The people that I have been to have not even the kindness to say 'No' plain and flat; they listen to all you have to say, and as soon as your back is turned they forget your existence.

The coin that passes around in this infernal town is indeed nothing but idle words, and that is all that poverty-stricken talent can expect." A silence of some duration ensued, and Paul was too much absorbed in his own thoughts to notice the look of contempt with which Rose was regarding him.

His helpless resignation to adverse circumstances appeared to have turned her to stone.
"A nice position we are in!" said she at last.

"What do you think will become of us ?" "Alas! I do not know." "Nor I.Yesterday Madame Loupins came to me and asked for the eleven francs we owe here; and told me plainly that if within three days we did not settle our account, she would turn us out; and I know enough of her to be sure that she will keep her word.

The detestable old hag would do anything for the pleasure of seeing me on the streets." "Alone and friendless in the world," muttered Paul, paying but little attention to the young girl's words, "without a creature or a relative to care for you, or to lend you a helping hand." "We have not a copper in the world," continued Rose with cruel persistency; "I have sold everything that I had, to preserve the rags that I am wearing.