However, I thought better of it; I recollected we were in session, and that was why I said, 'Go on.'" A deep silence followed.

The pause became so embarrassing for the whole company that Max broke it by exclaiming:-- "I'll go on for him," (sensation) "-- for all of you," (amazement) "-- and tell you what you are thinking" (profound sensation).

"You think that Flore, the Rabouilleuse, La Brazier, the housekeeper of Pere Rouget,--for they call him so, that old bachelor, who can never have any children!--you think, I say, that that woman supplies all my wants ever since I came back to Issoudun.

If I am able to throw three hundred francs a month to the dogs, and treat you to suppers,--as I do to-night,--and lend money to all of you, you think I get the gold out of Mademoiselle Flore Brazier's purse?
Well, yes" (profound sensation).
"Yes, ten thousand times yes! Yes, Mademoiselle Brazier is aiming straight for the old man's property." "She gets it from father to son," observed Goddet, in his corner.
"You think," continued Max, smiling at Goddet's speech, "that I intend to marry Flore when Pere Rouget dies, and so this sister and her son, of whom I hear to-night for the first time, will endanger my future ?" "That's just it," cried Francois.
"That is what every one thinks who is sitting round this table," said Baruch.
"Well, don't be uneasy, friends," answered Max.

"Forewarned is forearmed! Now then, I address the Knights of Idleness.