In truth the old man's death had all the attraction of a problem.
But the doctor himself did not know he was ill; he had his illusions, and neither poor Ursula nor Savinien nor Bongrand nor the abbe were willing to enlighten him as to his condition.

The Nemours doctor who came to see him every day did not venture to prescribe.

Old Minoret felt no pain; his lamp of life was gently going it.

His mind continued firm and clear and powerful.

In old men thus constituted the soul governs the body, and gives it strength to die erect.