We walked here from Neuilly, but my papers and the clothes which Mere-Grand sent me will come in a cab by-and-by....

Ah! how pleased I am to find everything in order here, and to be able to take up my task with you again! Ah! I shall polish off some work now, and no mistake!" He had already gone to his own corner, the space reserved for him between the window and the forge.

He there had a chemical furnace, several glass cases and shelves crowded with appliances, and a long table, one end of which he used for writing purposes.

And he once more took possession of that little world.

After glancing around with delight at seeing everything in its place, he began to handle one object and another, eager to be at work like his sons.
All at once, however, Mere-Grand appeared, calm, grave and erect in her black gown, at the top of the little staircase which conducted to the bedrooms.