"And where does the baron propose to bury all these talents? In the Upper Chamber, which is already filled to overflowing with members of the aristocracy. What will be the result? Why, in spite of his talents, this unfortunate baron will be completely swallowed up in this overwhelming majority. He will necessarily, too, be regarded as a mere dummy or tool, as he will owe his political position to party favour, and his energetic plainness of speech as well as the—the—pray give me the word, baron—the ardour of his impassioned oratory will be hampered by personal obligations."
"But why do you tell me all this at this late day, monsieur?" exclaimed the baron, in tones of heartfelt reproach.
But the marquis, without giving any sign of having heard the baron's question, continued:
"How different it would be if this unfortunate baron began his political career in the Chamber of Deputies! He would not enter that body by favour, but by a public election—by the will of the people. Under these circumstances, how forcible the words of this energetic and faithful representative of the traditions of the past would become! It could not be said of him: 'Your opinion is that of the favoured class to which you belong.' Far from it, for the baron could reply, and justly: 'No, my views are the views of the nation, as it is the nation that sent me here.'"
"What you say is true, perfectly true, monsieur, but why did you defer telling me so long?"
"Why, baron? Why, because you manifested such a deep distrust and such an intense antipathy to me."
"On the contrary, it was you, marquis, who seemed to pursue me with relentless cruelty."
"Very possibly, for I was continually saying to myself: 'Ah, if the baron is so blind as to neglect the opportunity to play such a magnificent rôle, he shall bear the penalty of it. I will give him no peace.' Nor have I; but when the time came to prevent you from committing such a fatal blunder—I did it."
"But marquis, permit me to say—"
"You do not belong to yourself, monsieur, you belong to your party, and the injury you do yourself will reflect upon the other members of your party. You are consequently an egotist, a heartless—"