But listen! I am glad you have spoken of
this; you can render me a service.
"Very willingly. What is it?"
"I have, locked up in my secretary, twelve or fifteen thousand francs,
which trouble me exceedingly. You see, I am old, and not very brave, if
any one heard I had this money--"
"I fear I cannot--" commenced the advocate.
"Nonsense!" said the old fellow. "To-morrow I will give them to you
to take care of." But remembering he was about to put himself at M.
Daburon's disposal, and that perhaps he might not be free on the morrow,
he quickly added, "No, not to-morrow; but this very evening. This
infernal money shall not remain another night in my keeping."
He hurried out, and presently reappeared, holding in his hand fifteen
notes of a thousand francs each. "If that is not sufficient," said he,
handing them to Noel, "you can have more."
"Anyhow," replied the advocate, "I will give you a receipt for these."
"Oh! never mind. Time enough to-morrow."
"And if I die to-night?"
"Then," said the old fellow to himself, thinking of his will, "I shall
still be your debtor. Good-night!" added he aloud. "You have asked my
advice, I shall require the night for reflection.
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