They were also continually mentioning the filthy state in which the Poissons had found the premises, saying that it had cost thirty francs for the cleaning alone.
After much deliberation, Virginie had decided to open a shop specializing in candies, chocolate, coffee and tea.

Lantier had advised this, saying there was much money to be made from such delicacies.

The shop was stylishly painted black with yellow stripes.

Three carpenters worked for eight days on the interior, putting up shelves, display cases and counters.

Poisson's small inheritance must have been almost completely used, but Virginie was ecstatic.