"We should not gain our ends by such means." "I can do more," said the Count.

"Give me six months, and I will add a million to the sum I have already offered." Tantaine did not appear impressed by the magnitude of this offer.

"I think," remarked he, "that it will be better to close this interview, which, I confess, is becoming a little annoying.

You agreed to accept the conditions.

Are you still in that mind ?" The Count bowed.