"Nonsense, Legrand. That fee is nearly half of my fortune."
"Mademoiselle's fortune," corrected Legrand.
The two men looked at each other, and understood each other well. Bruslart knew that the doctor was quite prepared to betray him if he did not come to his terms. Legrand knew that Bruslart was in dire straits, and that once in the hands of the Convention his doom was sealed. In one sense the doctor was the more honest of the two. He could do what he said with every prospect of success, and was prepared to fulfill his bargain to the letter. Bruslart was already planning how he could overreach his companion.
"It is a monstrous price to pay."
"It saves you from the guillotine," answered Legrand.
"Very well, I'll pay it," said Bruslart, after a moment's thought.
"Quickly, then. I will go at once. Give me the money."
"A bargain is a bargain, my good doctor, and I do not part with my money until you have completed your work. I shall expect you in an hour."
Legrand hesitated.
"I cannot get away," said Bruslart, "but there is a possibility that you might not return."