One is either an actor or he is not.

This personage was always one wherever he was--in an omnibus, while putting on his suspenders, even with the one he loved.

When he said to a newcomer, "How do you do ?" he put so much feeling into this very original question, that the one questioned asked himself whether he really had not just recovered from a long and dangerous illness.

Now, at this time Jocquelet found himself in the presence of an unknown and poor young poet.

What role ought such an eminent person as himself to play in such circumstances?
To show affection for the young man, calm his timidity, and patronize him without too much haughtiness; that was the position to take, and Jocquelet acted it.
Amedee was an artless dupe, and, touched by the interest shown him, he frankly replied: "Well, my dear friend, I have worked hard this winter.