urbing his domestic peace, put in five thousand
francs, can put in ten thousand if he tells his wife, 'It is an
investment;' and many a wife who has not any money of her own will
persuade her husband to bring in the money we require by the proposal to
take shares. Now, what do you say to the idea?"

"I think that it is an excellent one, but what part am I to play in it?"

"In taking the part of Chairman of the Company. I could not do so, being
merely the proprietor of a Servant's Registry Office. Hortebise, as a
doctor, and more than all a homeopath, would inspire no confidence, and
Catenac's legal profession prevents him appearing in the matter openly.
He will act as our legal adviser."

"But really I do not see anything about me that would induce people to
invest," remarked De Croisenois.

"You are too modest; you have your name and rank, which, however we may
look upon them, have a great effect upon the general public. There are
many Companies who pay directors of rank and credible connection very
largely. Before starting this enterprise you can settle all your debts,
and the world will then conclude that you are possessed of great wealth,
while, at the same time, the news of your approaching marriage with
Mademoiselle du Mussidan will be the general talk of society. What
better position could you be in?"

"But I have the reputation of being a reckless spendthrift."

"All the better. The day the prospectus comes out with your name at the
head of it, there will be a universal burst of laughter. Men will say,
'Do you see what Croisenois is at now? What on earth possessed him to go
into Company work?' But as this proceeding on your part will have paid
your debts and given you Mademoiselle Sabine's dowry, I think that the
laugh will be on your side."

The prospect dazzled Des Croisenois.

"And suppose I accept," asked he, "what will be the end of the farce?"

"Very simple. When all the shares are taken up, you will close the
office and let the Company look after itself."

Croisenois started to his feet angrily. "Why," cried he, "you intend
to make a catspaw of me! Such a proceeding would send me to penal
servitude."

"What an ungrateful man he is!" said Mascarin, appealing to his
audience, "when I am doing all I can to prevent his going there."

"Sir!"

But Catenac now felt it time to interfere. "You do not understand,"
remarked he, addressing Croisenois. "You will start a Company for the
development of s