“Ah, my good girl, I did not really know you!” cried Esther, clasping Europe in her arms.
Europe proceeded to melt into tears.
“I shall pay,” said the Baron piteously, as he drew out a pocket-book, from which he took one of the little printed forms which the Bank of France issues to bankers, on which they have only to write a sum in figures and in words to make them available as cheques to bearer.
“It is not worth the trouble, Monsieur le Baron,” said Louchard; “I have instructions not to accept payment in anything but coin of the realm—gold or silver. As it is you, I will take banknotes.”
“Der Teufel!” cried the Baron. “Well, show me your papers.”
Contenson handed him three packets covered with blue paper, which the Baron took, looking at the man, and adding in an undertone:
“It should hafe been a better day’s vork for you ven you had gife me notice.”
“Why, how should I know you were here, Monsieur le Baron?” replied the spy, heedless whether Louchard heard him. “You lost my services by withdrawing your confidence. You are done,” added this philosopher, shrugging his shoulders.
“Qvite true,” said the baron. “Ah, my chilt,” he exclaimed, seeing the bills of exchange, and turning to Esther, “you are de fictim of a torough scoundrel, ein highway tief!”
“Alas, yes,” said poor Esther; “but he loved me truly.”