But there, if you can, let us hear what man it is who disturbs the home of the philosopher.

It is not my Fille, that's sure." He could not resist teasing, this judge who had a mind of the most rare uprightness; and he was not always sorry when his teasing hurt; for, to his mind, men should be lashed into strength, when they drooped over the tasks of life; and what so sharp a lash as ridicule or satire! "Proceed, my friend," he urged brusquely, not waiting for the gasp of pained surprise of the little Clerk to end.

He was glad to see the figure beside him presently straighten itself, as though to be braced for a task of difficulty.

Indignation and resentment were good things to stiffen a man's back.
"It was three days ago," said M.Fille.

"I saw it with my own eyes.
I had come to the Manor Cartier by the road, down the hill--Mont Violet--behind the house.