"Ah, true!" said the general, looking at Courtin with sovereign contempt. "I forgot, though you are a public functionary, that you are one of those who don't neglect their private interests."
"You said yourself, general, that we were the ones that were soonest forgotten."
"And you want money to take the place of public gratitude? Well, that's logical. So, then, you don't give, my worthy mayor, you sell, you traffic, you trade in human flesh; and to-day, having something to sell, you come to what you think the best market,--is that it?"
"You have said it. Oh, don't feel embarrassed, general, business is business; and I am not ashamed to attend to mine!"
"So much the better; but I'm not the man you ought to go to. They've sent down a gentleman from Paris who is specially charged to attend to this matter. When you can lay hands on your prey, you had better go to him and sell it."
"So I will, general. But," continued Courtin, "as I did you such a service that first time, don't you feel inclined to give me some reward?"
"My good fellow, if you think I owe you anything I am ready to pay it. Speak out! I'm listening."
"It will be all the easier because I don't ask much."
"Go on."
"Tell me the sum the government has promised to the man who delivers Petit-Pierre into your hands."