“‘And why not?’ asked Gobseck.
“‘Why not?’ echoed I, as I drew the old man into the bay window so as to speak aside with him. ‘Why not? This woman is under her husband’s control; the agreement would be void in law; you could not possibly assert your ignorance of a fact recorded on the very face of the document itself. You would be compelled at once to produce the diamonds deposited with you, according to the weight, value, and cutting therein described.’
“Gobseck cut me short with a nod, and turned towards the guilty couple.
“‘He is right!’ he said. ‘That puts the whole thing in a different light. Eighty thousand francs down, and you leave the diamonds with me,’ he added, in the husky, flute-like voice. ‘In the way of property, possession is as good as a title.’
“‘But——’ objected the young man.
“‘You can take it or leave it,’ continued Gobseck, returning the jewel-case to the lady as he spoke.
“‘I have too many risks to run.’
“‘It would be better to throw yourself at your husband’s feet,’ I bent to whisper in her ear.
“The usurer doubtless knew what I was saying from the movement of my lips. He gave me a cool glance. The Count’s face grew livid. The Countess was visibly wavering. Maxime stepped up to her, and, low as he spoke, I could catch the words:
“‘Adieu, dear Anastasie, may you be happy! As for me, by to-morrow my troubles will be over.’