human
Now what was the big surprise that you just mentioned you were going to give poor Mr. Fell this afternoon?
gpt
You remember that I thought he suspected me of being the Masquer? Well, I was going to him and propose that we enter business together.
human
Oh! As bandits?
gpt
No, as oil promotors. I'm out of Maillard's company, or shall be out of it soon. The minute I'm out, I'll be free to go into business for myself. It occurred to me that if Jachin Fell had brains enough to run down the Midnight Masquer, he would be a mighty good business partner; because I'm poor on business detail. Also, I think Fell is to be trusted. The things you've told me and written me about him prove that much. He's very strong politically, I have found--although few people know it.
human
But he's not interested in oil is he?
gpt
I don't know; I take for granted that he's interested in making money. Most men are. The only way to make money in oil is to have money--and he has some! I have a little. I can put in twenty-five thousand. With an equal amount from him, we can sink a couple of wells, perhaps three. If we go broke, all right. If we find oil, we're rich!
human
But, my dear Henry, if he knew you to be the Midnight Masquer, do you think he'd want to go into business with you?
gpt
Why not? Gramont laughed.
human
If he knew that I had brains enough to pull off that stunt and keep all New Orleans up in the air--wouldn't I make a good partner? Besides, I believe that I have some notion where to go after oil; I'm going to examine your land first----
gpt
My good prince, you surely have no lack of audacity! She broke into a peal of laughter.
human
Your argument about inducing Mr. Fell to go into business with you is naïve----
gpt
But, as an argument, isn't it quite sound?
human
Possibly. Since it is Lucie Ledanois and not Jachin Fell who has brought you to a confession of your crimes against society--aren't you going to propose that she go into business with you? Doesn't the argument hold good with her?
gpt
No. Oil is no woman's game, unless she can well afford to lose. I imagine that you cannot, Lucie. Once I get my company formed, however----
human
You're right, I can't put in any money. I'm land poor. Unless I were to sell that Bayou Terrebonne land--it's an old farm, abandoned since before father died----
gpt
Don't sell it! he exclaimed, quickly.
human
Don't consider any dealings with it until I have looked it over, will you?
gpt
Since you ask it, no. If there's gas near by, there must be oil.
human
Who knows? he shrugged.
gpt
No one can predict oil.
human
Then you still mean to go to Jachin Fell with your scheme?
gpt
Yes. See here, Lucie--it's about noon! Suppose you come along and lunch with me at the Louisiane, if you've no engagement. We can put those boxes in the mail en route, and after luncheon I'll try and get hold of Fell.
human
You're sure you'll not kidnap me or anything like that? It's risky to become a friend of hardened criminals, even if one is trying to uplift them.
gpt
Good! You'll come?
human
If you can give me ten minutes----
gpt
My dear Lucie, you are the most charming object in New Orleans at this minute! Why attempt to make yourself still more attractive? Gilding the lily is an impossible task.
human
Well, wait for me. Is your car here? Good! I want to see Hammond's face when he sees us carrying out those boxes.
gpt
One thing, M. le prince! Do you solemnly promise, upon your honour, that the Midnight Masquer is dead for ever?
human
Upon my honour! said Gramont, seriously.
gpt
The farce is ended, Lucie.
human
All right. I'll be right down. Smoke if you like----