The pedant and the farmer who had opened the gate, after gazing at each other a moment intently, by the light of the lantern which the latter held up to see what manner of man his nocturnal visitor might be, and after exchanging rapidly a few words, that the others could not hear, accompanied by wild gesticulations, rushed into each other's arms, and began pounding each other heartily upon the back--mutually bestowing resounding accolades--as is the manner upon the stage of expressing joy at meeting a dear friend.

Emboldened by this cordial reception, which yet was a mystery to them, the rest of the troupe ventured to approach, though slowly and timidly.
"Halloa! all of you there," cried the pedant suddenly, in a joyful voice, "come on without fear, you will be made welcome by a friend and a brother, a world-famed member of our profession, the darling of Thespis, the favourite of Thalia, no less a personage than the celebrated Bellombre--you all know his glorious record.

Blessed is the happy chance that has directed our steps hither, to the philosophic retreat where this histrionic hero reposes tranquilly upon his laurels." "Come in, I pray you, ladies and gentlemen," said Bellombre, advancing to meet them, with a graceful courtesy which proved that the ci-devant actor had not put aside his elegant, courtly manners when he donned his peasant dress.
"Come in quickly out of this biting wind; my dwelling is rude and homely, but you will be better off within it than here in the open air." They needed no urging, and joyfully accepting his kind invitation followed their host into the house, charmed with this unhoped-for good fortune.

Blazius and Bellombre were old acquaintances, and had formerly been members Of the same troupe; as their respective roles did not clash there was no rivalry between them, and they had become fast friends--being fellow worshippers at the shrine of the merry god of wine.

Bellombre had retired from the stage some years before, when at his father's death he inherited this farm and a small fortune.