"No one, most assuredly. But you will decide, on reflection, that a
man who has not conducted himself _too_ badly has a right to some
consideration."

The duke seemed greatly astonished.

"Consideration!" he exclaimed. "This rascal has a right to some
consideration! Well, this is one of the poorest of jokes. What! I give
him--that is to say--you give him a hundred thousand francs, and that
will not content him! He is entitled to consideration! You, who are
after the daughter, may give it to him if you like, but I shall do as I
like!"

"Very well; but, Monsieur, I would think twice, if I were in your place.
Lacheneur has surrendered Sairmeuse. That is all very well; but how can
you authenticate your claim to the property? What would you do if, in
case you imprudently irritated him, he should change his mind? What
would become of your right to the estate?"

M. Sairmeuse actually turned green.

"Zounds!" he exclaimed. "I had not thought of that. Here, you fellows,
take all these things back again, and that quickly!"

And as they were obeying his order:

"Now," he remarked, "let us hasten to Courtornieu. They have already
sent for us twice. It must be business of the utmost importance which
demands our attention."