Sellers of linen thread were called in Flanders, "mulquiniers"; and that no doubt was the trade of the particular ancestor of the old valet who passed from a state of serfdom to one of burgher dignity, until some unknown misfortune had again reduced his present descendant to the condition of a serf, with the addition of wages.

The whole history of Flanders and its linen-trade was epitomized in this old man, often called, by way of euphony, Mulquinier.

He was not without originality, either of character or appearance.

His face was triangular in shape, broad and long, and seamed by small-pox which had left innumerable white and shining patches that gave him a fantastic appearance.

He was tall and thin; his whole demeanor solemn and mysterious; and his small eyes, yellow as the wig which was smoothly plastered on his head, cast none but oblique glances.
The old valet's outward man was in keeping with the feeling of curiosity which he everywhere inspired.