I repeat that I possess _nothing_; and, since you force me to speak before you apprize me of your own intentions, know that Grinselhof and its dependencies are mortgaged beyond their value! It is useless to inform you of the origin of these debts.

Let it suffice to repeat that I tell the truth; and I beg you, without going further, now that you are informed of the state of my affairs, to declare frankly what are your designs as to your nephew's marriage." Although this declaration was made with that feverish energy which ought to have satisfied Denecker of its truth, it nevertheless failed to convince him.

A degree of surprise displayed itself on the merchant's face; but he continued his observations in the same incredulous tone:-- "Pardon me, De Vlierbeck, but it is impossible to believe you.

I did not think you were so hard in a bargain.

Yet be it so: every man has his weakness; one is too miserly, another too prodigal.