The brother and sister were not a little astonished at the old gentleman's unusual communicativeness.
"It is a splendid book," exclaimed Louise--"charming as to style, and remarkably liberal and considerate towards the worshippers of Christ."
"So I have everywhere been told," said Mr. Conrad.
"Have you read the book, Louise?"
"Not less than four times, three times in French and once in German."
"Do you think a farmer whose moments are precious as gold could forgive himself the reading of Renan's book in view of the multitude of his urgent occupations?" asked he, smiling.
"The reading of a book that originates a new intellectual era is also a serious occupation," maintained the beautiful lady.
"Very true; yet I apprehend Renan's attempt to disprove to me the divinity of Christ would remain unsuccessful, and it would only cause me the loss of some hours of valuable time."
"Read it, Mr. Gerlach, do read it. Renan's arguments are unanswerable."
"So you have been convinced, Louise?"