'What is the matter with them to-day?' he wondered. 'Could it be me that they were jeering at? But I never heard my name mentioned. Something out of the common must have happened.'
He then took off his hat and examined it, imagining that perhaps some street lad had thrown a handful of mud at it. It was all right, however, and there was nothing fastened on to his coat-tails. This examination soothed him a little, and he resumed his sedate walk through the silent lane, and quietly turned on to the Cours Sauvaire.
The usual groups of friends were sitting on the benches there.
'Hallo! here's Mouret!' cried the retired captain, with an expression of great astonishment.
The liveliest curiosity became manifest on the sleepy faces of the others. They stretched out their necks without rising from their seats, while Mouret stood in front of them. They examined him minutely from head to foot.
'Ah! you are taking a little stroll?' said the captain, who seemed the boldest.
'Yes, just a short stroll,' replied Mouret, in a listless fashion. 'It's a very fine day.'
The company exchanged meaning smiles. They were feeling chilly and the sky had just become overcast.
'Very fine,' said a retired tanner; 'you are easily pleased. It is true, however, that you are already wearing winter clothes. What a funny overcoat that is of yours!'
The smiles now grew into grins and titters. A sudden idea seemed to strike Mouret.