In Spain and Italy the barber is often the one brilliant man in his town; his shop is the place where gossip circulates, and where many a pretty intrigue is contrived.
Men of culture are often the friends of barbers.

Buffon trusted to his barber for all the news of Montbard.

Moliere spent many long and pleasant hours with the barber of Pezenas.

Figaro, the famous barber of Seville, was one of the most perfect prototypes of his trade.

Jasmin was of the same calling as Gil Bias, inspired with the same spirit, and full of the same talent.