Instead, therefore, of quitting the dining-room after dessert, and whistling to his dog to accompany him in his habitual promenade, the 'grand chasserot' remained seated, poured out a small glass of brandy, and slowly filled his pipe.

Surprised to see that he was remaining at home, Julien rose and began to pace the floor, wondering what could be the reason of this unexpected change.

As suspicious people are usually prone to attribute complicated motives for the most simple actions, he imagined that Claudet, becoming aware of the jealous feeling he had excited, had given up his promenade solely to mislead and avert suspicion.

This idea irritated him still more, and halting suddenly in his walk, he went up to Claudet and said, brusquely: "You are not going out, then ?" "No;" replied Claudet, "if you will permit me, I will stay and keep you company.

Shall I annoy you ?" "Not in the least; only, as you are accustomed to walk every evening, I should not wish you to inconvenience yourself on my account.