that, like a respectful son, you read it?” M. de + Tregars bowed ceremoniously. + </p> + <p> + “I believe,” he said, “that to avenge a father of the + imposture of which he was the victim during his life, is to render homage + to his memory. Yes, madame, I read the whole of that correspondence, + and with an interest which you will readily understand. I had + already, and without result, examined the contents of several boxes, when + in the package marked 1852, a year which my father spent in Paris, certain + letters attracted my attention. They were written upon coarse paper, + in a very primitive handwriting and wretchedly spelt. They were + signed sometimes Phrasie, sometimes Marquise de Javelle. Some gave + the address, ‘Rue des Bergers, No. 3, Paris-Grenelle.’ + </p> + <p> + “Those letters left me no doubt upon what had taken place. My + father had met a young working-girl of rare beauty: he had taken a + fancy to her; and, as he was tormented by the fear of being loved for his + money alone, he had passed himself off for a poor clerk in one of the + departments.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite a touching little love-romance,” remarked the baroness. + </p> + <p> + But there was no impertinence that could affect Marius de Tregars’ + coolness. + </p> + <p> + “A romance, perhaps,” he said, “but in that case a + money-romance, not a love-romance. This Phrasie or Marquise de + Javelle, announces in one of her letters, that in February, 1853, she has + given birth to a daughter, whom she has confided to some relatives of hers + in the south, near Toulouse. It was doubtless that event which + induced my father to acknowledge who he was. He confesses that he is + not a poor clerk, but the Marquis de Tregars, having an income of over a + hundred thousand francs. At once the tone of the correspondence + changes. The Marquise de Javelle has a stupid time where she lives; + the neighbors reproach her with her fault; work spoils her pretty hands. + Result: less than two weeks after the birth of her daughter, my + father hires for his pretty mistress a lovely apartment, which she + occupies under the name of Mme. Devil; she is allowed fifteen hundred + francs a month, servants, horses, carriage.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller was giving signs of the utmost impatience. Without + paying any attention to them, M. de Tregars proceeded, + </p> + <p> + “Henceforth free to see each other daily, my father and his mistress + cease to write. But Mme. Devil does not waste her time. During + a space of less than eight months, from February to September, she induces + my father to dispose—not in her favor, she is too disinterested for + that, but in favor of her daughter—of a sum exceeding five hundred + thousand francs. In September, the correspondence is resumed. + Mme. Devil discovers that she is not happy, and acknowledges it in a + letter, which shows, by its improved writing and more correct spelling, + that she has been taking lessons. + </p> + <p> + “She complains of her precarious situation: the future + frightens her: she longs for respectability. Such is, for + three months, the constant burden of her correspondence. She regrets + the time when she was a working girl: why has she been so weak? + Then, at last, in a note which betrays long debates and stormy + discussions, she announces that she has an unexpected offer of marriage; a + fine fellow, who, if she only had two hundred thousand francs, would give + his name to herself and to her darling little daughter. For a long + time my father hesitates; but she presses her point with such rare skill, + she demonstrates so conclusively that this marriage will insure the + happiness of their child, that my father yields at last, and resigns + himself to the sacrifice. And in a memorandum on the margin of a + last letter, he states that he has just given two hundred thousand francs + to Mme. Devil; that he will never see her again; and that he returns to + live in Brittany, where he wishes, by the most rigid economy, to repair + the breach he has just made in his fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Thus end all these love-stories,” said Mme. de Thaller in a + jesting tone. + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon: this one is not ended yet. For many + years, my father kept his word, and never left our homestead of Tregars. + But at last he grew tired of his solitude, and returned to Paris. + Did he seek to see his former mistress again? I think not. I + suppose that chance brought them together; or else, that, being aware of + his return, she managed to put herself in his way. He found her more + fascinating than ever, and, according to what she wrote him, rich and + respected; for her husband had become a personage. She would have + been perfectly happy, she added, had it been possible for her to forget + the man whom she had once loved so much, and to whom she owed her + position. + </p> + <p> + “I have that letter. The elegant hand, the style, and the + correct orthography, express better than any thing else the + transformations of the Marquise de Javelle. Only it is not signed. + The little working-girl has become prudent: she has much to lose, + and fears to compromise herself. + </p> + <p> + “A week later, in a laconic note, apparently dictated by an + irresistible passion, she begs my father to come to see her at her own + house. He does so, and finds there a little girl, whom he believes + to be his own child, and whom he at once begins to idolize. + </p> + <p> + “And that’s all. Again he falls under the charm. He + ceases to belong to himself: his former mistress can dispose, at her + pleasure, of his fortune and of his fate. + </p> + <p> + “But see now what bad luck! The husband takes a notion to + become jealous of my father’s visits. In a letter which is a + masterpiece of diplomacy, the lady explains her anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “‘He has suspicions,’ she writes; ‘and to what + extremities might he not resort, were he to discover the truth!’ + And with infinite art she insinuates that the best way to justify his + constant presence is to associate himself with that jealous husband. + </p> + <p> + “It is with childish haste that my father jumps at the suggestion. + But money is needed. He sells his lands, and everywhere announces + that he has great financial ideas, and that he is going to increase his + fortune tenfold. + </p> + <p> + “There he is now, partner of his former mistress’s husband, engaged + in speculations, director of a company. He thinks that he is doing + an excellent business: he is convinced that he is making lots of + money. Poor honest man! They prove to him, one morning, that + he is ruined, and, what is more, compromised. And this is made to + look so much like the truth, that I interfere myself, and pay the + creditors. We were ruined; but honor was safe. A few weeks + later, my father died broken-hearted.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller half rose from her seat with a gesture which indicated the + joy of escaping at last a merciless bore. A glance from M. de + Tregars riveted her to her seat, freezing upon her lips the jest she was + about to utter. + </p> + <p> + “I have not done yet,” he said rudely. + </p> + <p> + And, without suffering any interruption, + </p> + <p> + “From this correspondence,” he resumed, “resulted the + flagrant, irrefutable proof of a shameful intrigue, long since suspected + by my old friend, General Count de Villegre. It became evident to me + that my poor father had been most shamefully imposed upon by that + mistress, so handsome and so dearly loved, and, later, despoiled by the + husband of that mistress. But all this availed me nothing. + Being ignorant of my father’s life and connections, the letters giving + neither a name nor a precise detail, I knew not whom to accuse. + Besides, in order to accuse, it is necessary to have, at least, some + material proof.” + </p> + <p> + The baroness had resumed her seat; and every thing about her—her + attitude, her gestures, the motion of her lips—seemed to say, + </p> + <p> + “You are my guest. Civility has its demands; but really you + abuse your privileges.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars went on, + </p> + <p> + “At this moment I was still a sort of savage, wholly absorbed in my + experiments, and scarcely ever setting foot outside my laboratory. I + was indignant; I ardently wished to find and to punish the villains who + had robbed us: but I knew not how to go about it, nor in what + direction to seek information. The wretches would, perhaps, have + gone unpunished, but for a good and worthy man, now a commissary of + police, to whom I once rendered a slight service, one night, in a riot, + when he was close pressed by some half-dozen rascals. I explained + the situation to him: he took much interest in it, promised his + assistance, and marked out my line of conduct.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller seemed restless upon her seat. + </p> + <p> + “I must confess,” she began, “that I am not wholly + mistress of my time. I am dressed, as you see: I have to go + out.” + </p> + <p> + If she had preserved any hope of adjourning the explanation which she felt + coming, she must have lost it when she heard the tone in which M. de + Tregars interrupted her. + </p> + <p> + “You can go out to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + And, without hurrying, + </p> + <p> + “Advised, as I have just told you,” he continued, “and + assisted by the experience of a professional man, I went first to No. 3, + Rue des Bergers, in Grenelle. I found there some old people, the + foreman of a neighboring factory and his wife, who had been living in the + house for nearly twenty-five years. At my first question, they + exchanged a glance, and commenced laughing. They remembered + perfectly the Marquise de Javelle, which was but a nickname for a young + and pretty laundress, whose real name was Euphrasie Taponnet. She + had lived for eighteen months on the same landing as themselves: she + had a lover, who passed himself off for a clerk, but who was, in fact, she + had told them, a very wealthy nobleman. They added that she had + given birth to a little girl, and that, two weeks later she had + disappeared, and they had never heard a word from her. When I left + them, they said to me, ‘If you see Phrasie, ask her if she ever knew + old Chandour and his wife. I am sure she’ll remember us.’” + </p> + <p> + For the first time Mme. de Thaller shuddered slightly; but it was almost + imperceptible. + </p> + <p> + “From Grenelle,” continued M. de Tregars, “I went to the + house where my father’s mistress had lived under the name of Mme. Devil. + I was in luck. I found there the same concierge as in 1853. As + soon as I mentioned Mme. Devil, she answered me that she had not in the + least forgotten her, but, on the contrary, would know her among a + thousand. She was, she said, one of the prettiest little women she + had ever seen, and the most generous tenant. I understood the hint, + handed her a couple of napoleons, and heard from her every thing she knew + on the subject. It seemed that this pretty Mme. Devil had, not one + lover, but two,—the acknowledged one, who was the master, and footed + the bills; and the other an anonymous one, who went out through the + back-stairs, and who did not pay, on the contrary. The first was + called the Marquis de Tregars: of the second, she had never known + but the first name, Frederic. I tried to ascertain what had become + of Mme. Devil; but the worthy concierge swore to me that she did not know. + </p> + <p> + “One morning, like a person who is going abroad, or who wishes to + cover up her tracks, Mme. Devil had sent for a furniture-dealer, and a + dealer in second-hand clothes, and had sold them every thing she had, + going away with nothing but a little leather satchel, in which were her + jewels and her money.” + </p> + <p> + The Baroness de Thaller still kept a good countenance. After + examining her for a moment, with a sort of eager curiosity, Marius de + Tregars went on, + </p> + <p> + “When I communicated this information to my friend, the commissary + of police, he shook his head. ‘Two years ago,’ he told + me, ‘I would have said, that’s more than we want to find those + people; for the public records would have given us at once the key of this + enigma. But we have had the war and the Commune; and the books of + record have been burnt up. Still we must not give up. A last + hope remains; and I know the man who is capable of realizing it.’ + </p> + <p> + “Two days after, he brought me an excellent fellow, named Victor + Chupin, in whom I could have entire confidence; for he was recommended to + me by one of the men whom I like and esteem the most, the Duke de + Champdoce. Giving up all idea of applying at the various mayors’ + offices, Victor Chupin, with the patience and the tenacity of an Indian + following a scent, began beating about the districts of Grenelle, + Vargirard, and the Invalids. And not in vain; for, after a week of + investigations he brought me a nurse, residing Rue de l’Universite, who + remembered perfectly having once attended, on the occasion of her + confinement, a remarkably pretty young woman, living in the Rue des + Bergers, and nicknamed the Marquise de Javelle. And as she was a + very orderly woman, who at all times had kept a very exact account of her + receipts, she brought me a little book in which I read this entry: + ‘For attending Euphrasie Taponnet, alias the Marquise de Javelle (a + girl), one hundred francs.’ And this is not all. This + woman informed me, moreover, that she had been requested to present the + child at the mayor’s office, and that she had been duly registered there + under the names of Euphrasie Cesarine Taponnet, born of Euphrasie + Taponnet, laundress, and an unknown father. Finally she placed at my + disposal her account-book and her testimony.” + </p> + <p> + Taxed beyond measure, the energy of the baroness was beginning to fail + her; she was turning livid under her rice-powder. Still in the same + icy tone, + </p> + <p> + “You can understand, madame,” said Marius de Tregars, “that + this woman’s testimony, together with the letters which are in my + possession, enables me to establish before the courts the exact date of + the birth of a daughter whom my father had of his mistress. But + that’s nothing yet. With renewed zeal, Victor Chupin had resumed his + investigations. He had undertaken the examination of the + marriage-registers in all the parishes of Paris, and, as early as the + following week, he discovered at Notre Dame des Lorettes the entry of the + marriage of Euphrasie Taponnet with Frederic de Thaller.” + </p> + <p> + Though she must have expected that name, the baroness started up violently + and livid, and with a haggard look. + </p> + <p> + “It’s false!” she began in a choking voice. + </p> + <p> + A smile of ironical pity passed over Marius’ lips. + </p> + <p> + “Five minutes’ reflection will prove to you that it is useless to + deny,” he interrupted. “But wait. In the books of + that same church, Victor Chupin has found registered the baptism of a + daughter of M. and Mme de Thaller, bearing the same names as the first + one, —Euphrasie Cesarine.” + </p> + <p> + With a convulsive motion the baroness shrugged her shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “What does all that prove?