139-142.
[238] The French term which I have ventured thus freely to translate is _pot-de-vin_, and literally signifies a sum of money given to a third party who is able to ensure the success of a bargain or negotiation of whatever nature.

Thus, for example, in the granting and acceptance of a lease which has been effected by such means, the contracting parties jointly pay down the stipulated amount, irrespective of the value of the lease, for the benefit of the person through whose agency it has been concluded; while so general is the system throughout the country, even to this day, that domestic servants give a _pot-de-vin_ to the individual, to whom they are indebted for their situation, in which instance, however, the bribe or recompense is also called a _denier a Dieu_.
[239] Florent d'Argouges, Treasurer of the Queen's Household.

His son was first president of the Parliament of Brittany, and subsequently councillor of state and member of the Privy Council.
[240] Sully, _Mem_.

vol.v.pp.

144-146.
[241] Sully, _Mem_.