eloquence of figures. He knew quite enough of Paris to understand that
if Mascarin threw his net regularly, he would infallibly catch many
fish. With this conviction firmly implanted in his mind, he did not
require much urging to look with favor on the scheme, and, putting on a
gracious smile, he now asked, "And what must I do to deserve admission
into this association?"

Paul had listened in wonder and terror, but by degrees all feelings of
disgust at the criminality of these men faded away before the power that
they unquestionably possessed.

"If," resumed Mascarin, "we have up to this met with no serious
obstacles, it is because, though apparently acting rashly, we are in
reality most prudent and cautious. We have managed our slaves well, and
have not driven any one to desperation. But we are beginning to weary
of our profession; we are getting old, and we have need of repose.
We intend, therefore, to retire, but before that we wish to have
all matters securely settled. I have an immense mass of documentary
evidence, but it is not always easy to realize the value they represent,
and I wait upon your assistance to enable me to do so."

Croisenois' face fell. Was he to take compromising letters round to
his acquaintances and boldly say, "Your purse or your honor?" He had no
objection to share the profits of this ignoble trade, but he objected
strongly to showing his connection with it openly. "No, no," cried he
hastily, "you must not depend upon me."

He seemed so much in earnest that Hortebise and Catenac exchanged
glances of dismay.

"Let us have no nonsense," returned Mascarin sternly, "and wait a little
before you display so much fierceness. I told you that my documentary
evidence was of a peculiar kind. We very often had among our fish
married people who cannot deal with their personal property. A husband,
for instance, will say, 'I can't take ten thousand francs without my
wife, knowing of it.' Women say, 'Why, I get all my money through my
husband,' and both are telling the truth. They kneel at my feet and
entreat me to have mercy, saying, 'Find me some excuse for using a
portion of my funds and you shall have more than you ask.' For a long
time I have sought for this means, and at last I have found it in the
Limited Company, which you, Marquis, will float next month."

"Really!" returned the Marquis. "I do not see--"

"I beg your pardon; you see it all clearly. A husband who cannot,
without fear of dist