"What's that you say?" said Cauvignac, pointing to the tradesman's letter which lay open on Master Rabodin's desk, with a number of other papers. "How dare you say that when you yourself furnish me with proof to the contrary?"
"Proof?"
"Damnation! read."
Rabodin read, in a trembling voice:—
"I Master Rabodin,—I send you the four thousand livres damages and costs due upon the judgment in favor of Master Biscarros, whom I strongly suspect of a purpose to make an improper use of it.'"
"An improper use!" Cauvignac repeated. "You see that your client's unsavory reputation has reached as far as this."
"Monsieur, I am overwhelmed," said the attorney.
"I cannot conceal from you, monsieur," said Cauvignac, "that my orders are strict."
"Monsieur, I swear that I am innocent."
"Pardieu! Biscarros said the same until he was put to the question; but at the fifth wedge he changed his tone."