“—that by a paltry forfeit of five thousand francs, as stated in Article 14,” interrupted Theodose, “you can put me, when you choose, out of doors. No, I thank you! After my experience to-day, I want some better security than that.”
At this moment Cerizet with a lively and all-conquering air, entered the room.
“My masters!” he exclaimed, “I’ve brought the money; and we can now sign the bond.”
Then, remarking that his news was received with extreme coldness, he added:—
“Well? what is it?”
“It is this,” replied Thuillier: “I refuse to be associated with double-face men and calumniators. We have no need of you or your money; and I request you not to honor these precincts any longer with your presence.”
“Dear! dear! dear!” said Cerizet; “so papa Thuillier has let the wool be pulled over his eyes again!”
“Leave the room!” said Thuillier; “you have nothing more to do here.”
“Hey, my boy!” said Cerizet, turning to la Peyrade, “so you’ve twisted the old bourgeois round your finger again? Well, well, no matter! I think you are making a mistake not to go and see du Portail, and I shall tell him—”
“Leave this house!” cried Thuillier, in a threatening tone.