After he had been engaged for some time in this disagreeable task, De Vlierbeck recommenced the conversation in a tone of cutting irony:-- "Ah! you would not believe me, sir.

Well, let your determination be founded on those papers alone.

It is right you should know every thing; for I have determined never again to be tortured.

Besides the evidences of debt which are before you, I owe a bill of exchange for four thousand francs, which I cannot pay! You see now, Monsieur Denecker, that I am worse than poor, for I have debts!" "Alas! it is but too true," said the stupefied merchant; "you have indeed nothing! I see by these documents that my notary is also yours; and, although I spoke to him of your fortune, he left me unadvised, or, I should rather say, in error." De Vlierbeck breathed more freely, for he felt as if a rock had fallen from his breast.

His face resumed its ordinary calmness; and, seating himself, he continued:-- "Now, sir, if you have no longer any reason to doubt my poverty, let me ask what are your intentions." "My intentions ?" replied the merchant; "my intentions are that we shall remain as good friends as we were before; but, as to the marriage, that of course falls to the ground.