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “That proves, madame, the well-settled intention of substituting one + child for another; that proves that my father was imprudently deceived + when he was made to believe that the second Cesarine was his daughter, the + daughter in whose favor he had formerly disposed of over five hundred + thousand francs; that proves that there is somewhere in the world a poor + girl who has been basely forsaken by her mother, the Marquise de Javelle, + now become the Baroness de Thaller.” + </p> + <p> + Beside herself with terror and anger, + </p> + <p> + “That is an infamous lie!” exclaimed the baroness. M. de + Tregars bowed. + </p> + <p> + “The evidence of the truth of my statements,” he said, “I + shall find at Louveciennes, and at the Hotel des Folies, Boulevard du + Temple, Paris.” + </p> + <p> + Night had come. A footman came in carrying lamps, which he placed + upon the mantelpiece. He was not all together one minute in the + little parlor; but that one minute was enough to enable the Marquise de + Thaller to recover her coolness, and to collect her ideas. When the + footman retired, she had made up her mind, with the resolute promptness of + a person accustomed to perilous situations. She gave up the + discussion, and, drawing near to M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “Enough allusions,” she said: “let us speak + frankly, and face to face now. What do you want?” + </p> + <p> + But the change was too sudden not to arouse Marius’s suspicions. + </p> + <p> + “I want a great many things,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “Still you must specify.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I claim first the five hundred thousand francs which my + father had settled upon his daughter,—the daughter whom you cast + off.” + </p> + <p> + “And what next?” + </p> + <p> + “I want besides, my own and my father’s fortune, of which we have + been robbed by M. de Thaller, with your assistance, madame.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that all, at least?” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “That’s nothing yet,” he replied. + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “We have now to say something of Vincent Favoral’s affairs.” + </p> + <p> + An attorney who is defending the interests of a client is neither calmer + nor cooler than Mme. de Thaller at this moment. + </p> + <p> + “Do the affairs of my husband’s cashier concern me, then?” she + said with a shade of irony. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madame, very much.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear it.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it from excellent sources, because, on my return from + Louveciennes, I called in the Rue du Cirque, where I saw one Zelie + Cadelle.” + </p> + <p> + He thought that the baroness would at least start on hearing that name. + Not at all. With a look of profound astonishment, + </p> + <p> + “Rue du Cirque,” she repeated, like a person who is making a + prodigious effort of memory,—“Rue du Cirque! Zelie + Cadelle! Really, I do not understand.” + </p> + <p> + But, from the glance which M. de Tregars cast upon her, she must have + understood that she would not easily draw from him the particulars which + he had resolved not to tell. + </p> + <p> + “I believe, on the contrary,” he uttered, “that you + understand perfectly.” + </p> + <p> + “Be it so, if you insist upon it. What do you ask for Favoral?” + </p> + <p> + “I demand, not for Favoral, but for the stockholders who have been + impudently defrauded, the twelve millions which are missing from the funds + of the Mutual Credit.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “Only that?” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, only that!” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, it seems to me that you should present your + reclamations to M. Favoral himself. You have the right to run after + him.” + </p> + <p> + “It is useless, for the reason that it is not he, the poor fool! who + has carried off the twelve millions.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is it, then?” + </p> + <p> + “M. le Baron de Thaller, no doubt.” + </p> + <p> + With that accent of pity which one takes to reply to an absurd + proposition,—“You are mad, my poor marquis,” said Mme. + de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “You do not think so.” + </p> + <p> + “But suppose I should refuse to do any thing more?” + </p> + <p> + He fixed upon her a glance in which she could read an irrevocable + determination; and slowly, + </p> + <p> + “I have a perfect horror of scandal,” he replied, “and, + as you perceive, I am trying to arrange every thing quietly between us. + But, if I do not succeed thus, I must appeal to the courts.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are your proofs?” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be afraid: I have proofs to sustain all my allegations.” + </p> + <p> + The baroness had stretched herself comfortably in her arm-chair. + </p> + <p> + “May we know them?” she inquired. + </p> + <p> + Marius was getting somewhat uneasy in presence of Mme. de Thaller’s + imperturbable assurance. What hope had she? Could she see some + means of escape from a situation apparently so desperate? Determined + to prove to her that all was lost, and that she had nothing to do but to + surrender, + </p> + <p> + “Oh! I know, madame,” he replied, “that you have + taken your precautions. But, when Providence interferes, you see, + human foresight does not amount to much. See, rather, what happens + in regard to your first daughter,—the one you had when you were + still only Marquise de Javelle.” + </p> + <p> + And briefly he called to her mind the principal incidents of Mlle. + Lucienne’s life from the time that she had left her with the poor + gardeners at Louveciennes, without giving either her name or her address,—the + injury she had received by being run over by Mme. de Thaller’s carriage; + the long letter she had written from the hospital, begging for assistance; + her visit to the house, and her meeting with the Baron de Thaller; the + effort to induce her to emigrate to America; her arrest by means of false + information, and her escape, thanks to the kind peace-officer; the attempt + upon her as she was going home late one night; and, finally, her + imprisonment after the Commune, among the <i>petroleuses</i>, and her + release through the interference of the same honest friend. + </p> + <p> + And, charging her with the responsibility of all these infamous acts, he + paused for an answer or a protest. + </p> + <p> + And, as Mme. de Thaller said nothing, + </p> + <p> + “You are looking at me, madame, and wondering how I have discovered + all that. A single word will explain it all. The peace-officer + who saved your daughter is precisely the same to whom it was once my good + fortune to render a service. By comparing notes, we have gradually + reached the truth,—reached you, madame. Will you acknowledge + now that I have more proofs than are necessary to apply to the courts?” + </p> + <p> + Whether she acknowledged it or not, she did not condescend to discuss. + </p> + <p> + “What then?” she said coldly. + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars was too much on his guard to expose himself, by + continuing to speak thus, to reveal the secret of his designs. + </p> + <p> + Besides, whilst he was thoroughly satisfied as to the manoeuvres used to + defraud his father he had, as yet, but presumptions on what concerned + Vincent Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “Permit me not to say another word, madame,” he replied. + “I have told you enough to enable you to judge of the value of my + weapons.” + </p> + <p> + She must have felt that she could not make him change his mind, for she + rose to go. + </p> + <p> + “That is sufficient,” she uttered. “I shall + reflect; and to-morrow I shall give you an answer.” + </p> + <p> + She started to go; but M. de Tregars threw himself quickly between her and + the door. + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me,” he said; “but it is not to-morrow that I + want an answer: it is to-night, this instant!” + </p> + <p> + Ah, if she could have annihilated him with a look. + </p> + <p> + “Why, this is violence,” she said in a voice which betrayed + the incredible effort she was making to control herself. + </p> + <p> + “It is imposed upon me by circumstances, madame.” + </p> + <p> + “You would be less exacting, if my husband were here.” + </p> + <p> + He must have been within hearing; for suddenly the door opened, and he + appeared upon the threshold. There are people for whom the + unforeseen does not exist, and whom no event can disconcert. Having + ventured every thing, they expect every thing. Such was the Baron de + Thaller. With a sagacious glance he examined his wife and M. de + Tregars; and in a cordial tone, + </p> + <p> + “We are quarreling here?” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad you have come!” exclaimed the baroness. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “The matter is, that M. de Tregars is endeavoring to take an odious + advantage of some incidents of our past life.” + </p> + <p> + “There’s woman’s exaggeration for you!” he said laughing. + </p> + <p> + And, holding out his hand to Marius, + </p> + <p> + “Let me make your peace—for you, my dear marquis,” he + said: “that’s within the province of the husband.” + But, instead of taking his extended hand, M. de Tregars stepped back. + </p> + <p> + “There is no more peace possible, sir, I am an enemy.” + </p> + <p> + “An enemy!” he repeated in a tone of surprise which was + wonderfully well assumed, if it was not real. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” interrupted the baroness; “and I must speak to + you at once, Frederic. Come: M. de Tregars will wait for you.” + </p> + <p> + And she led her husband into the adjoining room, not without first casting + upon Marius a look of burning and triumphant hatred. + </p> + <p> + Left alone, M. de Tregars sat down. Far from annoying him, this + sudden intervention of the manager of the Mutual Credit seemed to him a + stroke of fortune. It spared him an explanation more painful still + than the first, and the unpleasant necessity of having to confound a + villain by proving his infamy to him. + </p> + <p> + “And besides,” he thought, “when the husband and the + wife have consulted with each other, they will acknowledge that they + cannot resist, and that it is best to surrender.” The + deliberation was brief. In less than ten minutes, M. de Thaller + returned alone. He was pale; and his face expressed well the grief + of an honest man who discovers too late that he has misplaced his + confidence. + </p> + <p> + “My wife has told me all, sir,” he began. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had risen. “Well?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “You see me distressed. Ah, M. le Marquis! how could I ever + expect such a thing from you?—you, whom I thought I had the right to + look upon as a friend. And it is you, who, when a great misfortune + befalls me, attempts to give me the finishing stroke. It is you who + would crush me under the weight of slanders gathered in the gutter.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars stopped him with a gesture. + </p> + <p> + “Mme. de Thaller cannot have correctly repeated my words to you, + else you would not utter that word ‘slander.’” + </p> + <p> + “She has repeated them to me without the least change.” + </p> + <p> + “Then she cannot have told you the importance of the proofs I have + in my hands.” + </p> + <p> + But the Baron persisted, as Mlle. Cesarine would have said, to “do + it up in the tender style.” + </p> + <p> + “There is scarcely a family,” he resumed, “in which + there is not some one of those painful secrets which they try to withhold + from the wickedness of the world. There is one in mine. Yes, + it is true, that before our marriage, my wife had had a child, whom + poverty had compelled her to abandon. We have since done everything + that was humanly possible to find that child, but without success. + It is a great misfortune, which has weighed upon our life; but it is not a + crime. If, however, you deem it your interest to divulge our secret, + and to disgrace a woman, you are free to do so: I cannot prevent + you. But I declare it to you, that fact is the only thing real in + your accusations. You say that your father has been duped and + defrauded. From whom did you get such an idea? + </p> + <p> + “From Marcolet, doubtless, a man without character, who has become + my mortal enemy since the day when he tried a sharp game on me, and came + out second best. Or from Costeclar, perhaps, who does not forgive me + for having refused him my daughter’s hand, and who hates me because I know + that he committed forgery once, and that he would be in prison but for + your father’s extreme indulgence. Well, Costeclar and Marcolet have + deceived you. If the Marquis de Tregars ruined himself, it is + because he undertook a business that he knew nothing about, and speculated + right and left. It does not take long to sink a fortune, even + without the assistance of thieves. + </p> + <p> + “As to pretend that I have benefitted by the embezzlements of my + cashier that is simply stupid; and there can be no one to suggest such a + thing, except Jottras and Saint Pavin, two scoundrels whom I have had ten + times the opportunity to send to prison and who were the accomplices of + Favoral. Besides, the matter is in the hands of justice; and I shall + prove in the broad daylight of the court-room, as I have already done in + the office of the examining judge, that, to save the Mutual Credit, I have + sacrificed more than half my private fortune.” + </p> + <p> + Tired of this speech, the evident object of which was to lead him to + discuss, and to betray himself, + </p> + <p> + “Conclude, sir,” M. de Tregars interrupted harshly. + Still in the same placid tone, + </p> + <p> + “To conclude is easy enough,” replied the baron. “My + wife has told me that you were about to marry the daughter of my old + cashier,—a very handsome girl, but without a sou. She ought to + have a dowry.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Let us show our hands. I am in a critical position: you + know it, and you are trying to take advantage of it. Very well: + we can still come to an understanding. What would you say, if I were + to give to Mlle. Gilberte the dowry I intended for my daughter?” + </p> + <p> + All M. de Tregars’ blood rushed to his face. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, not another word!” he exclaimed with a gesture of + unprecedented violence. But, controlling himself almost at once, + </p> + <p> + “I demand,” he added, “my father’s fortune. I + demand that you should restore to the Mutual Credit Company the twelve + millions which have been abstracted.” + </p> + <p> + “And if not?” + </p> + <p> + “Then I shall apply to the courts.” + </p> + <p> + They remained for a moment face to face, looking into each other’s eyes. + Then, + </p> + <p> + “What have you decided?” asked M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Without perhaps, suspecting that his offer was a new insult, + </p> + <p> + “I will go as far as fifteen hundred thousand francs,” replied + M. de Thaller, “and I pay cash.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that your last word?” + </p> + <p> + “It is.” + </p> + <p> + “If I enter a complaint, with the proofs in my hands, you are lost.” + </p> + <p> + “We’ll see about that.” + </p> + <p> + To insist further would have been puerile. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, we’ll see, then,” said M. de Tregars. But as + he walked out and got into his cab, which had been waiting for him at the + door, he could not help wondering what gave the Baron de Thaller so much + assurance, and whether he was not mistaken in his conjectures. + </p> + <p> + It was nearly eight o’clock, and Maxence, Mme. Favoral and Mlle. Gilberte + must have been waiting for him with a feverish impatience; but he had + eaten nothing since morning, and he stopped in front of one of the + restaurants of the Boulevard. + </p> + <p> + He had just ordered his dinner, when a gentleman of a certain age, but + active and vigorous still, of military bearing, wearing a mustache, and a + tan-colored ribbon at his buttonhole, came to take a seat at the adjoining + table. + </p> + <p> + In less than fifteen minutes M. de Tregars had despatched a bowl of soup + and a slice of beef, and was hastening out, when his foot struck his + neighbor’s foot, without his being able to understand how it had happened. + </p> + <p> + Though fully convinced that it was not his fault, he hastened to excuse + himself. But the other began to talk angrily, and so loud, that + everybody turned around. + </p> + <p> + Vexed as he was, Marius renewed his apologies. + </p> + <p> + But the other, like those cowards who think they have found a greater + coward than themselves, was pouring forth a torrent of the grossest + insults. