A person so imposing as M.Batifol was not calculated to give him assurance.

Amedee was timid, too, like his father, and while the child, frightened by the resemblance of the sphere to M.Batifol's bald head, was already trembling, M.Violette, much agitated, was trying to think of something to say, consequently, he said nothing of any account.

However, he ended by repeating almost the same things he had said to Mamma Gerard: "My son is nearly seven years old, and very backward, etc." The teacher appeared to listen to M.Violette with benevolent interest, inclining his geographical cranium every few seconds.

In reality, he was observing and judging his visitors.

The father's scanty overcoat, the rather pale face of the little boy, all betokened poverty.