However, Monsieur Gallard, bending toward Sandrier, the solicitor who had bid for him, whispered something in his ear.

The struggle began between Gibert and Sandrier.

The bids rose to 2,500,000 francs.

Monsieur Gallard hesitated for a moment--decided--continued up to 3,000,000.

Then he stopped and the whole went to Gibert.