On the other hand, Mademoiselle Brazier triumphed openly over the heirs by taking Agathe to drive in the caleche, sitting beside her on the back seat, while Monsieur Rouget and his nephew occupied the front.

Mother and son impatiently awaited an answer to the confidential letter they had written to Desroches.

The day before the night on which the dogs were to be poisoned, Joseph, who was nearly bored to death in Issoudun, received two letters: the first from the great painter Schinner,--whose age allowed him a closer intimacy than Joseph could have with Gros, their master,--and the second from Desroches.
Here is the first, postmarked Beaumont-sur-Oise:-- My dear Joseph,--I have just finished the principal panel-paintings at the chateau de Presles for the Comte de Serizy.
I have left all the mouldings and the decorative painting; and I have recommended you so strongly to the count, and also to Gridot the architect, that you have nothing to do but pick up your brushes and come at once.

Prices are arranged to please you.

I am off to Italy with my wife; so you can have Mistigris to help you along.