More than once he has said of himself, "I have passed through the vilest masses of corruption." In his office in the Rue Jacob he has heard whispered conferences which were enough to bring down the roof above his head.

Of course this was the most lucrative business that passed into Catenac's hands.

The client conceals nothing from his attorney, and he belongs to him as absolutely as the sick man belongs to his physician or the penitent to his confessor.
"Well, my dear Baptiste," said he, "here I am; you summoned me, and I am obedient to the call." "Sit down," replied Mascarin gravely.
"Thanks, my friend, many thanks, a thousand thanks; but I am much hurried; indeed I have not a moment to spare.

I have matters on my hands of life and death." "But for all that," remarked Hortebise, "you can sit down for a moment.
Baptiste has something to say to you which is as important as any of your matters can be." With a frank and genial smile Catenac obeyed; but in his heart were anger and an abject feeling of alarm.
"What is it that is so important ?" asked he.
Mascarin had risen and locked the door.

When he had resumed his seat he said,-- "The facts are very simple.