They then thought it would be as well to see Mother Brigaut, and were received by the old woman with slavish deference. “No one has been near the dear young gentleman,” said she, in reply to their questions. “Last night he came down about seven o’clock, and asked where the nearest eating-house was. I directed him to Du Val’s, and he was back by eight, and by eleven I saw that he had put out his light.” “How about to-day?” “I went up stairs at nine, and he had just finished dressing. He told me to get his breakfast ready, which I did. He ate well, and I said to myself, ‘Good; the bird is getting used to its cage.’” “And then?” “Then he commenced singing like a very bird, the dear fellow. His voice is as sweet as his face; any woman would fall in love with him. I’m precious glad that my girl, Euphenice is nowhere near.” “And after that he went out?” continued Tantaine. “Did he say how long he would be away?” “Only to give his lessons. I suppose he expected that you would call.” “Very good,” remarked the old man; then, addressing Dr. Hortebise, he said, “Perhaps, sir, you are going to the Registry Office?” “Yes; I want to see Mascarin.” “He is not there; but if you want to see him on any special matter, you had better come to our young friend’s apartment, and await his arrival.” “Very well, I will do so,” answered the doctor. Hortebise was much more impressed than Paul with the skill of the hand which had imparted such a look of long occupation to the rooms. “On my word, the quiet simplicity of these rooms would induce any father to give his daughter to this young fellow.” The old man’s silence surprised him, and turning sharply round, he was struck by the gloomy look upon his features. “What is the matter?” asked Hortebise, with some anxiety. “What is troubling you?” Tantaine had thrown himself into a chair, and for a moment made no reply; then, springing to his feet, he gave the expiring embers a furious kick, and faced the doctor with folded arms. “I see much trouble before us,” said he at last. The doctor’s face grew as gloomy as that of his companion. “Is it Perpignan who interferes?” asked he. “No, Perpignan is only a fool; but he will do what I tell him.” “Then I really do not see--” “Do not see,” exclaimed Tantaine; “but luckily for us all, I am not so blind. Have you forgotten this marriage of De Croisenois? There lies the danger. All had gone so smoothly, every combination had been arranged, and every difficulty foreseen, and now----” “Well, you had made too sure, that was all; and you were unprepared for the slightest check.” “Not so, but I had made no attempt to guard against the impossible.” “Of course, there are limits to all human intelligence, but pray explain yourself.”