"Strict? say fierce, _mon ami_. There is some motive we do not comprehend underlying it all. From the bottom of my heart I believe he is acquainted with his nephew's whereabouts, and would force him to return voluntarily. But what have I done that I should be made a cat's-paw?" "Without doubt it is Monsieur's well-known honourable character which influenced his choice." M. Deshoulieres made a gesture of impatience. "Honourable character? Bah! The man knows nothing of my character or my honour either. I wish I could honestly say he was not in his proper senses. When I think of what has been done, it seems to me that he is a madman and I am a fool; but I suppose the world will pronounce him a fool and me--a knave. Stop, I know what you are going to say; nevertheless, you will discover that I am right. If there was any good to be gained by this ridiculous trust, one might endure it with philosophy. As it is, I foresee nothing but annoyance, trouble, and gossip." "Monsieur alarmed with the prospect of gossip? I have always understood that he despised it," said the notary, with a scarcely perceptible sneer. "That depends. The thing may sting although it is contemptible." "Mademoiselle Veuillot will require a home," said M. Roulleau, after another pause. "There is no time to spend over new perplexities," answered M. Deshoulieres, impatiently, jumping up and pushing back his chair. "I must return. Come with me, Roulleau: there is just the possibility of his having arrived at a more Christian state of mind, and agreeing to an alteration." "He must die, I presume?" remarked the notary. "Die? Yes. No one but he could live through the night, but he will no doubt do so--out of contrariety," added the doctor, under his breath.