"He knows what he is about." "My mother thinks he wishes to force me into marrying his niece by getting hold of our farm," said Savinien; "as if a Portenduere, son of a Kergarouet, could be made to marry against his will." An hour later, Savinien presented himself at the doctor's house, where all the relatives had assembled, enticed by curiosity.

The arrival of the young viscount produced a lively sensation, all the more because its effect was different on each person present.

Mesdemoiselles Cremiere and Massin whispered together and looked at Ursula, who blushed.

The mothers said to Desire that Goupil was right about the marriage.

The eyes of all present turned towards the doctor, who did not rise to receive the young nobleman, but merely bowed his head without laying down the dice-box, for he was playing a game of backgammon with Monsieur Bongrand.