"Well, what is there to prevent you?"
His functions would be confined to writing a report every year for the shareholders. He would find himself day after day in communication with the most notable men in Paris. Representing the company with the workmen, he would ere long be worshipped by them as a natural consequence, and by this means he would be able, later, to push him into the General Council, and into the position of a deputy.
Frederick's ears tingled. Whence came this goodwill? He got confused in returning thanks. But it was not necessary, the banker said, that he should be dependent on anyone. The best course was to take some shares, "a splendid investment besides, for your capital guarantees your position, as your position does your capital."
"About how much should it amount to?" said Frederick.
"Oh, well! whatever you please—from forty to sixty thousand francs, I suppose."
This sum was so trifling in M. Dambreuse's eyes, and his authority was so great, that the young man resolved immediately to sell a farm.
He accepted the offer. M. Dambreuse was to select one of his disengaged days for an appointment in order to finish their arrangements.
"So I can say to Jacques Arnoux——?"
"Anything you like—the poor chap—anything you like!"
Frederick wrote to the Arnouxs' to make their minds easy, and he despatched the letter by a man-servant, who brought back the letter: "All right!" His action in the matter deserved better recognition. He expected a visit, or, at least, a letter. He did not receive a visit, and no letter arrived.