CHAPTER V.A FRUITLESS SEARCH.
January 1, 1885.
The first of January! When one is not yet an uncle and no longer a godson, if one is in no government employ and goes out very little, the number of one's calls on New Year's Day is limited.

I shall make five or six this afternoon.

It will be "Not at home" in each case; and that will be all my compliments of the season.
No, I am wrong.

I have received the compliments of the season.

My porter's wife came up just now, wreathed in smiles.
"Monsieur Mouillard, I wish you a Happy New Year, good health, and Heaven to end your days." She had just said the same to the tenants on the first, second, and third floors.