"He will think," she said, "that I schemed to induce him to make this sacrifice, and that idea is abhorrent to me. No, I will accept only half of that sum. I much prefer to retain his esteem and my influence in behalf of the poor Thierrys. Go and tell him that I want but twenty thousand francs and a renewal of your aunt's lease."
"But my aunt is most anxious to move," Marcel replied. "Remember that a sum of considerable importance to her is involved."
"In that case give no more attention to her affairs in my name, but take special care of my dignity, which I place in your hands."
This reply, being duly transmitted to Monsieur Antoine, caused an explosion which astonished Marcel.
"So she declines my services," cried the rich man, "for I did intend to do her a service, knowing her embarr
