Mercadet I will make you a good offer! (Aloud, as they start toward opposite doors) True, the idea is a bold one! But to-morrow, the 'Change will recognize in me one of its master spirits.
Verdelin
What is he talking about?
Mercadet To-morrow, all my debts will be paid, and the house of Mercadet will be turning over millions! I shall be acknowledged as the Napoleon of finance.
Verdelin
What a man he is!
Mercadet
And a Napoleon who meets no Waterloo!
Verdelin
But where are your troops?
Mercadet My army is cash in hand! What answer can be made to a business man who says, "Take your money!" Come let us dine now.
Verdelin
Certainly. I shall be delighted to dine with you.
Mercadet (while they all move towards the dining-room, aside) They are all glad of it! To-morrow I will either command millions, or rest in the damp winding-sheet of the Seine!
Curtain to the Second Act.