If you succeed in the task which you are about to undertake, the entire sum of money, the interest of which you receive annually, becomes your own.

Five millions of francs deserve some sacrifice.

With this sum you can become an independent woman, and your daughter will never be reproached with having been, in her childhood, a member of Cythera's Brigade." Countess Themire deliberated a few moments; then she asked: "May I not kiss my daughter farewell ?" "Leave your kiss with me, and I will deliver it faithfully!" smilingly responded the marquis.
"How can you jest at such a moment?
Suppose my absence lasts a long time ?" "That is very probable." "Am I not even to hear from my child--not even to let her know that I am living ?" "Certainly, countess; you may communicate with her through me.

Moreover, it rests with yourself how soon you will return.

Until that time it shall be my pleasure to take care of Amelie; you may rest in peace as to that!" "Yes; she could not be in worse hands than in those of her mother!" bitterly rejoined the countess.