A woman who wants money, my dear Princess, is very, very clever, and not too honest." "Your experiences, Count," the Princess said, "may be interesting, but I do not see how they concern me." "But they might concern you," the Count said, "if I were to speak plainly; if, for instance, I were to double that little amount we spoke of." "Do you mean to insinuate," the Princess remarked, "that I know where Jeanne is now?
That it is I who have put her out of the way for a little time, in order to make a better bargain with you ?" The Count bowed his head.
"A very clever scheme," he declared, "a very clever scheme indeed." The Princess drew a little breath.

Then she looked at the Count and suddenly laughed.

After all, it was not worth while to be angry with such a creature.

Besides, if Jeanne should turn up, she might as well have the extra money.
"You give me credit, I fear," she said, "for being a cleverer woman than I am, but as a matter of curiosity, supposing I am able to hand you over Jeanne very shortly, would you agree to double the little amount we have spoken of ?" "I will double it," the Count declared solemnly.

"You see when I wish for a thing I am generous.