When his two comrades reached him, Max had fainted.

It was necessary to rouse Monsieur Goddet, the surgeon.

Max had recognized Fario; but when he came to his senses, with several persons about him, and felt that his wound was not mortal, it suddenly occurred to him to make capital out of the attack, and he said, in a faint voice,-- "I think I recognized that cursed painter!" Thereupon Lousteau-Prangin ran off to his father, the judge.

Max was carried home by Cognette, young Goddet, and two other persons.

Mere Cognette and Monsieur Goddet walked beside the stretcher.