"What! he hasn't the right to do it?"
"No, no, no! I know he hasn't; I know what I am saying."
My mother made a sign to Madame Darcourt which I intercepted.
"Oh! you needn't wink like that," I said, "he has no right to do it."
"Well, but he has the right to prosecute you and to fine you."
"Ah! yes, that is true," I said; with a second sigh much heavier than the first.
"And who is to pay the fine then?"
"Alas, alas, dear mother, I know too well you must: but do not be anxious; I swear on my word of honour I will repay you the fifty francs when I earn any money!"
My mother could not keep from laughing.
"Ah, you are laughing!" I exclaimed, "so there is no more fear of a fine than of prison!"