These ideas and recollections were of considerable assistance in restoring Valorsay’s composure. “Enough said, then,” he answered, lightly. “I accept with pleasure. But——”
“Ah! so there is a but!”
“There is always one. I must warn you that it will be difficult for me to repay this loan in less than two months.”
This, then, was the time he thought necessary for the accomplishment of his designs.
“That does not matter,” replied Pascal, “and even if you desire a longer delay.” “That will be unnecessary, thank you! But there is one thing more.”
“What is that?”
“What will this negotiation cost me?”
Pascal had expected this question, and he had prepared a reply which was in perfect keeping with the spirit of the role he had assumed. “I shall charge you the ordinary rates,” he answered, “six per cent. interest, plus one-and-a-half per cent. commission.”
“Bah!”
“Plus the remuneration for my trouble and services.”