She resolved to do all in her power to like this good man.
Serge, in taking leave of Madame Desvarennes, said: "In exchange for all the happiness which you give me, I have only my life to offer; accept it, Madame, it is yours." The mistress looked at the Prince deeply; then, in a singular tone, said: "I accept it; from to-day you belong to me." Marechal took Pierre by the arm and led him outside.
"The Prince has just uttered words which remind me of Antonio saying to the Jew in 'The Merchant of Venice': 'Thy ducats in exchange for a pound of my flesh.' Madame Desvarennes loves her daughter with a more formidable love than Shylock had for his gold.

The Prince will do well to be exact in his payments of the happiness which he has promised.".