“How old is he, do you suppose?”
“That is a question which the Lord only knows how to answer.”
“Mademoiselle Faillot just now vehemently accused Catherine Barrau.”
“Oh, she would accuse her own father, were he living, rather than keep silent. You will see that in less than forty-eight hours she will have the whole town in an uproar.”
“How so?”
“She will try to establish two warring factions. That is her plan of attack, and she never fails to accomplish her purpose. I tell you she is a venomous creature.”
Andoche was right. Already in the Barraus’ yard two parties had been formed. One accused Catherine, and the other, composed of less adherents, proclaimed her innocence. Among those who were ready to defend Catherine were brave little Sidonie, Suzanne the young bride, and her stupid liege, Monsieur Eugène, who gave no little weight to the cause, and some peasants of less importance.
Discussions were heard on every hand.
The justice of the peace did not dare to take sides, but it was evident from the first that the daughter of D’Angerolles would be arrested, and compelled, if possible, to reveal the name of her accomplice.
So matters stood, when all at once an incident occurred which changed the whole aspect of affairs.