Felicite could now comprehend certain words and acts of her husband, whose significance had previously escaped her; Pierre was obeying his son, and blindly following his recommendations.
When the old woman had finished reading, she was convinced.

Eugene's entire thoughts were clearly revealed to her.

He reckoned upon making his political fortune in the squabble, and repaying his parents the debt he owed them for his education, by throwing them a scrap of the prey as soon as the quarry was secured.

However small the assistance his father might render to him and to the cause, it would not be difficult to get him appointed receiver of taxes.

Nothing would be refused to one who like Eugene had steeped his hands in the most secret machinations.