The thunderclouds were gathering in the sky, people were laughing in the fields; all felt the heat and knew the storm was coming, but they held up their heads and continued on their way.

Monsieur Conyncks was the first to leave the room, conducted by Balthazar to his chamber.
During the latter's absence Pierquin and Monsieur de Solis went away.
Marguerite bade the notary good-night with much affection; she said nothing to Emmanuel, but she pressed his hand and gave him a tearful glance.

She sent Felicie away, and when Claes returned to the parlor he found his daughter alone.
"My kind father," she said in a trembling voice, "nothing could have made me leave home but the serious position in which we found ourselves; but now, after much anxiety, after surmounting the greatest difficulties, I return with some chances of deliverance for all of us.
Thanks to your name, and to my uncle's influence, and to the support of Monsieur de Solis, we have obtained for you an appointment under government as receiver of customs in Bretagne; the place is worth, they say, eighteen to twenty thousand francs a year.

Our uncle has given bonds as your security.

Here is the nomination," she added, drawing a paper from her bag.