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was lifting his hand to administer a well-deserved + correction, when suddenly the scene in the grand parlor of the Thaller + mansion came back vividly to his mind. He saw again, as in the + glass, the ill-looking man listening, with an anxious look, to Mme. de + Thaller’s propositions, and afterwards sitting down to write. + </p> + <p> + “That’s it!” he exclaimed, a multitude of circumstances + occurring to his mind, which had escaped him at the moment. + </p> + <p> + And, without further reflection, seizing his adversary by the throat, he + threw him over on the table, holding him down with his knee. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure he must have the letter about him,” he said to the + people who surrounded him. + </p> + <p> + And in fact he did take from the side-pocket of the villain a letter, + which he unfolded, and commenced reading aloud, + </p> + <p> + “I am waiting for you, my dear major, come quick, for the thing is + pressing,—a troublesome gentleman who is to be made to keep quiet. + It will be for you the matter of a sword-thrust, and for us the occasion + to divide a round amount.” + </p> + <p> + “And, that’s why he picked a quarrel with me,” added M. de + Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Two waiters had taken hold of the villain, who was struggling furiously, + and wanted to surrender him to the police. + </p> + <p> + “What’s the use?” said Marius. “I have his letter: + that’s enough. The police will find him when they want him.” + </p> + <p> + And, getting back into his cab, + </p> + <p> + “Rue St. Gilles,” he ordered, “and lively, if possible.” + </p> + <h2> + VIII + </h2> + <p> + In the Rue St. Gilles the hours were dragging, slow and gloomy. + After Maxence had left to go and meet M. de Tregars, Mme. Favoral and her + daughter had remained alone with M. Chapelain, and had been compelled to + bear the brunt of his wrath, and to hear his interminable complaints. + </p> + <p> + He was certainly an excellent man, that old lawyer, and too just to hold + Mlle. Gilberte or her mother responsible for Vincent Favoral’s acts. + He spoke the truth when he assured them that he had for them a sincere + affection, and that they might rely upon his devotion. But he was + losing a hundred and sixty thousand francs; and a man who loses such a + large sum is naturally in bad humor, and not much disposed to optimism. + </p> + <p> + The cruellest enemies of the poor women would not have tortured them so + mercilessly as this devoted friend. + </p> + <p> + He spared them not one sad detail of that meeting at the Mutual Credit + office, from which he had just come. He exaggerated the proud + assurance of the manager, and the confiding simplicity of the + stockholders. “That Baron de Thaller,” he said to them, + “is certainly the most impudent scoundrel and the cleverest rascal I + have ever seen. You’ll see that he’ll get out of it with clean hands + and full pockets. Whether or not he has accomplices, Vincent will be + the scapegoat. We must make up our mind to that.” + </p> + <p> + His positive intention was to console Mme. Favoral and Gilberte. Had + he sworn to drive them to distraction, he could not have succeeded better. + </p> + <p> + “Poor woman!” he said, “what is to become of you? + Maxence is a good and honest fellow, I am sure, but so weak, so + thoughtless, so fond of pleasure! He finds it difficult enough to + get along by himself. Of what assistance will he be to you?” + </p> + <p> + Then came advice. + </p> + <p> + Mme. Favoral, he declared, should not hesitate to ask for a separation, + which the tribunal would certainly grant. For want of this + precaution, she would remain all her life under the burden of her + husband’s debts, and constantly exposed to the annoyances of the + creditors. + </p> + <p> + And always he wound up by saying, + </p> + <p> + “Who could ever have expected such a thing from Vincent,—a + friend of twenty years’ standing! A hundred and sixty thousand + francs! Who in the world can be trusted hereafter?” + </p> + <p> + Big tears were rolling slowly down Mme. Favoral’s withered cheeks. + But Mlle. Gilberte was of those for whom the pity of others is the worst + misfortune and the most acute suffering. + </p> + <p> + Twenty times she was on the point of exclaiming, + </p> + <p> + “Keep your compassion, sir: we are neither so much to be + pitied nor so much forsaken as you think. Our misfortune has + revealed to us a true friend,—one who does not speak, but acts.” + </p> + <p> + At last, as twelve o’clock struck, M. Chapelain withdrew, announcing that + he would return the next day to get the news, and to bring further + consolation. + </p> + <p> + “Thank Heaven, we are alone at last!” said Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + But they had not much peace, for all that. + </p> + <p> + Great as had been the noise of Vincent Favoral’s disaster, it had not + reached at once all those who had intrusted their savings to him. + All day long, the belated creditors kept coming in; and the scenes of the + morning were renewed on a smaller scale. Then legal summonses began + to pour in, three or four at a time. Mme. Favoral was losing all + courage. + </p> + <p> + “What disgrace!” she groaned. “Will it always be + so hereafter?” + </p> + <p> + And she exhausted herself in useless conjectures upon the causes of the + catastrophe; and such was the disorder of her mind, that she knew not what + to hope and what to fear, and that from one minute to another she wished + for the most contradictory things. + </p> + <p> + She would have been glad to hear that her husband was safe out of the + country, and yet she would have deemed herself less miserable, had she + known that he was hid somewhere in Paris. + </p> + <p> + And obstinately the same questions returned to her lips, + </p> + <p> + “Where is he now? What is he doing? What is he thinking + about? How can he leave us without news? Is it possible that + it is a woman who has driven him into the precipice? And, if so, who + is that woman?” + </p> + <p> + Very different were Mlle. Gilberte’s thoughts. + </p> + <p> + The great calamity that befell her family had brought about the sudden + realization of her hopes. Her father’s disaster had given her an + opportunity to test the man she loved; and she had found him even superior + to all that she could have dared to dream. The name of Favoral was + forever disgraced; but she was going to be the wife of Marius, Marquise de + Tregars. + </p> + <p> + And, in the candor of her loyal soul, she accused herself of not taking + enough interest in her mother’s grief, and reproached herself for the + quivers of joy which she felt within her. + </p> + <p> + “Where is Maxence?” asked Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + “Where is M. de Tregars? Why have they told us nothing of + their projects?” + </p> + <p> + “They will, no doubt, come home to dinner,” replied Mlle. + Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + So well was she convinced of this, that she had given orders to the + servant to have a somewhat better dinner than usual; and her heart was + beating at the thought of being seated near Marius, between her mother and + her brother. + </p> + <p> + At about six o’clock, the bell rang violently. + </p> + <p> + “There he is!” said the young girl, rising to her feet. + </p> + <p> + But no: it was only the porter, bringing up a summons ordering Mme. + Favoral, under penalty of the law, to appear the next day, at one o’clock + precisely, before the examining judge, Barban d’Avranchel, at his office + in the Palace of Justice. + </p> + <p> + The poor woman came near fainting. + </p> + <p> + “What can this judge want with me? It ought to be forbidden to + call a wife to testify against her husband,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “M. de Tregars will tell you what to answer, mamma,” said + Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + Meantime, seven o’clock came, then eight, and still neither Maxence nor M. + de Tregars had come. + </p> + <p> + Both mother and daughter were becoming anxious, when at last, a little + before nine, they heard steps in the hall. + </p> + <p> + Marius de Tregars appeared almost immediately. + </p> + <p> + He was pale; and his face bore the trace of the crushing fatigues of the + day, of the cares which oppressed him, of the reflections which had been + suggested to his mind by the quarrel of which he had nearly been the + victim a few moments since. + </p> + <p> + “Maxence is not here?” he asked at once. + </p> + <p> + “We have not seen him,” answered Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + He seemed so much surprised, that Mme. Favoral was frightened. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter again, good God!” she exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, madame,” said M. de Tregars,—“nothing + that should alarm you. Compelled, about two hours ago, to part from + Maxence, I was to have met him here. Since he has not come, he must + have been detained. I know where; and I will ask your permission to + run and join him.” + </p> + <p> + He went out; but Mlle. Gilberte followed him in the hall, and, taking his + hand, + </p> + <p> + “How kind of you!” she began, “and how can we ever + sufficiently thank you?” + </p> + <p> + He interrupted her. + </p> + <p> + “You owe me no thanks, my beloved; for, in what I am doing, there is + more selfishness than you think. It is my own cause, more than + yours, that I am defending. Any way, every thing is going on well.” + </p> + <p> + And, without giving any more explanations, he started again. He had + no doubt that Maxence, after leaving him, had run to the Hotel des Folies + to give to Mlle. Lucienne an account of the day’s work. And, though + somewhat annoyed that he had tarried so long, on second thought, he was + not surprised. + </p> + <p> + It was, therefore, to the Hotel des Folies that he was going. Now + that he had unmasked his batteries and begun the struggle, he was not + sorry to meet Mlle. Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + In less than five minutes he had reached the Boulevard du Temple. In + front of the Fortins’ narrow corridor a dozen idlers were standing, + talking. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was listening as he went along. + </p> + <p> + “It is a frightful accident,” said one,—“such a + pretty girl, and so young too!” + </p> + <p> + “As to me,” said another, “it is the driver that I pity + the most; for after all, if that pretty miss was in that carriage, it was + for her own pleasure; whereas, the poor coachman was only attending to his + business.” + </p> + <p> + A confused presentiment oppressed M. de Tregars’ heart. Addressing + himself to one of those worthy citizens, + </p> + <p> + “Have you heard any particulars?” + </p> + <p> + Flattered by the confidence, + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I have,” he replied. “I didn’t see the + thing with my own proper eyes; but my wife did. It was terrible. + The carriage, a magnificent private carriage too, came from the direction + of the Madeleine. The horses had run away; and already there had + been an accident in the Place du Chateau d’Eau, where an old woman had + been knocked down. Suddenly, here, over there, opposite the + toy-shop, which is mine, by the way, the wheel of the carriage catches + into the wheel of an enormous truck; and at once, palata! the coachman is + thrown down, and so is the lady, who was inside,—a very pretty girl, + who lives in this hotel.” + </p> + <p> + Leaving there the obliging narrator, M. de Tregars rushed through the + narrow corridor of the Hotel des Folies. At the moment when he + reached the yard, he found himself in presence of Maxence. + </p> + <p> + Pale, his head bare, his eyes wild, shaking with a nervous chill, the poor + fellow looked like a madman. Noticing M. de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, my friend!” he exclaimed, “what misfortune!” + </p> + <p> + “Lucienne?” + </p> + <p> + “Dead, perhaps. The doctor will not answer for her recovery. + I am going to the druggist’s to get a prescription.” + </p> + <p> + He was interrupted by the commissary of police, whose kind protection had + hitherto preserved Mlle. Lucienne. He was coming out of the little + room on the ground-floor, which the Fortins used for an office, bedroom, + and dining-room. + </p> + <p> + He had recognized Marius de Tregars, and, coming up to him, he pressed his + hand, saying, “Well, you know?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “It is my fault, M. le Marquis; for we were fully notified. I + knew so well that Mlle. Lucienne’s existence was threatened, I was so + fully expecting a new attempt upon her life, that, whenever she went out + riding, it was one of my men, wearing a footman’s livery, who took his + seat by the side of the coachman. To-day my man was so busy, that I + said to myself, ‘Bash, for once!’ And behold the + consequences!” + </p> + <p> + It was with inexpressible astonishment that Maxence was listening. + It was with a profound stupor that he discovered between Marius and the + commissary that serious intimacy which is the result of long intercourse, + real esteem, and common hopes. + </p> + <p> + “It is not an accident, then,” remarked M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “The coachman has spoken, doubtless?” + </p> + <p> + “No: the wretch was killed on the spot.” + </p> + <p> + And, without waiting for another question, + </p> + <p> + “But don’t let us stay here,” said the commissary. + </p> + <p> + “Whilst Maxence runs to the drug-store, let us go into the Fortins’ + office.” + </p> + <p> + The husband was alone there, the wife being at that moment with Mlle. + Lucienne. + </p> + <p> + “Do me the favor to go and take a walk for about fifteen minutes,” + said the commissary to him. “We have to talk, this gentleman + and myself.” + </p> + <p> + Humbly, without a word, and like a man who does himself justice, M. Fortin + slipped off. + </p> + <p> + And at once,—“It is clear, M. le Marquis, it is manifest, that + a crime has been committed. Listen, and judge for yourself. I + was just rising from dinner, when I was notified of what was called our + poor Lucienne’s accident. Without even changing my clothes, I ran. + The carriage was lying in the street, broken to pieces. Two + policemen were holding the horses, which had been stopped. I + inquire. I learn that Lucienne, picked up by Maxence, has been able + to drag herself as far as the Hotel des Folies, and that the driver has + been taken to the nearest drug-store. Furious at my own negligence, + and tormented by vague suspicions, it is to the druggist’s that I go + first, and in all haste. The driver was in a backroom, stretched on + a mattress. + </p> + <p> + “His head having struck the angle of the curbstone, his skull was + broken; and he had just breathed his last. It was, apparently, the + annihilation of the hope which I had, of enlightening myself by + questioning this man. Nevertheless, I give orders to have him + searched. No paper is discovered upon him to establish his identity; + but, in one of the pockets of his pantaloons, do you know what they find? + Two bank-notes of a thousand francs each, carefully wrapped up in a + fragment of newspaper.