"From William Smith himself; the house of Meulaert is so well known, I knew so well myself the probity of Smith, that I accepted this bill in payment of a debt he owed me."
"William Smith has never existed; it is an imaginary person."
"Sir, you insult me!"
"His signature is as false as the others."
"I tell you, sir, that William Smith does exist; but I have, without doubt, been the dupe of a horrible breach of confidence."
"Poor young man!"
"Explain yourself!" cried Saint Remy, whose anxiety and humiliation were increased by this ironical pity.
"In a word, the actual holder of the bill is convinced that you have committed the forgery."
"Sir!"
"He pretends to have the proof; two days ago he came to me to beg me to send for you here, and to propose to return you this forged note, under an arrangement. So far, all was right; this is not; and I only tell you for information. He asks one hundred thousand francs. Today even, or to-morrow at noon, the forgery will be made known to the public prosecutor."