Luckily most of the leases were run out.

He prepared a new rent roll, and showed it Aubertin, now his fast friend.

Aubertin at his request obtained a list of the mortgages, and Edouard drew a balance-sheet founded on sure data, and proved to the baroness that in able hands the said estate was now solvent.
This was a great comfort to the old lady: and she said to Aubertin, "Heaven has sent us a champion, a little republican--with the face of an angel." Descending to practice, Edouard actually put three of the farms into the market, and let them at an advance of twenty per cent on the expired leases.

He brought these leases signed; and the baroness had scarcely done thanking him, when her other secret friend, Monsieur Perrin, was announced.

Edouard exchanged civilities with him, and then retired to the Pleasaunce.