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had shuddered. + </p> + <p> + “What a revelation!” he murmured. + </p> + <p> + It was not to the present circumstance that he applied that word. + But the commissary naturally mistook him. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” he went on, “it was a revelation. To me + these two thousand francs were worth a confession: they could only + be the wages of a crime. So, without losing a moment, I jump into a + cab, and drive to Brion’s. Everybody was upside down, because the + horses had just been brought back. I question; and, from the very + first words, the correctness of my presumption is demonstrated to me. + The wretch who had just died was not one of Brion’s coachmen. This + is what had happened. At two o’clock, when the carriage ordered by + M. Van Klopen was ready to go for Mlle. Lucienne, they had been compelled + to send for the driver and the footman, who had forgotten themselves + drinking in a neighboring wine-shop, with a man who had called to see them + in the morning. They were slightly under the influence of wine, but + not enough so to make it imprudent to trust them with horses; and it was + even probable that the fresh air would sober them completely. They + had then started; but, they had not gone very far, for one of their + comrades had seen them stop the carriage in front of a wine-shop, and join + there the same individual with whom they had been drinking all the + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “And who was no other than the man who was killed?” + </p> + <p> + “Wait. Having obtained this information, I get some one to + take me to the wine-shop; and I ask for the coachman and the footman from + Brion’s. They were there still; and they are shown to me in a + private room, lying on the floor, fast asleep. I try to wake them + up, but in vain. I order to water them freely; but a pitcher of + water thrown on their faces has no effect, save to make them utter an + inarticulate groan. I guess at once what they have taken. I + send for a physician, and I call on the wine-merchant for explanations. + It is his wife and his barkeeper who answer me. They tell me, that, + at about two o’clock, a man came in the shop, who stated that he was + employed at Brion’s, and who ordered three glasses for himself and two + comrades, whom he was expecting. + </p> + <p> + “A few moments later, a carriage stops at the door; and the driver + and the footman leave it to come in. They were in a great hurry, + they said, and only wished to take one glass. They do take three, + one after another; then they order a bottle. They were evidently + forgetting their horses, which they had given to hold to a commissionaire. + Soon the man proposes a game. The others accept; and here they are, + settled in the back-room, knocking on the table for sealed wine. The + game must have lasted at least twenty minutes. At the end of that + time, the man who had come in first appeared, looking very much annoyed, + saying that it was very unpleasant, that his comrades were dead drunk, + that they will miss their work, and that the boss, who is anxious to + please his customers, will certainly dismiss them. Although he had + taken as much, and more than the rest, he was perfectly steady; and, after + reflecting for a moment,—‘I have an idea,’ he says. + ‘Friends should help each other, shouldn’t they? I am going to + take the coachman’s livery, and drive in his stead. I happen to know + the customer they were going after. She is a very kind old lady, and + I’ll tell her a story to explain the absence of the footman.’ + </p> + <p> + “Convinced that the man is in Brion’s employment, they have no + objection to offer to this fine project. + </p> + <p> + “The brigand puts on the livery of the sleeping coachman, gets up on + the box, and starts off, after stating that he will return for his + comrades as soon as he has got through the job, and that doubtless they + will be sober by that time.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars knew well enough the savoir-faire of the commissary not to + be surprised at his promptness in obtaining precise information. + </p> + <p> + Already he was going on, + </p> + <p> + “Just as I was closing my examination, the doctor arrived. I + show him my drunkards; and at once he recognizes that I have guessed + correctly, and that these men have been put asleep by means of one of + those narcotics of which certain thieves make use to rob their victims. + A potion, which he administers to them by forcing their teeth open with a + knife, draws them from this lethargy. They open their eyes, and soon + are in condition to reply to my questions. They are furious at the + trick that has been played upon them; but they do not know the man. + They saw him, they swear to me, for the first time that very morning; and + they are ignorant even of his name.” + </p> + <p> + There was no doubt possible after such complete explanations. The + commissary had seen correctly, and he proved it. + </p> + <p> + It was not of a vulgar accident that Mlle. Lucienne had just been the + victim, but of a crime laboriously conceived, and executed with unheard-of + audacity,—of one of those crimes such as too many are committed, + whose combinations, nine times out of ten, set aside even a suspicion, and + foil all the efforts of human justice. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars knew now what had taken place, as clearly as if he had + himself received the confession of the guilty parties. + </p> + <p> + A man had been found to execute that perilous programme,—to make the + horses run away, and then to run into some heavy wagon. The wretch + was staking his life on that game; it being evident that the light + carriage must be smashed in a thousand pieces. But he must have + relied upon his skill and his presence of mind, to avoid the shock, to + jump off safe and sound; whilst Mlle. Lucienne, thrown upon the pavement, + would probably be killed on the spot. The event had deceived his + expectations, and he had been the victim of his rascality; but his death + was a misfortune. + </p> + <p> + “Because now,” resumed the commissary, “the thread is + broken in our hands which would infallibly have led us to the truth. + Who is it that ordered the crime, and paid for it? We know it, since + we know who benefits by the crime. But that is not sufficient. + Justice requires something more than moral proofs. Living, this + bandit would have spoken. His death insures the impunity of the + wretches of whom he was but the instrument.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps,” said M. Tregars. + </p> + <p> + And at the same time he took out of his pocket, and showed the note found + in Vincent Favoral’s pocket-book,—that note, so obscure the day + before, now so terribly clear. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot understand your negligence. You should get through + with that Van Klopen affair: there is the danger.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary of police cast but a glance upon it, and, replying to the + objections of his old experience rather more than addressing himself to M. + de Tregars, + </p> + <p> + “There can be no doubt about it,” he murmured. “It + is to the crime committed to-day that these pressing recommendations + relate; and, directed as they are to Vincent Favoral, they attest his + complicity. It was he who had charge of finishing the Van Klopen + affair; in other words, to get rid of Lucienne. It was he, I’d wager + my head, who had treated with the false coachman.” + </p> + <p> + He remained for over a minute absorbed in his own thoughts, then, + </p> + <p> + “But who is the author of these recommendations to Vincent Favoral? + Do you know that, M. le Marquis?” he said. + </p> + <p> + They looked at each other; and the same name rose to their lips, + </p> + <p> + “The Baroness de Thaller!” + </p> + <p> + This name, however, they did not utter. + </p> + <p> + The commissary had placed himself under the gasburner which gave light to + the Fortin’s office; and, adjusting his glasses, he was scrutinizing the + note with the most minute attention, studying the grain and the + transparency of the paper, the ink, and the handwriting. And at + last, + </p> + <p> + “This note,” he declared, “cannot constitute a proof + against its author: I mean an evident, material proof, such as we + require to obtain from a judge an order of arrest.” + </p> + <p> + And, as Marius was protesting, + </p> + <p> + “This note,” he insisted, “is written with the left + hand, with common ink, on ordinary foolscap paper, such as is found + everywhere. Now all left-hand writings look alike. Draw your + own conclusions.” + </p> + <p> + But M. de Tregars did not give it up yet. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment,” he interrupted. + </p> + <p> + And briefly, though with the utmost exactness, he began telling his visit + to the Thaller mansion, his conversation with Mlle. Cesarine, then with + the baroness, and finally with the baron himself. + </p> + <p> + He described in the most graphic manner the scene which had taken place in + the grand parlor between Mme. de Thaller and a worse than + suspicious-looking man,—that scene, the secret of which had been + revealed to him in its minutest details by the looking-glass. Its + meaning was now as clear as day. + </p> + <p> + This suspicious-looking man had been one of the agents in arranging the + intended murder: hence the agitation of the baroness when she had + received his card, and her haste to join him. If she had started + when he first spoke to her, it was because he was telling her of the + successful execution of the crime. If she had afterwards made a + gesture of joy, it was because he had just informed her that the coachman + had been killed at the same time, and that she found herself thus rid of a + dangerous accomplice. + </p> + <p> + The commissary of police shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “All this is quite probable,” he murmured; “but that’s + all.” + </p> + <p> + Again M. de Tregars stopped him. + </p> + <p> + “I have not done yet,” he said. + </p> + <p> + And he went on saying how he had been suddenly and brutally assaulted by + an unknown man in a restaurant; how he had collared this abject scoundrel, + and taken out of his pocket a crushing letter, which left no doubt as to + the nature of his mission. + </p> + <p> + The commissary’s eyes were sparkling, + </p> + <p> + “That letter!” he exclaimed, “that letter!” + And, as soon as he had looked over it, + </p> + <p> + “Ah! This time,” he resumed, “I think that we have + something tangible. ‘A troublesome gentleman to keep quiet,’—the + Marquis de Tregars, of course, who is on the right track. ‘It + will be for you the matter of a sword-thrust.’ Naturally, dead + men tell no tales. ‘It will be for us the occasion of dividing + a round amount.’ An honest trade, indeed!” + </p> + <p> + The good man was rubbing his hand with all his might. + </p> + <p> + “At last we have a positive fact,” he went on,—“a + foundation upon which to base our accusations. Don’t be uneasy. + That letter is going to place into our hands the scoundrel who assaulted + you,—who will make known the go-between, who himself will not fail + to surrender the Baroness de Thaller. Lucienne shall be avenged. + If we could only now lay our hands on Vincent Favoral! But we’ll + find him yet. I set two fellows after him this afternoon, who have a + superior scent, and understand their business.” + </p> + <p> + He was here interrupted by Maxence, who was returning all out of breath, + holding in his hand the medicines which he had gone after. + </p> + <p> + “I thought that druggist would never get through,” he said. + </p> + <p> + And regretting to have remained away so long, feeling uneasy, and anxious + to return up stairs, + </p> + <p> + “Don’t you wish to see Lucienne?” he added, addressing himself + to M. de Tregars rather more than to the commissary. + </p> + <p> + For all answer, they followed him at once. + </p> + <p> + A cheerless-looking place was Mlle. Lucienne’s room, without any furniture + but a narrow iron bedstead, a dilapidated bureau, four straw-bottomed + chairs, and a small table. Over the bed, and at the windows, were + white muslin curtains, with an edging that had once been blue, but had + become yellow from repeated washings. + </p> + <p> + Often Maxence had begged his friend to take a more comfortable lodging, + and always she had refused. + </p> + <p> + “We must economize,” she would say. “This room + does well enough for me; and, besides, I am accustomed to it.” + </p> + <p> + When M. de Tregars and the commissary walked in, the estimable hostess of + the Hotel des Folies was kneeling in front of the fire, preparing some + medicine. + </p> + <p> + Hearing the footsteps, she got up, and, with a finger upon her lips, + </p> + <p> + “Hush!” she said. “Take care not to wake her up!” + The precaution was useless. + </p> + <p> + “I am not asleep,” said Mlle. Lucienne in a feeble voice. + “Who is there?” + </p> + <p> + “I,” replied Maxence, advancing towards the bed. + </p> + <p> + It was only necessary to see the poor girl in order to understand + Maxence’s frightful anxiety. She was whiter than the sheet; and + fever, that horrible fever which follows severe wounds, gave to her eyes a + sinister lustre. + </p> + <p> + “But you are not alone,” she said again. + </p> + <p> + “I am with him, my child,” replied the commissary. + “I come to beg your pardon for having so badly protected you.” + </p> + <p> + She shook her head with a sad and gentle motion. + </p> + <p> + “It was myself who lacked prudence,” she said; “for + to-day, while out, I thought I noticed something wrong; but it looked so + foolish to be afraid! If it had not happened to-day, it would have + happened some other day. The villains who have been pursuing me for + years must be satisfied now. They will soon be rid of me.” + </p> + <p> + “Lucienne,” said Maxence in a sorrowful tone. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars now stepped forward. + </p> + <p> + “You shall live, mademoiselle,” he uttered in a grave voice. + “You shall live to learn to love life.” + </p> + <p> + And, as she was looking at him in surprise, + </p> + <p> + “You do not know me,” he added. + </p> + <p> + Timidly, and as if doubting the reality, + </p> + <p> + “You,” she said, “the Marquis de Tregars!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, mademoiselle, your brother.” + </p> + <p> + Had he had the control of events, Marius de Tregars would probably not + have been in such haste to reveal this fact. + </p> + <p> + But how could he control himself in presence of that bed where a poor girl + was, perhaps, about to die, sacrificed to the terrors and to the cravings + of the miserable woman who was her mother,—to die at twenty, victim + of the basest and most odious of crimes? How could he help feeling + an intense pity at the sight of this unfortunate young woman who had + endured every thing that a human being can suffer, whose life had been but + a long and painful struggle, whose courage had risen above all the woes of + adversity, and who had been able to pass without a stain through the mud + and mire of Paris. + </p> + <p> + Besides, Marius was not one of those men who mistrust their first impulse, + who manifest their emotion only for a purpose, who reflect and calculate + before giving themselves up to the inspirations of their heart. + </p> + <p> + Lucienne was the daughter of the Marquis de Tregars: of that he was + absolutely certain. He knew that the same blood flowed in his veins + and in hers; and he told her so. + </p> + <p> + He told her so, above all, because he believed her in danger; and he + wished, were she to die, that she should have, at least, that supreme joy. + Poor Lucienne! Never had she dared to dream of such happiness. + All her blood rushed to her cheeks; and, in a voice vibrating with the + most intense emotion, + </p> + <p> + “Ah, now, yes,” she uttered, “I would like to live.