The count went to his secrétaire, opened it, and pulling out a drawer filled with gold, said to Franz, “I hope you will not offend me by applying to anyone but myself.”
“You see, on the contrary, I come to you first and instantly,” replied Franz.
“And I thank you; have what you will;” and he made a sign to Franz to take what he pleased.
“Is it absolutely necessary, then, to send the money to Luigi Vampa?” asked the young man, looking fixedly in his turn at the count.
“Judge for yourself,” replied he. “The postscript is explicit.”
“I think that if you would take the trouble of reflecting, you could find a way of simplifying the negotiation,” said Franz.
“How so?” returned the count, with surprise.
“If we were to go together to Luigi Vampa, I am sure he would not refuse you Albert’s freedom.”
“What influence can I possibly have over a bandit?”
“Have you not just rendered him a service that can never be forgotten?”