“There is reason in what you say, but you do not need the sixty sequins. You will dishonour me by accepting such a poor offer, and you will do yourself harm too, as you will not be able to ask for a good salary after taking such a small one.” “But sixty sequins is not so bad for a carnival engagement.” “But you don’t want sixty sequins; you can have them without dancing at all. If you love me, I repeat, you will tell the manager that you are going to rest for a year.” “I will do what you please, but it seems to me the best plan would be to ask an exorbitant sum.” “You are right; that is a good idea. Tell him you must be first dancer, and that your salary must be five hundred sequins.” “I will do so, and am only too happy to be able to prove that I love you.” Agatha had plenty of inborn common sense, which only needed development. With that and the beauty which Heaven had given her her future was assured. She was eventually happy, and she deserved her happiness. The next day she told me that the manager did not appear at all astonished at her demands. “He reflected a few minutes,” said she, “and told me he must think it over, and would see me again. It would be amusing if he took me at my word, would it not?” “Yes, but we should then have to enquire whether he is a madman or a beggar on the verge of bankruptcy.” “And if he turns out to be a man of means?” “In that case you would be obliged to accept.” “That is easily said and easily done, but have I sufficient talent? Where shall I find an actor to dance with me?” “I will engage to find you one. As to talent, you have enough and to spare; but you will see that it will come to nothing.” All the time I felt a presentiment that she would be engaged, and I was right. The manager came to her the next day, and offered her the agreement for her signature. She was quite alarmed, and sent for me. I called at her house, and finding the manager there asked him what security he could give for the fulfilment of his part of the engagement. He answered by naming M. Martin, a banker of my acquaintance, who would be his surety. I could make no objection to this, and the agreement was made out in duplicate in good form.