In the time Aimé had spoken, Théodore had moved back to his chair and sat down, gesturing Aimé to settle himself. "I understand that £500 is a lot to ask for, Monsuier, especially of a family who have only recently escaped the Commitee of Public Safety and the hands of the Citizens' Army themselves. I quite understand." He assured, letting Aimé calm slightly before he continued. "But I can accept nothing less than the whole sum, you see. I do not doubt your honour, Monsuier Laurent, but my costs are only fair and calculated. £300 would hardly have covered my expenses in entering, and escaping from, General Jaillet's town house."