On a table against the wall stood a gold vase, of coarse workmanship but worth three thousand francs, a gift from Havana, which city, at the time of the American War of Independence, he had protected from an attack by the British, bringing his convoy safe into port after an engagement with superior forces.

To recompense this service the King of Spain had made him a knight of his order; the same event gave him a right to the next promotion to the rank of vice-admiral, and he also received the red ribbing.

He then married his wife, who had a fortune of about two hundred thousand francs.

But the Revolution hindered his promotion, and Monsieur de Portenduere emigrated.
"Where is my mother ?" said Savinien to Tiennette.
"She is waiting for you in your father's room," said the old Breton woman.
Savinien could not repress a shudder.

He knew his mother's rigid principles, her worship of honor, her loyalty, her faith in nobility, and he foresaw a scene.