"As for me, I look to 'the solid;' I care little for
these things," said he, swelling visibly, "but the world is dazzled by
them. However, I can show you something better." He took out a letter.
"This is from the Minister of the Interior to a client of mine: a
promise I shall be the next prefect; and the present prefect--I am happy
to say--is on his death-bed. Thus, madame, your humble servant in a few
short months will be notary no longer, but prefect; I shall then sell my
office of notary: and I flatter myself when I am a prefect you will not
blush to own me."
"Then, as now, monsieur," said the baroness politely, "we shall
recognize your merit. But"--
"I understand, madame: like me you look to 'the solid.' Thus then it is;
I have money."
"Ah! all the better for you."
"I have a good deal of money. But it is dispersed in a great many small
but profitable investments: to call it in suddenly would entail some
loss. Nevertheless, if you and my young lady there have ever so little
of that friendly feeling towards me of which I have so much towards you,
all my investments shall be called in, and two-thirds of your creditors
shall be paid off at once.
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