his hands and was patting it softly between his own.

"Not a very 'convenient' mother-in-law, for instance," he went on, good-
naturedly; "but you are so charming! Only you could have, coaxed Madame
Desvarennes, and you have succeeded. Oh! she likes you, my dear Prince;
she told me so only a little while ago. You have won her heart. I don't
know how you manage it, but you are irresistible! By the way, I was not
there when the marriage contract was read, and I, forgot to ask Cayrol.
Under what conditions art you married?"

The Prince looked at Herzog with a look that was hardly friendly. But
the financier appeared so indifferent, that Serge could not help
answering him:

"My wife's fortune is settled on herself."

"Ah! ah! that is usual in Normandy!" replied Herzog with a grave look.
"I was told Madame Desvarennes was a clever woman and she has proved it.
And you signed the contract with your eyes shut, my dear Prince. It is
perfect, just as a gentleman should do!"

He said this with a good-natured air. Then, suddenly lifting his eyes,
and with an ironical smile playing on his lips, he added:

"You are bowled out, my dear fellow, don't you know?"

"Sir!" protested Serge with haughtiness.

"Don't cry out; it is too late, and would be useless," replied the
financier. "Let me explain your position to you. Your hands are tied.