He concluded by saying that the government agent was personally inert, and would never move a step in the matter unless driven by a creditor.
"But we have so many," said Rose in dismay.

"We are not safe a day." Aubertin assured her the danger was only in appearance.

"Your large creditors are men of property, and such men let their funds lie unless compelled to move them.

The small mortgagee, the petty miser, who has, perhaps, no investment to watch but one small loan, about which he is as anxious and as noisy as a hen with one chicken, he is the clamorous creditor, the harsh little egoist, who for fear of risking a crown piece would bring the Garden of Eden to the hammer.

Now we are rid of that little wretch, Bonard, and have Perrin on our side; so there is literally nothing to fear." The sisters thanked him warmly, and Rose shared his hopes; and said so; but Josephine was silent and thoughtful.