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary of police, also, felt moved. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be alarmed, my child,” he said in his kindest tone. + “Before two weeks you will be up. M. de Tregars is a great + physician.” + </p> + <p> + In the mean time, she had attempted to raise herself on her pillow; and + that simple effort had wrung from her a cry of anguish. + </p> + <p> + “Dear me! How I do suffer!” + </p> + <p> + “That’s because you won’t keep quiet, my darling,” said Mme. + Fortin in a tone of gentle scolding. “Have you forgotten that + the doctor has expressly forbidden you to stir?” + </p> + <p> + Then taking aside the commissary, Maxence, and M. de Tregars, she + explained to them how imprudent it was to disturb Mlle. Lucienne’s rest. + She was very ill, affirmed the worthy hostess; and her advice was, that + they should send for a sick-nurse as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + She would have been extremely happy, of course, to spend the night by the + side of her dear lodger; but, unfortunately, she could not think of it, + the hotel requiring all her time and attention. Fortunately, + however, she knew in the neighborhood a widow, a very honest woman, and + without her equal in taking care of the sick. + </p> + <p> + With an anxious and beseeching look, Maxence was consulting M. de Tregars. + In his eyes could be read the proposition that was burning upon his lips, + </p> + <p> + “Shall I not go for Gilberte?” + </p> + <p> + But that proposition he had no time to express. Though they had been + speaking very low, Mlle. Lucienne had heard. + </p> + <p> + “I have a friend,” she said, “who would certainly be + willing to sit up with me.” + </p> + <p> + They all went up to her. + </p> + <p> + “What friend,” inquired the commissary of police. + </p> + <p> + “You know her very well, sir. It is that poor girl who had + taken me home with her at Batignolles when I left the hospital, who came + to my assistance during the Commune, and whom you helped to get out of the + Versailles prisons.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know what has become of her?” + </p> + <p> + “Only since yesterday, when I received a letter from her, a very + friendly letter. She writes that she has found money to set up a + dressmaking establishment, and that she is relying upon me to be her + forewoman. She is going to open in the Rue St. Lazare; but, in the + mean time, she is stopping in the Rue du Cirque.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars and Maxence had started slightly. + </p> + <p> + “What is your friend’s name?” they inquired at once. + </p> + <p> + Not being aware of the particulars of the two young men’s visit to the Rue + du Cirque, the commissary of police could not understand the cause of + their agitation. + </p> + <p> + “I think,” he said, “that it would hardly be proper now + to send for that girl.” + </p> + <p> + “It is to her alone, on the contrary, that we must resort,” + interrupted M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + And, as he had good reasons to mistrust Mme. Fortin, he took the + commissary outside the room, on the landing; and there, in a few words, he + explained to him that this Zelie was precisely the same woman whom they + had found in the Rue du Cirque, in that sumptuous mansion where Vincent + Favoral, under the simple name of Vincent, had been living, according to + the neighbors, in such a princely style. + </p> + <p> + The commissary of police was astounded. Why had he not known all + this sooner? Better late than never, however. + </p> + <p> + “Ah! you are right, M. le Marquis, a hundred times right!” he + declared. “This girl must evidently know Vincent Favoral’s + secret, the key of the enigma that we are vainly trying to solve. + What she would not tell to you, a stranger, she will tell to Lucienne, her + friend.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence offered to go himself for Zelie Cadelle. + </p> + <p> + “No,” answered Marius. “If she should happen to + know you, she would mistrust you, and would refuse to come.” + </p> + <p> + It was, therefore, M. Fortin who was despatched to the Rue du Cirque, and + who went off muttering, though he had received five francs to take a + carriage, and five francs for his trouble. + </p> + <p> + “And now,” said the commissary of police to Maxence, “we + must both of us get out of the way. I, because the fact of my being + a commissary would frighten Mme. Cadelle; you because, being Vincent + Favoral’s son, your presence would certainly prove embarrassing to her.” + </p> + <p> + And so they went out; but M. de Tregars did not remain long alone with + Mlle. Lucienne. M. Fortin had had the delicacy not to tarry on the + way. + </p> + <p> + Eleven o’clock struck as Zelie Cadelle rushed like a whirlwind into her + friend’s room. + </p> + <p> + Such had been his haste, that she had given no thought whatever to her + dress. She had stuck upon her uncombed hair the first bonnet she had + laid her hand upon, and thrown an old shawl over the wrapper in which she + had received Marius in the afternoon. + </p> + <p> + “What, my poor Lucienne!” she exclaimed. “Are you + so sick as all that?” + </p> + <p> + But she stopped short as she recognized M. de Tregars; and, in a + suspicious tone, + </p> + <p> + “What a singular meeting!” she said. + </p> + <p> + Marius bowed. + </p> + <p> + “You know Lucienne?” + </p> + <p> + What she meant by that he understood perfectly. “Lucienne is + my sister, madame,” he said coldly. + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders. “What humbug!” + </p> + <p> + “It’s the truth,” affirmed Mlle. Lucienne; “and you know + that I never lie.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie was dumbfounded. + </p> + <p> + “If you say so,” she muttered. “But no matter: + that’s queer.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars interrupted her with a gesture, + </p> + <p> + “And, what’s more, it is because Lucienne is my sister that you see + her there lying upon that bed. They attempted to murder her to-day!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “It was her mother who tried to get rid of her, so as to possess + herself of the fortune which my father had left her; and there is every + reason to believe that the snare was contrived by Vincent Favoral.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Zelie did not understand very well; but, when Marius and Mlle. + Lucienne had informed her of all that it was useful for her to know, + </p> + <p> + “Why,” she exclaimed, “what a horrid rascal that old + Vincent must be!” + </p> + <p> + And, as M. de Tregars remained dumb, + </p> + <p> + “This afternoon,” she went on, “I didn’t tell you any + stories; but I didn’t tell you every thing, either.” She + stopped; and, after a moment of deliberation, + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don’t care for old Vincent,” she said. “Ah! + he tried to have Lucienne killed, did he? Well, then, I am going to + tell every thing I know. First of all, he wasn’t any thing to me. + It isn’t very flattering; but it is so. He has never kissed so much + as the end of my finger. He used to say that he loved me, but that + he respected me still more, because I looked so much like a daughter he + had lost. Old humbug! And I believed him too! I did, + upon my word, at least in the beginning. But I am not such a fool as + I look. I found out very soon that he was making fun of me; and that + he was only using me as a blind to keep suspicion away from another woman.” + </p> + <p> + “From what woman?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! now, I do not know! All I know is that she is married, + that he is crazy about her, and that they are to run away together.” + </p> + <p> + “Hasn’t he gone, then?” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Cadelle’s face had become somewhat anxious, and for over a minute she + seemed to hesitate. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” she said at last, “that my answer is + going to cost me a lot? They have promised me a pile of money; but I + haven’t got it yet. And, if I say any thing, good-by! I + sha’n’t have any thing.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars was opening his lips to tell her that she might rest easy on + that score; but she cut him short. + </p> + <p> + “Well, no,” she said: “Old Vincent hasn’t gone. + He got up a comedy, so he told me, to throw the lady’s husband off the + track. He sent off a whole lot of baggage by the railroad; but he + staid in Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you know where he is hid?” + </p> + <p> + “In the Rue St. Lazare, of course: in the apartment that I + hired two weeks ago.” + </p> + <p> + In a voice trembling with the excitement of almost certain success, + “Would you consent to take me there?” asked M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “Whenever you like,—to-morrow.” + </p> + <h2> + IX + </h2> + <p> + As he left Mlle. Lucienne’s room, + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing more to keep me at the Hotel des Folies,” + said the commissary of police to Maxence. “Every thing + possible will be done, and well done, by M. de Tregars. I am going + home, therefore; and I am going to take you with me. I have a great + deal to do and you’ll help me.” + </p> + <p> + That was not exactly true; but he feared, on the part of Maxence, some + imprudence which might compromise the success of M. de Tregars’ mission. + </p> + <p> + He was trying to think of every thing to leave as little as possible to + chance; like a man who has seen the best combined plans fail for want of a + trifling precaution. + </p> + <p> + Once in the yard, he opened the door of the lodge where the honorable + Fortins, man and wife, were deliberating, and exchanging their + conjectures, instead of going to bed. For they were wonderfully + puzzled by all those events that succeeded each other, and anxious about + all these goings and comings. + </p> + <p> + “I am going home,” the commissary said to them; “but, + before that, listen to my instructions. You will allow no one, you + understand, —no one who is not known to you, to go up to Mlle. + Lucienne’s room. And remember that I will admit of no excuse, and + that you must not come and tell me afterwards, ‘It isn’t our fault, + we can’t see everybody that comes in,’ and all that sort of + nonsense.” + </p> + <p> + He was speaking in that harsh and imperious tone of which police-agents + have the secret, when they are addressing people who have, by their + conduct, placed themselves under their dependence. + </p> + <p> + “We are going to close our front-door,” replied the estimable + hotel-keepers. “We will comply strictly with your orders.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust so; because, if you should disobey me, I should hear it, + and the result would be a serious trouble to you. Besides your hotel + being unmercifully closed up, you would find yourselves implicated in a + very bad piece of business.” + </p> + <p> + The most ardent curiosity could be read in Mme. Fortin’s little eyes. + </p> + <p> + “I understood at once,” she began, “that something + extraordinary was going on.” + </p> + <p> + But the commissary interrupted her, + </p> + <p> + “I have not done yet. It may be that to-night or to-morrow + some one will call and inquire how Mlle. Lucienne is.” + </p> + <p> + “And then?” + </p> + <p> + “You will answer that she is as bad as possible; and that she has + neither spoken a word, nor recovered her senses, since the accident; and + that she will certainly not live through the day.” + </p> + <p> + The effort which Mme. Fortin made to remain silent gave, better than any + thing else, an idea of the terror with which the commissary inspired her. + </p> + <p> + “That is not all,” he went on. “As soon as the + person in question has started off, you will follow him, without + affectation, as far as the street-door, and you will point him out with + your finger, here, like that, to one of my agents, who will happen to be + on the Boulevard.” + </p> + <p> + “And suppose he should not be there?” + </p> + <p> + “He shall be there. You can make yourself easy on that score.” + </p> + <p> + The looks of distress which the honorable hotel-keepers were exchanging + did not announce a very tranquil conscience. + </p> + <p> + “In other words, here we are under surveillance,” said M. + Fortin with a groan. “What have we done to be thus mistrusted?” + </p> + <p> + To reply to him would have been a task more long than difficult. + </p> + <p> + “Do as I tell you,” insisted the commissary harshly, “and + don’t mind the rest, and, meantime, good-night.” + </p> + <p> + He was right in trusting implicitly to his agent’s punctuality; for, as + soon as he came out of the Hotel des Folies, a man passed by him, and + without seeming to address him, or even to recognize him, said in a + whisper, + </p> + <p> + “What news?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing,” he replied, “except that the Fortins are + notified. The trap is well set. Keep your eyes open now, and + spot any one who comes to ask about Mlle. Lucienne.” + </p> + <p> + And he hurried on, still followed by Maxence, who walked along like a body + without soul, tortured by the most frightful anguish. + </p> + <p> + As he had been away the whole evening, four or five persons were waiting + for him at his office on matters of current business. He despatched + them in less than no time; after which, addressing himself to an agent on + duty, + </p> + <p> + “This evening,” he said, “at about nine o’clock, in a + restaurant on the Boulevard, a quarrel took place. A person tried to + pick a quarrel with another. + </p> + <p> + “You will proceed at once to that restaurant; you will get the + particulars of what took place; and you will ascertain exactly who this + man is, his name, his profession, and his residence.” + </p> + <p> + Like a man accustomed to such errands, + </p> + <p> + “Can I have a description of him?” inquired the agent. + </p> + <p> + “Yes. He is a man past middle age, military bearing, heavy + mustache, ribbons in his buttonhole.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I see: one of your regular fighting fellows.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well. Go then. I shall not retire before your + return. Ah, I forgot; find out what they thought to-night on the + ‘street’ about the Mutual Credit affair, and what they said of + the arrest of one Saint Pavin, editor of ‘The Financial Pilot,’ + and of a banker named Jottras.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I take a carriage?” + </p> + <p> + “Do so.” + </p> + <p> + The agent started; and he was not fairly out of the house, when the + commissary, opening a door which gave into a small study, called, “Felix!” + </p> + <p> + It was his secretary, a man of about thirty, blonde, with a gentle and + timid countenance, having, with his long coat, somewhat the appearance of + a theological student. He appeared immediately. + </p> + <p> + “You call me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Felix,” replied the commissary, “I have seen + you, sometimes, imitate very nicely all sorts of hand-writings.” + </p> + <p> + The secretary blushed very much, no doubt on account of Maxence, who was + sitting by the side of his employer. He was a very honest fellow; + but there are certain little talents of which people do not like to boast; + and the talent of imitating the writing of others is of the number, for + the reason, that, fatally and at once, it suggests the idea of forgery. + </p> + <p> + “It was only for fun that I used to do that, sir,” he + stammered. + </p> + <p> + “Would you be here if it had been otherwise?” said the + commissary. “Only this time it is not for fun, but to do me a + favor that I wish you to try again.” + </p> + <p> + And, taking out of his pocket the letter taken by M. de Tregars from the + man in the restaurant, + </p> + <p> + “Examine this writing,” he said, “and see whether you + feel capable of imitating it tolerably well.” + </p> + <p> + Spreading the letter under the full light of the lamp, the secretary spent + at least two minutes examining it with the minute attention of an expert. + And at the same time he was muttering, + </p> + <p> + “Not at all convenient, this. Hard writing to imitate. + Not a salient feature, not a characteristic sign! Nothing to strike + the eye, or attract attention. It must be some old lawyer’s clerk + who wrote this.” + </p> + <p> + In spite of his anxiety of mind, the commissary smiled. + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t be surprised if you had guessed right.” + </p> + <p> + Thus encouraged, + </p> + <p> + “At any rate,” Felix declared, “I am going to try.” + </p> + <p> + He took a pen, and, after trying a dozen times, + </p> + <p> + “How is this?” he asked, holding out a sheet of paper. + </p> + <p> + The commissary carefully compared the original with the copy. + </p> + <p> + “It is not perfect,” he murmured; “but at night, with + the imagination excited by a great peril—Besides, we must risk + something.