Flore told him the news of the town, repeating the cackle that was current, which she had carefully picked up.

Towards eight o'clock the lights were put out.

Going to bed early is a saving of fire and candles very commonly practised in the provinces, which contributes no doubt to the empty-mindedness of the inhabitants.

Too much sleep dulls and weakens the brain.
Such was the life of these two persons during a period of nine years, the great events of which were a few journeys to Bourges, Vierzon, Chateauroux, or somewhat further, if the notaries of those towns and Monsieur Heron had no investments ready for acceptance.

Rouget lent his money at five per cent on a first mortgage, with release of the wife's rights in case the owner was married.