"That proves, monsieur, that you still believe in Count Larinski; that it is to him you speak at this moment?""You deceive yourself.I came to see Samuel Brohl, who is a business-man, and it is a commercial transaction that I intend to hold with him." And drawing from his pocket a porte-monnaie, he added: "You see I do not come empty-handed."Samuel settled himself in his arm-chair.Half closing his eyes, he watched M.Langis through his eye-lashes.A change passed over his features; his nose became more crooked, and his chin more pointed; he no longer resembled a lion, he was a fox.His lips wore the sugared smile of a usurer, one who lays snares for the sons of wealthy families, and who scents out every favourable case.If at this moment Jeremiah Brohl had seen him from the other world, he would have recognised his own flesh and blood.
He said at last to Camille: "You are a man of understanding, monsieur;I am ready to listen to you."
"I am very glad of it, and, to speak frankly, I had no doubts about it.I knew you to be very intelligent, very much disposed to make the best of an unpleasant conjuncture.""Ah! spare my modesty.I thank you for your excellent opinion of me; Ishould warn you that I am accused of being greedy after gain.You will leave some of the feathers from your wings between my fingers."For a reply M.Langis significantly patted the porte-monnaie which he held in his hand, and which was literally stuffed with bank-notes.
Immediately Samuel took from a locked drawer a casket, and proceeded to open it.
"This is a very precious gem," he said."The medallion is gold, and the work on the miniature is exquisite.It is a master-piece--the colour equals the design.The mouth is marvellously rendered.Mengs or Liotard could not have done better.At what do you value this work of art?""You are more of a connoisseur than I.I will leave it to your own valuation.""I will let you have the trinket for five thousand francs; it is almost nothing."Camille began to draw out the five thousand francs from his porte-monnaie."How prompt you are!" remarked Samuel."The portrait has not only a value as a work of art; I am sure you attach a sentimental value to it, for I suspect you of being head and ears in love with the original.""I find you too greedy," replied Camille, casting on him a crushing glance.
"Do not be angry.I am accustomed to exercise methodical precision in business affairs.My father always sold at a fixed price, and I, too, never lower my charges.You will readily understand that what is worth five thousand francs to a friend is worth double to a lover.This gem is worth ten thousand francs.You can take it or leave it.""I will take it," replied M.Langis.
"Since we agree," continued Samuel, "I possess still other articles which might suit you.""Why, do you think of selling me your clothing?""Let us come to an understanding.I have other articles of the same lot."And he brought from a closet the red hood, which he spread out on the table.
