These events made Theodose a prophet in the eyes of Brigitte and Thuillier, to whom the house was now about to be definitely sold for seventy-five thousand francs.

The notary, involved in the political disaster, and whose practice was already sold, concealed himself for a time in the country; but he took with him the ten thousand francs for Claparon.

Advised by Theodose, Thuillier made a contract with Grindot, who supposed he was really working for the notary in finishing the house; and as, during this period of financial depression, suspended work left many workmen with their arms folded, the architect was able to finish off the building in a splendid manner at a low cost.

Theodose insisted that the agreement should be in writing.
This purchase increased Thuillier's importance ten-fold.

As for the notary, he had temporarily lost his head in presence of political events which came upon him like a waterspout out of cloudless skies.