"I will present it."
"But the Society will not permit you to interfere until you have given the required guarantee. And now, good-morning, sir."
In vain did Fongereues petition the Italian to remain, but Fernando bowed coldly and departed.
Fongereues sank back in his chair, utterly crushed. For a few moments he had indulged in the hope of a proud future, and now, knowing that he could not raise a million, he felt that he was in deeper perplexity than ever.
Cyprien now appeared.
"You made a mistake, sir, in hesitating for a moment. Write to the Society that before five days have elapsed you will have fulfilled the conditions imposed."
"That would be folly!"
"Is not Fanfar in prison?"
"What of that? He will not be condemned."