Besides the two men, though separated by their political convictions, had become very good friends.
"You know that the Emperor was once a policeman in London," said Boche in his turn.

"Yes, on my word! He used to take the drunken women to the station-house." Gervaise had filled three glasses on the table.

She would not drink herself, she felt too sick at heart, but she stood there longing to see what the box contained and watching Lantier remove the last cords.
Before raising the lid Lantier took his glass and clinked it with the others.
"Good health." "Same to you," replied Boche and Poisson.
The laundress filled the glasses again.

The three men wiped their lips on the backs of their hands.

And at last the hatter opened the box.