Yet a marriage is a thing to which there are always two parties, and it is just that each should bring something into the common stock." "Oh, God! oh, God!" muttered the poor gentleman, as he clenched his hands convulsively.
"I propose to give my nephew one hundred thousand francs," continued Denecker; "and if he wants to continue in business my credit will be worth as much more to him.

I have no wish that Lenora's portion shall equal his.

Your high birth, and especially your character, will make up what is wanting in her fortune; but what say you to the half,--fifty thousand francs?
You will consent to that, or I am much mistaken.

What say you?
Is it a bargain ?" Pale and trembling, De Vlierbeck sat riveted to his chair; but at last, in a low, melancholy voice,-- "Monsieur Denecker," said he, "this conversation kills me.

I beg you to stop this infliction.