“I have done wrong,” said he, “in questioning all these people, each of whom regards duty from a different point of view. The only man who can give me any light on the subject is the honorable magistrate, who kindly pointed out my error in living without an object.” An hour afterwards, the young man knocked at the door of M. de la Varade, who, unfortunately, was absent. A servant conducted the visitor into the magistrate’s study, and asked him to await the return of the master of the house. Eusebe had waited for something more than ten minutes, and, becoming impatient, was about to retire, when among the books on the table he observed a dictionary. “Ah!” thought he, “I was sure that here my expectations would be realized. Now I shall certainly find what I seek.” He turned over the leaves of the dictionary, and found,-- “DUTY.--_Subst._ That which conscience, reason, law, or custom demands that one should do.” Eusebe dropped the book, with an expression of bitter disappointment. “Now,” thought he, “I am more perplexed than ever; since the things which law and custom oblige one to do are directly contrary to those dictated by conscience and reason.” Eusebe was absorbed in reflection, when a young lady, with a sparkling eye, appeared at the door of the study. It was Madame de la Varade. “My husband,” said she, “told me that he would not return until late in the day. I regret that you have been kept waiting uselessly.” “And I, madame, regret having disturbed you.” “Will you oblige me with your name?” “Eusebe Martin.” The wives of magistrates generally know more about any matters of interest that are transacted at their husbands’ offices than the _procureur-général_. M. de la Varade had related to his wife the particulars of the late duel, and imparted to her the curiosity he felt in regard to the young man who possessed the love of a woman comparatively celebrated. After a protracted silence, Madame de la Varade observed,-- “If you are particularly desirous to speak to my husband, and wish to await his return----” “No, madame,” interrupted Eusebe, “I have nothing of importance to say to Monsieur de la Varade. Yesterday he was so kind as to give me some good advice. But, unfortunately, I did not entirely comprehend his meaning; and to-day I have come to beg him to define a word which he said was the religion of society.” “And what is the word?” “Duty.” Madame de la Varade burst into a laugh,--which enabled Eusebe to note that she had pearly teeth and rosy lips. “And so, monsieur, it is for this you have come all the way from Paris?” “Yes, madame.” “Well, I can satisfy you.” “I shall be very grateful for the favor, indeed, madame.” “You have, doubtless, heard of the ancient Hydra?” “But,” stammered the provincial, “I thought that was a fabulous monster.”