A very large sum wanted, Monsieur le Marquis, and not to be had easily." "Nevertheless," said Alain, quietly, "I should imagine that there must be many capitalists in Paris willing to invest in good securities at fair interest." "You are mistaken, Marquis; very few such capitalists.

Men worth money nowadays like quick returns and large profits, thanks to the magnificent system of 'Credit Mobilier,' in which, as you are aware, a man may place his money in any trade or speculation without liabilities beyond his share.

Capitalists are nearly all traders or speculators." "Then," said the Marquis, half rising, "I am to presume, sir, that you are not likely to assist me." "No, I don't say that, Marquis.

I will look with care into the matter.
Doubtless you have with you an abstract of the necessary documents, the conditions of the present mortgages, the rental of the estate, its probable prospects, and so forth." "Sir, I have such an abstract with me at Paris; and having gone into it myself with M.Hebert, I can pledge you my word that it is strictly faithful to the facts." The Marquis said this with naive simplicity, as if his word were quite sufficient to set that part of the question at rest.

M.Gandrin smiled politely and said, "'Eh bien,' M.le Marquis: favour me with the abstract; in a week's time you shall have my opinion.