Raoul
But have I any right to ask this? Could I live without you?
Vautrin Silence, you had nothing, I made you rich. You knew nothing, I have given you a good education. Oh! I have not yet done all for you. A father—all fathers give their life to their children, and as for me, happiness is a debt which I owe you. But is this really the cause of your gloom? There are here—in this casket (he points to a casket) a portrait, and certain letters. Often while reading the letters you sign as if—
Raoul
Then you know all—?
Vautrin
I know all.—Are you not touched to the heart?
Raoul
To the heart.
Vautrin O fool! Love lives by treachery, friendship by confidence.—And you —you must seek happiness in your own way.
Raoul But have I the power? I will become a soldier, and—wherever the cannot oars, I will win a glorious name, or die.
Vautrin
Indeed! Why should you? You talk nonsense.
Raoul You are too old to possess the power of understanding me, and it is no use trying to explain.
Vautrin Well, I will explain to you. You are in love with Inez de Christoval, Princesse d'Arjos in her own right, daughter of a duke banished by King Ferdinand—an Andalusian who loves you and pleases me, not as a woman, but as a ravishing money-box, whose eyes are the finest in the world, whose dowry is captivating, and who is the most delightful piece of cash, graceful and elegant as some black corvette with white sails which convoys the long-expected galleons of America, and yields all the joys of life, exactly like the Fortune which is painted over the entrance of the lottery agencies. I approve of you here. You did wrong to fall in love, love will involve you in a thousand follies —but I understand.