"Very willingly, M. Olivier," replied Mlle. de Beaumesnil.
"So, monsieur," continued the young man, laughing, "it is agreed that Mlle. Ernestine and I each turn our entire property into one common fund,—everything, from my one epaulette to her embroidery needle,—a complete mutual renunciation, as it were."
"There will be only burdens to share," muttered the commander, with a sigh. "Ah, I never before longed to be rich as I do to-day!"
"It is decided, then, that the clause stipulating for a community of property shall remain; so I will proceed," said the notary.
"'The parties aforesaid marry under the community of property régime, and, consequently, agree to share, hold, and enjoy in common all property, real or personal, of any value whatsoever, of which they may now or at any future time be possessed, in their own right, or by inheritance.'"
"By inheritance! Poor things! My cross and my old sword are all they have to expect from me, M. Gerald," whispered the veteran.
"Oh, nonsense, commander," replied Gerald, gaily. "Who knows but you may die a millionaire?"
But as the old officer, not sharing this hope, shook his head, the notary, turning to Ernestine and Olivier, asked:
"This provision is perfectly satisfactory to you, mademoiselle, and to you, monsieur?"
"Whatever is satisfactory to M. Olivier is satisfactory to me," replied Mlle. de Beaumesnil.