You have lived here fifteen months, and before that you resided in the Rue Jacob.

The portress knows no more; but if you will come with me to the Rue Jacob, the people there can tell you more about your life when you were a lodger in the house.

Perhaps, if you are careful, we may take you back to your more childish days, and even find you a father." "But," said Paul, "I might be questioned regarding my past life: what then?
M.Rigal or Mademoiselle Flavia might interrogate me at any moment ?" "I see; but do not disquiet yourself.

You will be furnished with all necessary papers, so that you can account for all your life during the twenty-five years you spent in this world." "Then I presume that the person into whose shoes I have crept was a composer and a musician like myself ?" Again Tantaine's patience gave way, and it was with an oath that he exclaimed,-- "Are you acting the part of a fool, or are you one in reality?
No one has ever been here except you.

Did you not hear what the old woman said?
She told you that you are a musician, a self-made one, and while waiting until your talents are appreciated, you give lessons in music." "And to whom do I _give_ them ?" Tantaine took three visiting cards from a china ornament on the mantelshelf.
"Here are three pupils of yours," said he, "who can pay you one hundred francs per month for two lessons a week, and two of them will assure you that you have taught them for some time.