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had a few hours to practise!” + </p> + <p> + “But you have not. Come, take up your pen, and write as well + as you can, in that same hand, what I am going to tell you.” + </p> + <p> + And after a moment’s thought, he dictated as follows: + </p> + <p> + “All goes well. T. drawn into a quarrel, is to fight in the + morning with swords. But our man, whom I cannot leave, refuses to go + ahead, unless he is paid two thousand francs before the duel. I have + not the amount. Please hand it to the bearer, who has orders to wait + for you.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary, leaning over his secretary’s shoulder, was following his + hand, and, the last word being written, + </p> + <p> + “Perfect!” he exclaimed. “Now quick, the address: + Mme. la Baronne de Thaller, Rue de le Pepiniere.” + </p> + <p> + There are professions which extinguish, in those who exercise them, all + curiosity. It is with the most complete indifference, and without + asking a question, that the secretary had done what he had been requested. + </p> + <p> + “Now, my dear Felix,” resumed the commissary, “you will + please get yourself up as near as possible like a restaurant-waiter, and + take this letter to its address.” + </p> + <p> + “At this hour!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. The Baroness de Thaller is out to a ball. You will + tell the servants that you are bringing her an answer concerning an + important matter. They know nothing about it; but they will allow + you to wait for their mistress in the porter’s lodge. As soon as she + comes in, you will hand her the letter, stating that two gentlemen who are + taking supper in your restaurant are waiting for the answer. It may + be that she will exclaim that you are a scoundrel, that she does not know + what it means: in that case, we shall have been anticipated, and you + must get away as fast as you can. But the chances are, that she will + give you two thousand francs; and then you must so manage, that she will + be seen plainly when she does it. Is it all understood?” + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly.” + </p> + <p> + “Go ahead, then, and do not lose a minute. I shall wait.” + </p> + <p> + Away from Mlle. Lucienne, Maxence had gradually been recalled to the + strangeness of the situation; and it was with a mingled feeling of + curiosity and surprise that he observed the commissary acting and bustling + about. + </p> + <p> + The good man had found again all the activity of his youth, together with + that fever of hope and that impatience of success, which usually disappear + with age. + </p> + <p> + He was going over the whole of the case again,—his first meeting + with Mlle. Lucienne, the various attempts upon her life; and he had just + taken out of the file the letter of information which had been intrusted + to him, in order to compare the writing with that of the letter taken from + his adversary by M. de Tregars, when the latter came in all out of breath. + </p> + <p> + “Zelie has spoken!” he said. + </p> + <p> + And, at once addressing Maxence, + </p> + <p> + “You, my dear friend,” he resumed, “you must run to the + Hotel des Folies.” + </p> + <p> + “Is Lucienne worse?” + </p> + <p> + “No. Lucienne is getting on well enough. Zelie has + spoken; but there is no certainty, that, after due reflection, she will + not repent, and go and give the alarm. You will return, therefore, + and you will not lose sight of her until I call for her in the morning. + If she wishes to go out, you must prevent her.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary had understood the importance of the precaution. + </p> + <p> + “You must prevent her,” he added, “even by force; and I + authorize you, if need be, to call upon the agent whom I have placed on + duty, watching the Hotel des Folies, and to whom I am going to send word + immediately.” + </p> + <p> + Maxence started off on a run. + </p> + <p> + “Poor fellow!” murmured Marius, “I know where your + father is. What are we going to learn now?” + </p> + <p> + He had scarcely had time to communicate the information he had received + from Mme. Cadelle, when the first of the commissary’s emissaries made his + appearance. + </p> + <p> + “The commission is done,” he said, in that confident tone of a + man who thinks he has successfully accomplished a difficult task. + </p> + <p> + “You know the name of the individual who sought a quarrel with M. de + Tregars?” + </p> + <p> + “His name is Corvi. He is well known in all the tables d’hote, + where there are women, and where they deal a healthy little game after + dinner. I know him well too. He is a bad fellow, who passes + himself off for a former superior officer in the Italian army.” + </p> + <p> + “His address?” + </p> + <p> + “He lives at Rue de la Michodiere, in a furnished house. I + went there. The porter told me that my man had just gone out with an + ill-looking individual, and that they must be in a little Café on + the corner of the next street. I ran there, and found my two fellows + drinking beer.” + </p> + <p> + “Won’t they give us the slip?” + </p> + <p> + “No danger of that: I have got them fixed.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” + </p> + <p> + “It is an idea of mine. I just thought, ‘Suppose they + put off?’ And at once I went to notify some policemen, and I + returned to station myself near the Café. It was just closing + up. My two fellows came out: I picked a quarrel with them; and + now they are in the station-house, well recommended.” + </p> + <p> + The commissary knit his brows. + </p> + <p> + “That’s almost too much zeal,” he murmured. “Well, + what’s done is done. Did you make any inquiries about the Saint + Pavin and Jottras matter?” + </p> + <p> + “I had no time, it was too late. You forget, perhaps, sir, + that it is nearly two o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + Just as he got through, the secretary who had been sent to the Rue de la + Pepiniere came in. + </p> + <p> + “Well?” inquired the commissary, not without evident anxiety. + </p> + <p> + “I waited for Mme. de Thaller over an hour,” he said. + “When she came home, I gave her the letter. She read it; and, + in presence of a number of her servants, she handed me these two thousand + francs.” + </p> + <p> + At the sight of the bank notes, the commissary jumped to his feet. + </p> + <p> + “Now we have it!” he exclaimed. “Here is the proof + that we wanted.” + </p> + <h2> + X + </h2> + <p> + It was after four o’clock when M. de Tregars was at last permitted to + return home. He had minutely, and at length, arranged every thing + with the commissary: he had endeavored to anticipate every + eventuality. His line of conduct was perfectly well marked out, and + he carried with him the certainty that on the day which was about to dawn + the strange game that he was playing must be finally won or lost. + When he reached home, + </p> + <p> + “At last, here you are, sir!” exclaimed his faithful servant. + </p> + <p> + It was doubtless anxiety that had kept up the old man all night; but so + absorbed was Marius’s mind, that he scarcely noticed the fact. + </p> + <p> + “Did any one call in my absence?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. A gentleman called during the evening, M. + Costeclar, who appeared very much vexed not to find you in. He + stated that he came on a very important matter that you would know all + about: and he requested me to ask you to wait for him to-morrow, + that is to-day, by twelve o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + Was M. Costeclar sent by M. de Thaller? Had the manager of the + Mutual Credit changed his mind? and had he decided to accept the + conditions which he had at first rejected? In that case, it was too + late. It was no longer in the power of any human being to suspend + the action of justice. Without giving any further thought to that + visit, + </p> + <p> + “I am worn out with fatigue,” said M. de Tregars, “and I + am going to lie down. At eight o’clock precisely you will call me.” + </p> + <p> + But it was in vain that he tried to find a short respite in sleep. + For forty-eight hours his mind had been taxed beyond measure, his nerves + had been wrought up to an almost intolerable degree of exaltation. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he closed his eyes, it was with a merciless precision that his + imagination presented to him all the events which had taken place since + that afternoon in the Place-Royale when he had ventured to declare his + love to Mlle. Gilberte. Who could have told him then, that he would + engage in that struggle, the issue of which must certainly be some + abominable scandal in which his name would be mixed? Who could have + told him, that gradually, and by the very force of circumstances, he would + be led to overcome his repugnance, and to rival the ruses and the tortuous + combinations of the wretches he was trying to reach? + </p> + <p> + But he was not of those who, once engaged, regret, hesitate, and draw + back. His conscience reproached him for nothing. It was for + justice and right that he was battling; and Mlle. Gilberte was the prize + that would reward him. + </p> + <p> + Eight o’clock struck; and his servant came in. + </p> + <p> + “Run for a cab,” he said: “I’ll be ready in a + moment.” + </p> + <p> + He was ready, in fact, when the old servant returned; and, as he had in + his pocket some of those arguments that lend wings to the poorest + cab-horses, in less than ten minutes he had reached the Hotel des Folies. + </p> + <p> + “How is Mlle. Lucienne?” he inquired first of all of the + worthy hostess. + </p> + <p> + The intervention of the commissary of police had made M. Fortin and his + wife more supple than gloves, and more gentle than doves. + </p> + <p> + “The poor dear child is much better,” answered Mme. Fortin; + “and the doctor, who has just left, now feels sure of her recovery. + But there is a row up there.” + </p> + <p> + “A row?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. That lady whom my husband went after last night insists + upon going out; and M. Maxence won’t let her: so that they are + quarreling up there. Just listen.” + </p> + <p> + The loud noise of a violent altercation could be heard distinctly. + M. de Tregars started up stairs, and on the second-story landing he found + Maxence holding on obstinately to the railing, whilst Mme. Zelie Cadelle, + redder than a peony, was trying to induce him to let her pass, treating + him at the same time to some of the choicest epithets of her well-stocked + repertory. Catching sight of Marius, + </p> + <p> + “Is it you,” she cried, “who gave orders to keep me here + against my wishes? By what right? Am I your prisoner?” + </p> + <p> + To irritate her would have been imprudent. + </p> + <p> + “Why did you wish to leave,” said M. de Tregars gently, + “at the very moment when you knew that I was to call for you?” + </p> + <p> + But she interrupted him, and, shrugging her shoulders, + </p> + <p> + “Why don’t you tell the truth?” she said. “You + were afraid to trust me.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh!” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong! What I promise to do I do. I only wanted + to go home to dress. Can I go in the street in this costume?” + </p> + <p> + And she was spreading out her wrapper, all faded and stained. + </p> + <p> + “I have a carriage below,” said Marius. “No one + will see us.” + </p> + <p> + Doubtless she understood that it was useless to hesitate. + </p> + <p> + “As you please,” she said. + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars took Maxence aside, and in a hurried whisper, + </p> + <p> + “You must,” said he, “go at once to the Rue St. Gilles, + and in my name request your sister to accompany you. You will take a + closed carriage, and you’ll go and wait in the Rue St. Lazare, opposite + No. 25. It may be that Mlle. Gilberte’s assistance will become + indispensable to me. And, as Lucienne must not be left alone, you + will request Mme. Fortin to go and stay with her.” + </p> + <p> + And, without waiting for an answer, + </p> + <p> + “Let us go,” he said to Mme. Cadelle. + </p> + <p> + They started but the young woman was far from being in her usual spirits. + It was clear that she was regretting bitterly having gone so far, and not + having been able to get away at the last moment. As the carriage + went on, she became paler and a frown appeared upon her face. + </p> + <p> + “No matter,” she began: “it’s a nasty thing I am + doing there.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you repent then, assisting me to punish your friend’s assassins?” + said M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + She shook her head. + </p> + <p> + “I know very well that old Vincent is a scoundrel,” she said; + “but he had trusted me, and I am betraying him.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken, madame. To furnish me the means of speaking + to M. Favoral is not to betray him; and I shall do every thing in my power + to enable him to escape the police, and make his way abroad.” + </p> + <p> + “What a joke!” + </p> + <p> + “It is the exact truth: I give you my word of honor.” + She seemed to feel easier; and, when the carriage turned into the Rue St. + Lazare, “Let us stop a moment,” she said. + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “So that I can buy old Vincent’s breakfast. He can’t go out to + eat, of course; and so I have to take all his meals to him.” + </p> + <p> + Marius’s mistrust was far from being dissipated; and yet he did not think + it prudent to refuse, promising himself, however, not to lose sight of + Mme. Zelie. He followed her, therefore, to the baker’s and the + butcher’s; and when she had done her marketing, he entered with her the + house of modest appearance where she had her apartment. + </p> + <p> + They were already going up stairs, when the porter ran out of his lodge. + </p> + <p> + “Madame!” he said, “madame!” + </p> + <p> + Mme. Cadelle stopped. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “A letter for you.” + </p> + <p> + “For me?” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is. A lady brought it less than five minutes ago. + Really, she looked annoyed not to find you in. But she is going to + come back. She knew you were to be here this morning.” + </p> + <p> + M. de Tregars had also stopped. + </p> + <p> + “What kind of a looking person was this lady?