So you are going to start a home of your own?"
"I did not say so."
"That's right. Be discreet. But I can take a hint. One word more. Beware
of the storm; your little woman has a suspicion of the truth. You are
right; it wouldn't do to be seeking money now. The slightest inquiry
would be sufficient to enlighten your father-in-law as to your financial
position, and you would lose the damsel. Marry and settle down. But get
rid of Juliette, or I won't give five francs for the fortune. So it is
settled: prepare a new bill for twenty-four thousand francs, and I will
call for it when I bring you the old ones on Monday."
"You haven't them with you, then?"
"No. And to be frank, I confess that, knowing well I should get nothing
from you, I left them with others at my lawyer's. However, you may rest
easy: you have my word."
M. Clergeot made a pretence of retiring; but just as he was going out,
he returned quickly.
"I had almost forgotten," said he; "while you are about it, you can make
the bill for twenty-six thousand francs. Your little woman ordered some
dresses, which I shall deliver to-morrow; in this way they will be paid
for.
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