is now. It is _her_ affection for Paul that we have to check, and not
_his_ for her; and the uglier a woman is, the more she clings to her
lover."

"All this is worthy of consideration," returned Mascarin; "meanwhile we
must take steps to guard ourselves from the impending danger. Have you
finished that report on Gandelu, Beaumarchef? What is his position?"

"Head over ears in debt, sir, but not harassed by his creditors because
of his future prospects."

"Surely among these creditors there are some that we could influence?"
said Mascarin. "Find this out, and report to me this evening; and
farewell for the present."

When again alone, the two confederates remained silent for some time.
The decisive moment had arrived. As yet they were not compromised; but
if they intended to carry out their plans, they must no longer remain
inactive; and both of these men had sufficient experience to know that
they must look at the position boldly, and make up their minds at once.
The pleasant smile upon the doctor's face faded away, and his fingers
played nervously with his locket. Mascarin was the first to break the
silence.

"Let us no longer hesitate," said he; "let us shut our eyes to the
danger and advance steadily. You heard the promises made by the Marquis
de Croisenois. He will do as we wish, but under certain conditions.
Mademoiselle de Mussidan must be his bride."

"That will be impossible."