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Dressed all in black, with a thick veil on her face.” + </p> + <p> + “All right. I thank you.” + </p> + <p> + The porter returned to his lodge. Mme. Zelie broke the seal. + The first envelope contained another, upon which she spelt, for she did + not read very fluently, “To be handed to M. Vincent.” + </p> + <p> + “Some one knows that he is hiding here,” she said in a tone of + utter surprise. “Who can it be?” + </p> + <p> + “Who? Why, the woman whose reputation M. Favoral was so + anxious to spare when he put you in the Rue du Cirque house.” + </p> + <p> + There was nothing that irritated the young woman so much as this idea. + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” she said. “What a fool he made of + me; the old rascal! But never mind. I am going to pay him for + it now.” + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless when she reached her story, the third, and at the moment of + slipping the key into the keyhole, she again seemed perplexed. + </p> + <p> + “If some misfortune should happen,” she sighed. + </p> + <p> + “What are you afraid of?” + </p> + <p> + “Old Vincent has got all sorts of arms in there. He has sworn + to me that the first person who forced his way into the apartments, he + would kill him like a dog. Suppose he should fire at us?” + </p> + <p> + She was afraid, terribly afraid: she was livid, and her teeth + chattered. + </p> + <p> + “Let me go first,” suggested M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “No. Only, if you were a good fellow, you would do what I am + going to ask you. Say, will you?” + </p> + <p> + “If it can be done.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, certainly! Here is the thing. We’ll go in together; + but you must not make any noise. There is a large closet with glass + doors, from which every thing can be heard and seen that goes on in the + large room. You’ll get in there. I’ll go ahead, and draw out + old Vincent into the parlor and at the right moment, v’lan! you appear.” + </p> + <p> + It was after all, quite reasonable. + </p> + <p> + “Agreed!” said Marius. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” she said, “every thing will go on right. + The entrance of the closet with the glass doors is on the right as you go + in. Come along now, and walk easy.” + </p> + <p> + And she opened the door. + </p> + <h2> + XI + </h2> + <p> + The apartment was exactly as described by Mme. Cadelle. In the dark + and narrow ante-chamber, three doors opened,—on the left, that of + the dining-room; in the centre, that of a parlor and bedroom which + communicated; on the right, that of the closet. M. de Tregars + slipped in noiselessly through the latter, and at once recognized that + Mme. Zelie had not deceived him, and that he would see and hear every + thing that went on in the parlor. He saw the young woman walk into + it. She laid her provisions down upon the table, and called, + </p> + <p> + “Vincent!” + </p> + <p> + The former cashier of the Mutual Credit appeared at once, coming out of + the bedroom. + </p> + <p> + He was so changed, that his wife and children would have hesitated in + recognizing him. He had cut off his beard, pulled out almost the + whole of his thick eye-brows, and covered his rough and straight hair + under a brown curly wig. He wore patent-leather boots, wide + pantaloons, and one of those short jackets of rough material, and with + broad sleeves which French elegance has borrowed from English stable-boys. + He tried to appear calm, careless, and playful; but the contraction of his + lips betrayed a horrible anguish, and his look had the strange mobility of + the wild beasts’ eye, when, almost at bay, they stop for a moment, + listening to the barking of the hounds. + </p> + <p> + “I was beginning to fear that you would disappoint me,” he + said to Mme. Zelie. + </p> + <p> + “It took me some time to buy your breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + “And is that all that kept you?” + </p> + <p> + “The porter detained me too, to hand me a letter, in which I found + one for you. Here it is.” + </p> + <p> + “A letter!” exclaimed Vincent Favoral. + </p> + <p> + And, snatching it from her, he tore off the envelope. But he had + scarcely looked over it, when he crushed it in his hand, exclaiming, + </p> + <p> + “It is monstrous! It is a mean, infamous treason!” + He was interrupted by a violent ringing of the door-bell. + </p> + <p> + “Who can it be?” stammered Mme. Cadelle. + </p> + <p> + “I know who it is,” replied the former cashier. “Open, + open quick.” + </p> + <p> + She obeyed; and almost at once a woman walked into the parlor, wearing a + cheap, black woolen dress. With a sudden gesture, she threw off her + veil; and M. de Tregars recognized the Baroness de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “Leave us!” she said to Mme. Zelie, in a tone which one would + hardly dare to assume towards a bar-maid. + </p> + <p> + The other felt indignant. + </p> + <p> + “What, what!” she began. “I am in my own house + here.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave us!” repeated M. Favoral with a threatening gesture. + “Go, go!” + </p> + <p> + She went out but only to take refuge by the side of M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + “You hear how they treat me,” she said in a hoarse voice. + </p> + <p> + He made no answer. All his attention was centred upon the parlor. + The Baroness de Thaller and the former cashier were standing opposite each + other, like two adversaries about to fight a duel. + </p> + <p> + “I have just read your letter,” began Vincent Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Coldly the baroness said, “Ah!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a joke, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all.” + </p> + <p> + “You refuse to go with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Positively.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet it was all agreed upon. I have acted wholly under + your urgent, pressing advice. How many times have you repeated to me + that to live with your husband had become an intolerable torment to you! + How many times have you sworn to me that you wished to be mine alone, + begging me to procure a large sum of money, and to fly with you!” + </p> + <p> + “I was in earnest at the time. I have discovered, at the last + moment, that it would be impossible for me thus to abandon my country, my + daughter, my friends.” + </p> + <p> + “We can take Cesarine with us.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not insist.” + </p> + <p> + He was looking at her with a stupid, gloomy gaze. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” he stammered, “those tears, those prayers, those + oaths!” + </p> + <p> + “I have reflected.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not possible! If you spoke the truth, you would not be + here.” + </p> + <p> + “I am here to make you understand that we must give up projects + which cannot be realized. There are some social conventionalities + which cannot be torn up.” As if he scarcely understood what + she said, he repeated, + </p> + <p> + “Social conventionalities!” + </p> + <p> + And suddenly falling at Mme. de Thaller’s feet, his head thrown back, and + his hands clasped together, + </p> + <p> + “You lie!” he said. “Confess that you lie, and + that it is a final trial which you are imposing upon me. Or else + have you, then, never loved me? That’s impossible! I would not + believe you if you were to say so. A woman who does not love a man + cannot be to him what you have been to me: she does not give herself + up thus so joyously and so completely. Have you, then, forgotten + every thing? Is it possible that you do not remember those divine + evenings in the Rue de Cirque?—those nights, the mere thought of + which fires my brain, and consumes my blood.” + </p> + <p> + He was horrible to look at, horrible and ridiculous at the same time. + As he wished to take Mme. de Thaller’s hands, she stepped back, and he + followed her, dragging himself on his knees. + </p> + <p> + “Where could you find,” he continued, “a man to worship + you like me, with an ardent, absolute, blind, mad passion? With what + can you reproach me? Have I not sacrificed to you without a murmur + every thing that a man can sacrifice here below,—fortune, family, + honor, —to supply your extravagance, to anticipate your slightest + fancies, to give you gold to scatter by the handful? Did I not leave + my own family struggling with poverty? I would have snatched bread + from my children’s mouths in order to purchase roses to scatter under your + footsteps. And for years did ever a word from me betray the secret + of our love? What have I not endured? You deceived me. I + knew it, and I said nothing. Upon a word from you I stepped aside + before him whom your caprice made happy for a day. You told me, + ‘Steal!’ and I stole. You told me, ‘Kill!’ + and I tried to kill.” + </p> + <p> + “Fly. A man who has twelve hundred thousand francs in gold, + bank-notes, and good securities, can always get along.” + </p> + <p> + “And my wife and children?” + </p> + <p> + “Maxence is old enough to help his mother. Gilberte will find + a husband: depend upon it. Besides, what’s to prevent you from + sending them money?” + </p> + <p> + “They would refuse it.” + </p> + <p> + “You will always be a fool, my dear!” + </p> + <p> + To Vincent Favoral’s first stupor and miserable weakness now succeeded a + terrible passion. All the blood had left his face: his eyes + was flashing. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” he resumed, “all is really over?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I have been duped like the rest,—like that poor Marquis + de Tregars, whom you had made mad also. But he, at least saved his + honor; whereas I—And I have no excuse; for I should have known. + I knew that you were but the bait which the Baron de Thaller held out to + his victims.” + </p> + <p> + He waited for an answer; but she maintained a contemptuous silence. + </p> + <p> + “Then you think,” he said with a threatening laugh, “that + it will all end that way?” + </p> + <p> + “What can you do?” + </p> + <p> + “There is such a thing as justice, I imagine, and judges too. + I can give myself up, and reveal every thing.” + </p> + <p> + She shrugged her shoulders. + </p> + <p> + “That would be throwing yourself into the wolf’s mouth for nothing,” + she said. “You know better than any one else that my + precautions are well enough taken to defy any thing you can do or say. + I have nothing to fear.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you quite sure of that?” + </p> + <p> + “Trust to me,” she said with a smile of perfect security. + </p> + <p> + The former cashier of the Mutual Credit made a terrible gesture; but, + checking himself at once, he seized one of the baroness’s hands. She + withdrew it quickly, however, and, in an accent of insurmountable disgust, + </p> + <p> + “Enough, enough!” she said. + </p> + <p> + In the adjoining closet Marius de Tregars could feel Mme. Zelie Cadelle + shuddering by his side. + </p> + <p> + “What a wretch that woman is!” she murmured; “and he—what + a base coward!” + </p> + <p> + The former cashier remained prostrated, striking the floor with his head. + </p> + <p> + “And you would forsake me,” he groaned, “when we are + united by a past such as ours! How could you replace me? Where + would you find a slave so devoted to your every wish?” + </p> + <p> + The baroness was getting impatient. + </p> + <p> + “Stop!” she interrupted,—“stop these + demonstrations as useless as ridiculous.” + </p> + <p> + This time he did start up, as if lashed with a whip and, double locking + the door which communicated with the ante-chamber, he put the key in his + pocket; and, with a step as stiff and mechanical as that of an automaton, + he disappeared in the sleeping-room. + </p> + <p> + “He is going for a weapon,” whispered Mme. Cadelle. + </p> + <p> + It was also what Marius thought. + </p> + <p> + “Run down quick,” he said to Mme. Zelie. “In a cab + standing opposite No. 25, you will find Mlle. Gilberte Favoral waiting. + Let her come at once.” + </p> + <p> + And, rushing into the parlor, + </p> + <p> + “Fly!” he said to Mme. Thaller. + </p> + <p> + But she was as petrified by this apparition. + </p> + <p> + “M. de Tregars!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, me. But hurry and go!” + </p> + <p> + And he pushed her into the closet. + </p> + <p> + It was but time. Vincent Favoral reappeared upon the threshold of + the bedroom. But, if it was a weapon he had gone for, it was not for + the one which Marius and Mme. Cadelle supposed. It was a bundle of + papers which he held in his hand. Seeing M. de Tregars there, + instead of Mme. de Thaller, an exclamation of terror and surprise rose to + his lips. He understood vaguely what must have taken place; that the + man who stood there must have been concealed in the glass closet, and that + he had assisted the baroness to escape. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, the miserable wretch!” he stammered with a tongue made + thick by passion, “the infamous wretch! She has betrayed me; + she has surrendered me. I am lost!” + </p> + <p> + Mastering the most terrible emotion he had ever felt, + </p> + <p> + “No, no! you shall not be surrendered,” uttered M. de Tregars. + </p> + <p> + Collecting all the energy that the devouring passion which had blasted his + existence had left him, the former cashier of the Mutual Credit took one + or two steps forward. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, then?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Do you not know me? I am the son of that unfortunate Marquis + de Tregars of whom you spoke a moment since. I am Lucienne’s + brother.” + </p> + <p> + Like a man who has received a stunning blow, Vincent Favoral sank heavily + upon a chair. + </p> + <p> + “He knows all,” he groaned. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, all!” + </p> + <p> + “You must hate me mortally.” + </p> + <p> + “I pity you.” + </p> + <p> + The old cashier had reached that point when all the faculties, after being + strained to their utmost limits, suddenly break down, when the strongest + man gives up, and weeps like a child. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, I am the most wretched of villains!