“You agree?” asked Gigonnet.
Des Lupeaulx nodded his head.
“Well, then, sign this power of attorney. Within two days Baudoyer is to be nominated; within six your debts will be cleared off, and—”
“And what?” asked des Lupeaulx.
“We guarantee—”
“Guarantee!—what?” said the secretary, more and more astonished.
“Your election to the Chamber,” said Gigonnet, rising on his heels. “We have secured a majority of fifty-two farmers’ and mechanics’ votes, which will be thrown precisely as those who lend you this money dictate.”
Des Lupeaulx wrung Gigonnet’s hand.
“It is only such as we who never misunderstand each other,” he said; “this is what I call doing business. I’ll make you a return gift.”
“Right,” said Gobseck.