"So, then, you would rather be an idler, a scamp, a vagabond,—eh?" said he, in a stern voice; "and then, perhaps, a thief?"
"No, brother; but I should like to live with you elsewhere, as we live here, that's all."
"Yes, that's it; eat, drink, sleep, and amuse yourself with fishing, like an independent gentleman,—eh?"
"Yes, I should like it."
"Very likely; but you must prefer something else. You see, my poor dear lad, that it is quite time I took you away from here; for, without perceiving it, you have become as idle as the rest. My mother was right,—I fear you have vice in you. And you, Amandine, shouldn't you like to learn some business?"
"Oh, yes, brother; I should like very much to learn anything rather than stay here. I should dearly like to go with you and François."
"But what have you got on your head, my child?" inquired Martial, observing Amandine's very fine head-dress.
"A handkerchief that Nicholas gave me."
"And he gave me one, too," said François, with an air of pride.
"And where did these handkerchiefs come from? I should be very much surprised to learn that Nicholas bought them to make you a present of."