“Two thousand francs!” muttered Poterne; “why, I’ve got to give eight hundred to the jeweler, who is waiting downstairs.”
“You can give him five hundred; he will be satisfied to wait for the rest.”
“But I——”
“I’ll break you into six pieces, if you argue. Come, Poterne, be decent! You know that when I am in funds, you never lack anything.”
Monsieur Poterne complied, looking as if he were about to weep. Daréna pocketed the gold and returned to Chérubin, who was admiring himself in the mirror. Jasmin came to say that breakfast was served, and the gentlemen took their seats at the table. They were hardly seated when Monsieur de Monfréville was announced.
When he saw Daréna at table with their young friend of the preceding day, Monfréville moved his head imperceptibly and said to the count:
“Here already? The deuce! you must have come quite early.”
“When I am fond of my friends, I am always in haste to see them,” replied Daréna.—”What wine is this, faithful Jasmin?”
“Beaune, monsieur,” replied the old servant, bowing.
“It is very good; but I like sauterne and chambertin at breakfast. You must have a fine cellar here?”