CHAPTER 13

Paris, April 24, 1894

It was a beautiful spring morning and Maurice Bunau-Varilla was enjoying the view from his new office at Le Matin. Even though he had intended to buy a larger and more successful newspaper, Le Matin was characterized by great quality and reliability. Maurice only had to find a way to increase circulation so his investment would yield greater profits.

“Excuse me, Mr. Bunau-Varilla, there are gentlemen here who need to speak to you,” said one of his assistants from the door.

So pleased by the glorious morning he was appreciating from his window, Maurice didn’t think to ask who was looking for him. “Miss Demarle, if it’s urgent, send them in!” he said, still smiling and still looking out the window.

Just then, Maurice heard several footsteps approaching his door. When he turned around to see his visitors, his smile immediately disappeared. Accompanied by Miss Demarle were two dismal figures: one was a policeman and the other was surely a lawyer. Without even a hello, the lawyer declared, “Maurice Bunau-Varilla, I’m here to represent Mr. Lemarquis. I hereby deliver this notice which states that you are required to pay the sum of seven million francs immediately or face the consequences.”

“And, why am I to pay such a sum? Of what are you accusing me?” Maurice inquired.

“You and your associates at the company Artigue, Sonderegger & Co., or A.S., as it is also known, are accused of embezzling from the Panama Canal Company. I recommend that you pay back the money soon, Mr. Bunau-Varilla, if you want to avoid prison,” the lawyer said firmly before turning and walking away.