“It is exactly the position which I have myself assumed, M. le Baron,” responded the banker, with a subdued air of confidential understanding. “In finance it is indispensable. But affairs are solid here;” and he gaily struck his hand on his pocket. “Things will move—they will go—now that M. Neckar is at the head! M. le Baron is doubtless aware that the meetings of the States-General have commenced, and are open to attendance, like the English parliament itself? Bah we are aware that in affairs nowadays, the minister is everything; to speak properly—the king, nothing! The discussions grow interesting—it was a happy stroke—to render the nation—yes, conceive, Monsieur,—responsible for its own expenses! And, after all, the world is governed by this money here!” Sir Godfrey sighed involuntarily, while the banker, slightly rubbing his hands together, bowing and smiling, still conducted him with _empressement_ towards the court in which his horse was held. “It would be easy to secure a distinguished place of audience for M. le Baron in the minister’s gallery at Versailles,” persisted Monsieur Blaise, with interest, “and for the family of M. le Baron, whom we have not yet, indeed, had the honour to see?” M. Blaise had, in fact, made sundry half-subdued advances, at various times, towards a mutual introduction of the families; which seemed latterly to become more obvious. “Thank you, Monsieur,” was the rather dry answer—“no. The fact is, we intend immediately leaving town, as soon as my eldest son arrives. And, of course, this matter as to a place of residence must be settled. I should prefer some remote, quiet, country place.”