“One hundred thousand francs?” said Beausire.
“Yes, in gold.”
“So,” said Beausire, “the box contains——”
“100,380 francs, monsieur.”
“It is not much,” said Manoël, coldly; “but, happily, her majesty has placed funds at my disposal. I told you,” continued he, turning to Beausire, “that I thought we should need it at Paris.”
“Your excellency took wise precautions,” said Beausire, respectfully.
From the time of this important communication the hilarity of the party went on increasing. A good supper, consisting of salmon, crabs, and sweets, contributed to their satisfaction. Ducorneau, quite at his ease, ate enough for ten, and did not fail, either, in demonstrating that a Parisian could do honor to port and sherry.
CHAPTER XXVII.
MESSRS. BŒHMER AND BOSSANGE.
M. Ducorneau blessed heaven repeatedly for sending an ambassador who preferred his speaking French to Portuguese, and liked Portuguese wines better than French ones. At last, Manoël expressed a wish to go to bed; Ducorneau rose and left the room, although, it must be confessed, he found some difficulty in the operation.
It was now the turn of the valet to have supper, which he did with great good-will.