While the butler was signing the document under Duval's directions it suddenly struck Payot that this was rather sharp practice on Duval's part. But it was too late to interfere now, as the General had neatly folded up the paper and put it inside his portfolio. "My dearest friend," said Duval, "I see you were a little surprised at my summoning the butler, but it was a mere habit of mine, my dear sir, a mere habit. As an officer I become so accustomed to ringing the bell and issuing orders, that it becomes part of my nature," and he reached out his hand to Payot with the most bewitching smile that he could command on the spur of the moment. "With our two families united by marriage, my dear comrade, we shall be able to carry out some magnificent projects." "I admit the combination will be very advantageous to our interests, considering the hostile cliques we have to contend with on every side. I am a little, just a little bit afraid that that fellow Delapine may prove an obstacle to our schemes," Duval rejoined with a broad grin which displayed a magnificent set of false teeth. "I confess, my dear General, I share your views. His impudence, his brazen effrontery, and most of all the extraordinary power he seems to exercise over other people's minds, will not render my task an easy one." "Oh, you leave him to me," said Duval. "My knowledge of strategy will enable me to outmanoeuvre him at every turn. It will be mere child's play to me." "I suppose that Renée will consent to marry Pierre?" added Duval after a slight pause. "My dear General, how can you ask such a question? Why, Renée adores Pierre--she can't help it. No girl could withstand his attractions, especially when she knows how he worships her. How could any girl be insensible to his charms with his wealth and his talents? Don't you worry yourself on that score." "But suppose that she loves Delapine?" "Oh, oh! you are too funny, mon Général. What an absurd idea! What on earth can Renée find to admire in a mad fossil like Delapine? Besides, he is as poor as a church mouse; he has nothing in the world beyond his pittance from the Government--a mere fifteen thousand francs a year. Why, it would hardly keep me in wines and cigars. I give my little girl credit for more sense than that. Besides, supposing she did commit the folly of refusing your son, when I come to put the situation before her, her natural common-sense would soon bring her round to my way of thinking. A little well-timed severity, a few threats on my side followed by a burst of tears on hers, and then she will surrender unconditionally."