What means can there be?
The estate is mortgaged to its full value: so they say, at least." "And they say true," put in the notary quickly.

"But do not distress yourself, madame: confide in me." "Ah, my good friend, may Heaven reward you." "Madame, up to the present time I have no complaint to make of Heaven.
I am on the rise: here, mademoiselle, is a gimcrack they have given me;" and he unbuttoned his overcoat, and showed them a piece of tricolored ribbon and a clasp.

"As for me, I look to 'the solid;' I care little for these things," said he, swelling visibly, "but the world is dazzled by them.

However, I can show you something better." He took out a letter.
"This is from the Minister of the Interior to a client of mine: a promise I shall be the next prefect; and the present prefect--I am happy to say--is on his death-bed.

Thus, madame, your humble servant in a few short months will be notary no longer, but prefect; I shall then sell my office of notary: and I flatter myself when I am a prefect you will not blush to own me." "Then, as now, monsieur," said the baroness politely, "we shall recognize your merit.