“And if he refuse?”
Cayrol shook his head menacingly, and exclaimed:
“I defy him! If he resist, I will bring him before the assizes!”
“You?” said Madame Desvarennes, going nearer to Cayrol.
“Yes, I!” answered the banker, with energy.
“Wretched man! And my daughter?” cried the mistress. “Think well what you are saying! You would disgrace me and mine.”
“Am I not dishonored myself?” asked Cayrol. “Your son-in-law is a robber, who has defiled my home and robbed my safe.”
“An honest man does not seek to revenge himself after the manner you suggest,” said the mistress, gravely.
“An honest man defends himself as he can. I am not a knight. I am only a financier. Money is my weapon. The Prince has stolen from me. I will have him sentenced as a thief.”
Madame Desvarennes frowned.