We
must work with all our energy in that direction. Trust in me."
"I'll follow your instructions faithfully," Rougon replied. "Only don't
forget what I asked you as the price of my cooperation."
"If we succeed your demands shall be satisfied, I give you my word.
Moreover, I will write to you and guide you according to the direction
which events may take. Mind, no panic or excitement. You must obey me
implicitly."
"What have you been plotting there?" Felicite asked inquisitively.
"My dear mother," Eugene replied with a smile, "you have had too
little faith in me thitherto to induce me to confide in you my hopes,
particularly as at present they are only based on probabilities. To
be able to understand me you would require faith. However, father will
inform you when the right time comes."
Then, as Felicite assumed the demeanour of a woman who feels somewhat
piqued, he added in her ear, as he kissed her once more: "I take after
you, although you disowned me. Too much intelligence would be dangerous
at the present moment. When the crisis comes, it is you who will have to
manage the business."
He then quitted the room, but, suddenly re-opening the door, exclaimed
in an imperious tone: "Above all things, do not trust Aristide; he is a
mar-all, who would spoil everything. I have studied him sufficiently to
feel certain that he will always fall on his feet. Don't have any
pity; if we make a fortune, he'll know well enough how to rob us of his
share.
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