"Well, if it is not to-day," said the notary, with a diplomatic air,
"then never. We are afraid that the affair may get wind. I am much
urged by two of my wealthiest clients, who want a share in this
speculation. There it is, to take or leave. This morning I shall draw
the deeds. You have till one o'clock to make up your mind. Adieu; I am
just on my way to read over the rough draft which Xandrot has been
making out during the night."

"Well, my mind is made up. I pass my word," said Birotteau, running
after the notary and seizing his hand. "Take the hundred thousand
francs which were laid by for my daughter's portion."

"Very good," said Roguin, leaving him.

For a moment, as Birotteau turned to rejoin little Popinot, he felt a
fierce heat in his entrails, the muscles of his stomach contracted,
his ears buzzed.

"What is the matter, monsieur?" asked the clerk, when he saw his
master's pale face.

"Ah, my lad! I have just with one word decided on a great undertaking;
no man is master of himself at such a moment. You are a party to it.
In fact, I brought you here that we might talk of it at our ease; no
one can overhear us. Your aunt is in trouble; how did she lose her
money? Tell me."

"Monsieur, my uncle and aunt put all their property into the hands of
Monsieur de Nucingen, and they were forced to accept as security