“I have important business.”
“I transact his business for him, Madame.”
“You are a tailor.”
“I learned that; I am learning to be a notary.”
“My business is private.”
“I transact his private business too—that which his wife cannot do. Would you prefer his wife to me? It must be either the one or the other.”
The woman started towards the door in a rage. He stepped between. “You cannot see the Notary.”
“I’ll see his wife, then—”
“That would only put the fat in the fire. His wife would not listen to you. She is quick-tempered, and she fancies she has reasons for not liking you.”
“She’s a fool. I haven’t been always particular, but as for Narcisse Dauphin—”