Ever since the night of the fight with the bear there had been nothing said on matters concerning the Rebellion.

If Nicolas disclosed any secret now, it must surely be about the money, and that must not be if he could prevent it.
But he watched his friend, nevertheless.
Night came, and Christine did not return; eight o'clock, nine o'clock.
Lavilette and his wife were a little anxious; but Ferrol and Nicolas made excuses for her, and, in the wild talk and gossip about the Rebellion, attention was easily shifted from her.

Besides, Christine was well used to taking care of herself.
Lavilette flatly refused to give Nic a penny for "the cause," and stormed at his connection with it; but at last became pacified, and agreed it was best that Madame Lavilette should know nothing about Nic's complicity just yet.

At half past nine o'clock Nic left the house and took the road towards the Seigneury..