In that closed, sequestered town of Plassans, where class distinction was so clearly marked in 1848, the commotion caused by political events was very slight.

Even at the present day the popular voice sounds very faintly there; the middle classes bring their prudence to bear in the matter, the nobility their mute despair, and the clergy their shrewd cunning.

Kings may usurp thrones, or republics may be established, without scarcely any stir in the town.

Plassans sleeps while Paris fights.

But though on the surface the town may appear calm and indifferent, in the depths hidden work goes on which it is curious to study.