Their conversation was very trying to Julien's nerves.

Nevertheless, he endeavored to fulfil his duties as master of the house, throwing in a word now and then, so as to appear interested in their gossip, but he ate hardly a mouthful.

His features had a pinched expression, and every now and then he caught himself trying to smother a yawn.

His companions at the table could not understand a young man of twenty-eight years who drank nothing but water, scorned all enjoyment in eating, and only laughed forcedly under compulsion.

At last, disturbed by the continued taciturnity of their host, they rose from the table sooner than their wont, and prepared to take leave.