Violette
What was?
Mercadet Imagine, my dear fellow, that there exists a most brilliant opportunity, a most magnificent speculation, the most sublime discovery—an affair which appeals to the interest of every one, which will draw upon all the exchanges, and for the realization of which a stupid banker has refused me the miserable sum of a thousand crowns— when there is more than a million in sight.
Violette
A million!
Mercadet Yes, a million, from the start. Afterwards no one can calculate where the rage for protective pavement will stop.
Violette
Pavement?
Mercadet
Protective pavement. A pavement on which no barricade can be raised.
Violette
Really?
Mercadet You see, that from henceforth all governments interested in the preservation of order will become our chief shareholders—Ministers, princes and kings will be our chief partners. Next come the gods of finance, the great bankers, those of independent income in commerce and speculation; even the socialists, seeing that their industry is ruined, will be forced to buy stocks for a living from me!
Violette
Yes, it is fine! It is grand!
Mercadet It is sublime and philanthropic! And to think I have been refused four thousand francs, wherewith to send out advertisements and launch my prospectus!