“Ah!” exclaimed Lupin, in an access of mirth, “you are certainly an Englishman. You treat this as a matter of business.”
“It is a matter of business.”
“Well? what is your offer?”
“The liberty of Mademoiselle Destange.”
“Her liberty?... I didn’t know she was under arrest.”
“I will give Monsieur Ganimard the necessary information. When deprived of your protection, she can readily be taken.”
Lupin laughed again, and said:
“My dear monsieur, you are offering me something you do not possess. Mademoiselle Destange is in a place of safety, and has nothing to fear. You must make me another offer.”
The Englishman hesitated, visibly embarrassed and vexed. Then, placing his hand on the shoulder of his adversary, he said:
“And if I should propose to you—”