One day they were finally able to buy their own furniture from a second-hand dealer on Rue Belhomme.

Their hearts filled with happiness, they celebrated by walking home along the exterior Boulevards.
They had purchased a bed, a night table, a chest of drawers with a marble top, a wardrobe, a round table covered with oilcloth, and six chairs.

All were of dark mahogany.

They also bought blankets, linen, and kitchen utensils that were scarcely used.

It meant settling down and giving themselves a status in life as property owners, as persons to be respected.
For two months past they had been busy seeking some new apartments.