“And what will you pay me for that, citizen First Consul?” asked Cadoudal, laughing.
“One hundred thousand francs a year,” replied Bonaparte.
“If you would give a hundred thousand francs to one poor rebel leader,” said Cadoudal, “what would you give to the prince for whom he fought?”
“Nothing, sir. I pay you for your courage, not for the principle for which you fought. I prove to you that I, man of my own works, judge men solely by theirs. Accept, Georges, I beg of you.”
“And suppose I refuse?”
“You will do wrong.”
“Will I still be free to depart when I please?”
Bonaparte went to the door and opened it.
“The aide-de-camp on duty,” he said.
He waited, expecting to see Rapp. Roland appeared.