He.—First, because you already know a good deal of it, and I saw that there was more to gain than to lose, by confessing the rest.
I.—How so, if you please?
He.—It is important in some lines of business to reach sublimity; it is especially so in evil. People spit upon a small rogue, but they cannot refuse a kind of consideration to a great criminal; his courage amazes you, his atrocity makes you shudder. In all things, what people prize is unity of character.
I.—But this estimable unity of character you have not quite got: I find you from time to time vacillating in your principles; it is uncertain whether you get your wickedness from nature or study, and whether study has brought you as far as possible.
He.—I agree with you, but I have done my best. Have I not had the modesty to recognise persons more perfect in my own line than myself. Have I not spoken to you of Bouret with the deepest admiration? Bouret is the first person in the world for me.
I.—But after Bouret you come.
He.—No.
I.—Palissot, then?
He.—Palissot, but not Palissot alone.
I.—And who is worthy to share the second rank with him?