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + He had hid his face in his hands; and in one second,—as it happens, + they say, to the dying on the threshold of eternity,—he reviewed his + entire existence. + </p> + <p> + “And yet,” he said, “I had not the soul of a villain. + I wanted to get rich; but honestly, by labor, and by rigid economy. + And I should have succeeded. I had a hundred and fifty thousand + francs of my own when I met the Baron de Thaller. Alas! why did I + meet him? ‘Twas he who first gave me to understand that it was + stupid to work and save, when, at the bourse, with moderate luck, one + might become a millionaire in six months.” + </p> + <p> + He stopped, shook his head, and suddenly, + </p> + <p> + “Do you know the Baron de Thaller?” he asked. And, + without giving Marius time to answer, + </p> + <p> + “He is a German,” he went on, “a Prussian. His + father was a cab-driver in Berlin, and his mother waiting-maid in a + brewery. At the age of eighteen, he was compelled to leave his + country, owing to some petty swindle, and came to take up his residence in + Paris. He found employment in the office of a stock-broker, and was + living very poorly, when he made the acquaintance of a young laundress + named Affrays, who had for a lover a very wealthy gentleman, the Marquis + de Tregars, whose weakness was to pass himself off for a poor clerk. + Affrays and Thaller were well calculated to agree. They did agree, + and formed an association,—she contributing her beauty; he, his + genius for intrigue; both, their corruption and their vices. Soon + after they met, she gave birth to a child, a daughter; whom she intrusted + to some poor gardeners at Louveciennes, with the firm and settled + intention to leave her there forever. And yet it was upon this + daughter, whom they firmly hoped never to see again, that the two + accomplices were building their fortune. + </p> + <p> + “It was in the name of that daughter that Affrays wrung considerable + sums from the Marquis de Tregars. As soon as Thaller and she found + themselves in possession of six hundred thousand francs, they dismissed + the marquis, and got married. Already, at that time, Thaller had + taken the title of baron, and lived in some style. But his first + speculations were not successful. The revolution of 1848 finished + his ruin, and he was about being expelled from the bourse, when he found + me on his way,—I, poor fool, who was going about everywhere, asking + how I could advantageously invest my hundred and fifty thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + He was speaking in a hoarse voice, shaking his clinched fist in the air, + doubtless at the Baron de Thaller. + </p> + <p> + “Unfortunately,” he resumed, “it was only much later + that I discovered all this. At the moment, M. de Thaller dazzled me. + His friends, Saint Pavin and the bankers Jottras, proclaimed him the + smartest and the most honest man in France. Still I would not have + given my money, if it had not been for the baroness. The first time + that I was introduced to her, and that she fixed upon me her great black + eyes, I felt myself moved to the deepest recesses of my soul. In + order to see her again, I invited her, together with her husband and her + husband’s friends, to dine with me, by the side of my wife and children. + She came. Her husband made me sign every thing he pleased; but, as + she went off, she pressed my hand.” + </p> + <p> + He was still shuddering at the recollection of it, the poor fellow! + </p> + <p> + “The next day,” he went on, “I handed to Thaller all I + had in the world; and, in exchange, he gave me the position of cashier in + the Mutual Credit, which he had just founded. He treated me like an + inferior, and did not admit me to visit his family. But I didn’t + care: the baroness had permitted me to see her again, and almost + every afternoon I met her at the Tuileries; and I had made bold to tell + her that I loved her to desperation. At last, one evening, she + consented to make an appointment with me for the second following day, in + an apartment which I had rented. + </p> + <p> + “The day before I was to meet her, and whilst I was beside myself + with joy, the Baron de Thaller requested me to assist him, by means of + certain irregular entries, to conceal a deficit arising from unsuccessful + speculations. How could I refuse a man, whom, as I thought, I was + about to deceive grossly! I did as he wished. The next day + Mme. de Thaller became my mistress; and I was a lost man.” + </p> + <p> + Was he trying to exculpate himself? Was he merely yielding to that + imperious sentiment, more powerful than the will or the reason, which + impels the criminal to reveal the secret which oppresses him? + </p> + <p> + “From that day,” he went on, “began for me the torment + of that double existence which I underwent for years. I had given to + my mistress all I had in the world; and she was insatiable. She + wanted money always, any way, and in heaps. She made me buy the + house in the Rue du Cirque for our meetings; and, between the demands of + the husband and those of the wife, I was almost insane. I drew from + the funds of the Mutual Credit as from an inexhaustible mine; and, as I + foresaw that some day must come when all would be discovered, I always + carried about me a loaded revolver, with which to blow out my brains when + they came to arrest me.” + </p> + <p> + And he showed to Marius the handle of a revolver protruding from his + pocket. + </p> + <p> + “And if only she had been faithful to me!” he continued, + becoming more and more animated. “But what have I not endured! + When the Marquis de Tregars returned to Paris, and they set about + defrauding him of his fortune, she did not hesitate a moment to become his + mistress again. She used to tell me, ‘What a fool you are! all + I want is his money. I love no one but you.’ But after + his death she took others. She made use of our house in the Rue du + Cirque for purposes of dissipation for herself and her daughter Cesarine. + And I—miserable coward that I was!—I suffered all, so much did + I tremble to lose her, so much did I fear to be weaned from the semblance + of love with which she paid my fearful sacrifices. And now she would + betray me, forsake me! For every thing that has taken place was + suggested by her in order to procure a sum wherewith to fly to America. + It was she who imagined the wretched comedy which I played, so as to throw + upon myself the whole responsibility. M. de Thaller has had millions + for his share: I have only had twelve hundred thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + Violent nervous shudders shook his frame: his face became purple. + He drew himself up, and, brandishing the letters which he held in his + hand, + </p> + <p> + “But all is not over!” he exclaimed. “There are + proofs which neither the baron nor his wife know that I have. I have + the proof of the infamous swindle of which the Marquis de Tregars was the + victim. I have the proof of the farce got up by M. de Thaller and + myself to defraud the stockholders of the Mutual Credit!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you hope for?” + </p> + <p> + He was laughing a stupid laugh. + </p> + <p> + “I? I shall go and hide myself in some suburb of Paris, and + write to Affrays to come. She knows that I have twelve hundred + thousand francs. She will come; and she will keep coming as long as + I have any money. And when I have no more:—” + </p> + <p> + He stopped short, starting back, his arms outstretched as if to repel a + terrifying apparition. Mlle. Gilberte had just appeared at the door. + </p> + <p> + “My daughter!” stammered the wretch. “Gilberte!” + </p> + <p> + “The Marquise de Tregars,” uttered Marius. + </p> + <p> + An inexpressible look of terror and anguish convulsed the features of + Vincent Favoral: he guessed that it was the end. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want with me?” he stammered. + </p> + <p> + “The money that you have stolen, father,” replied the girl in + an inexorable tone of voice,—“the twelve hundred thousand + francs which you have here, then the proofs which are in your hands, and, + finally your weapons.” + </p> + <p> + He was trembling from head to foot. + </p> + <p> + “Take away my money!” he said. “Why, that would be + compelling me to give myself up! Do you wish to see me in prison?” + </p> + <p> + “The disgrace would fall back upon your children, sir,” said + M. de Tregars. “We shall, on the contrary, do every thing in + the world to enable you to evade the pursuit of the police.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, yes, then. But to-morrow I must write to Affrays: + I must see her!” + </p> + <p> + “You have lost your mind, father,” said Mlle. Gilberte. + “Come, do as I ask you.” + </p> + <p> + He drew himself up to his full height. + </p> + <p> + “And suppose I refuse?” + </p> + <p> + But it was the last effort of his will. He yielded, though not + without an agonizing struggle and gave up to his daughter the money, the + proofs and the arms. And as she was walking away, leaning on M. de + Tregars’ arm, + </p> + <p> + “But send me your mother, at least,” he begged. “She + will understand me: she will not be without pity. She is my + wife: let her come quick. I will not, I can not remain alone.” + </p> + <h2> + XII + </h2> + <p> + It was with convulsive haste that the Baroness de Thaller went over the + distance that separated the Rue St. Lazare from the Rue de la Pepiniere. + The sudden intervention of M. de Tregars had upset all her ideas. + The most sinister presentiments agitated her mind. In the courtyard + of her residence, all the servants, gathered in a group, were talking. + They did not take the trouble to stand aside to let her pass; and she even + noticed some smiles and ironical gigglings. This was a terrible blow + to her. What was the matter? What had they heard? In the + magnificent vestibule, a man was sitting as she came in. It was the + same suspicious character that Marius de Tregars had seen in the grand + parlor, in close conference with the baroness. + </p> + <p> + “Bad news,” he said with a sheepish look. + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “That little Lucienne must have her soul riveted to her body. + She is only wounded; and she’ll get over it.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind Lucienne. What about M. de Tregars?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! he is another sharp one. Instead of taking up our man’s + provocation, he collared him, and took away from him the note I had sent + him.” + </p> + <p> + Mme. de Thaller started violently. + </p> + <p> + “What is the meaning, then,” she asked, “of your letter + of last night, in which you requested me to hand two thousand francs to + the bearer?” + </p> + <p> + The man became pale as death. + </p> + <p> + “You received a letter from me,” he stammered, “last + night?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, from you; and I gave the money.” + </p> + <p> + The man struck his forehead. + </p> + <p> + “I understand it all!” he exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “What?” + </p> + <p> + “They wanted proofs. They imitated my handwriting, and you + swallowed the bait. That’s the reason why I spent the night in the + station-house; and, if they let me go this morning, it was to find out + where I’d go. I have been followed, they are shadowing me. We + are gone up, Mme. le Baronne. <i>Sauve qui peut!</i>” + </p> + <p> + And he ran out. + </p> + <p> + More agitated than ever Mme. de Thaller went up stairs. In the + little red-and-gold parlor, the Baron de Thaller and Mlle. Cesarine were + waiting for her. Stretched upon an arm-chair, her legs crossed, the + tip of her boot on a level with her eye, Mlle. Cesarine, with a look of + ironical curiosity, was watching her father, who, livid and trembling with + nervous excitement, was walking up and down, like a wild beast in his + cage. As soon as the baroness appeared, + </p> + <p> + “Things are going badly,” said her husband, “very badly. + Our game is devilishly compromised.” + </p> + <p> + “You think so?” + </p> + <p> + “I am but too sure of it. Such a well-combined stroke too! + But every thing is against us. In presence of the examining + magistrate, Jottras held out well; but Saint Pavin spoke. That dirty + rascal was not satisfied with the share allotted to him. On the + information furnished by him, Costeclar was arrested this morning. + And Costeclar knows all, since he has been your confidant, Vincent + Favoral’s, and my own. When a man has, like him, two or three + forgeries in his record, he is sure to speak. He will speak. + Perhaps he has already done so, since the police has taken possession of + Latterman’s office, with whom I had organized the panic and the tumble in + the Mutual Credit stock. What can we do to ward off this blow?” + </p> + <p> + With a surer glance than her husband, Mme. de Thaller had measured the + situation. + </p> + <p> + “Do not try to ward it off,” she replied: “It + would be useless.” + </p> + <p> + “Because?” + </p> + <p> + “Because M. de Tregars has found Vincent Favoral; because, at this + very moment, they are together, arranging their plans.” + </p> + <p> + The baron made a terrible gesture. + </p> + <p> + “Ah, thunder and lightning!” he exclaimed. “I + always told you that this stupid fool, Favoral, would cause our ruin. + It was so easy for you to find an occasion for him to blow his brains out.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it so difficult for you to accept M. de Tregars’ offers?” + </p> + <p> + “It was you who made me refuse.” + </p> + <p> + “Was it me, too, who was so anxious to get rid of Lucienne?” + </p> + <p> + For years, Mlle. Cesarine had not seemed so amused; and, in a half + whisper, she was humming the famous tune, from “The Pearl of + Poutoise,” + </p> + <p> + “Happy accord! + Happy couple!” + </p> + <p> + M. de Thaller, beside himself, was advancing to seize the baroness: + she was drawing back, knowing him, perhaps to be capable of any thing, + when suddenly there was a violent knocking at the door. + </p> + <p> + “In the name of the law!” + </p> + <p> + It was a commissary of police. + </p> + <p> + And, whilst surrounded by agents, they were taken to a cab. + </p> + <p> + * * * + </p> + <p> + “Orphan on both sides!” exclaimed Mlle. Cesarine, “I am + free, then. Now we’ll have some fun!” + </p> + <p> + At that very moment, M. de Tregars and Mlle. Gilberte reached the Rue St. + Gilles. + </p> + <p> + Hearing that her husband had been found, + </p> + <p> + “I must see him!” exclaimed Mme. Favoral. + </p> + <p> + And, in spite of any thing they could tell her, she threw a shawl over her + shoulders, and started with Mlle. Gilberte. + </p> + <p> + When they had entered Mme. Zelie’s apartment, of which they had a key, + they found in the parlor, with his back towards them, Vincent Favoral + sitting at the table, leaning forward, and apparently writing. Mme. + Favoral approached on tiptoe, and over her husband’s shoulder she read + what he had just written, + </p> + <p> + “Affrays, my beloved, eternally-adored mistress, will you forgive + me? The money that I was keeping for you, my darling, the proofs + which will crush your husband—they have taken every thing from me, + basely, by force. And it is my daughter—” + </p> + <p> + He had stopped there. Surprised at his immobility, Mme. Favoral + called, + </p> + <p> + “Vincent!” + </p> + <p> + He made no answer. She pushed him with her finger. He rolled + to the ground. He was dead. + </p> + <p> + Three months later the great Mutual Credit suit was tried before the Sixth + Court. The scandal was great; but public curiosity was strangely + disappointed. As in most of these financial affairs, justice, whilst + exposing the most audacious frauds, was not able to unravel the true + secret. + </p> + <p> + She managed, at least, to lay hands upon every thing that the Baron de + Thaller had hoped to save. That worthy was condemned to five years’ + prison; M. Costeclar got off with three years; and M. Jottras with two. + M. Saint Pavin was acquitted. + </p> + <p> + Arrested for subornation of murder, the former Marquise de Javelle the + Baroness de Thaller, was released for want of proper proof. But, + implicated in the suit against her husband, she lost three-fourths of her + fortune, and is now living with her daughter, whose début is + announced at the Bouffes-Parisiens, or at the Delassements-Comiques. + </p> + <p> + Already, before that time, Mlle. Lucienne, completely restored, had + married Maxence Favoral. + </p> + <p> + Of the five hundred thousand francs which were returned to her, she + applied three hundred thousand to discharge the debts of her + father-in-law, and with the rest she induced her husband to emigrate to + America. Paris had become odious to both. + </p> + <p> + Marius and Mlle. Gilberte, who has now become Marquise de Tregars, have + taken up their residence at the Chateau de Tregars, three leagues from + Quimper. They have been followed in their retreat by Mme. Favoral + and by General Count de Villegre. + </p> + <p> + The greater portion of his father’s fortune, Marius had applied to pay off + all the personal creditors of the former cashier of the Mutual Credit, all + the trades-people, and also M. Chapelain, old man Desormeaux, and M. and + Mme. Desclavettes. + </p> + <p> + All that is left to the Marquis and Marquise de Tregars is some twenty + thousand francs a year, and if they ever lose them, it will not be at the + bourse. + </p> + <p> + The Mutual Credit is quoted at 467.25! + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Other People’s Money, by Emile Gaboriau + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK OTHER PEOPLE’S MONEY *** + +***** This file should be named 1748-h.htm or 1748-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/1/7/4/1748/ + +Produced by An Anonymous Volunteer, and David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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