Mademoiselle Angelique sent this piece of gold as earnest-money to
prove that she wants your counsel and advice in an important
matter."
Fanchon untied the corner of her handkerchief, and took from it
a broad shining louis d'or. She placed it in the hand of La
Corriveau, whose long fingers clutched it like the talons of a
harpy. Of all the evil passions of this woman, the greed for money
was the most ravenous.
"It is long since I got a piece of gold like that to cross my hand
with, Fanchon!" said she, looking at it admiringly and spitting on
it for good luck.
"There are plenty more where it came from, aunt," replied Fanchon.
"Mademoiselle could fill your apron with gold every day of the week
if she would: she is to marry the Intendant!"
"Marry the Intendant! ah, indeed! that is why she sends for me so
urgently! I see! Marry the Intendant! She will bestow a pot of
gold on La Corriveau to accomplish that match!"
"Maybe she would, aunt; I would, myself. But it is not that she
wishes to consult you about just now. She lost her jewels at the
ball, and wants your help to find them.
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