“I have nothing more to do here,” he said, politely. “Permit me to retire, after having thanked you for your offer, whose kindness I appreciate.”
“Well,” cried the prince, “since you will not risk your fate, let me do it for you. This money may be a fetich. Take off five louis, only five louis, and confide them to me. I will play them according to my combinations, which are certain, and this evening I will give you your part of the proceeds. Where are you staying? I live at the Villa des Palmes.”
“Nowhere; I have just arrived.”
“Then let us meet here this evening at ten o’clock, in this room, and we will liquidate our association.”
His first impulse was to refuse. Of what use to give alms to this old monkey? But, after all, it did not cost much to pay his witness five louis, and he gave them to him.
“A thousand thanks! This evening, at ten o’clock.”
As Saniel left the room he found himself face to face with his old comrade Duphot, who was accompanied by a woman, the same whom he had cured.
“What! you here?” both the lover and his mistress exclaimed.
Saniel related why he was at Monaco, and what he had done since his arrival.
“With my money! Ah! She is very well,” Duphot cried.