"For a robbery committed with a discharged convict, who wanted to turn honest and work. Well, you see, the Gros-Boiteux soon got him in a string; he is such a vicious devil, the Boiteux! I am certain it was he who broke open the trunk of the two women who live in the little room on my fourth floor."
"What women?—ah, yes, two women! You was smitten by the young 'un, I remember, you old vagabond, because you thought her so nice."
"They'll not smite anybody any more, for by this time the mother must be dead, and the daughter is scarcely alive. I shall lose a fortnight's rent, and I sha'n't give a sou to pay for their burial. I've had so many losses, without talking of the little matters you entreat me to give you and your family, that my affairs are quite disarranged. I've had the luck of it this year."
"Pooh, pooh! You are always complaining, old gentleman; you who are as rich as Crœsus. But don't let me detain you."
"You're polite."
"You'll call and tell me how mother and Calabash are when you bring me my other provisions?"
"Yes, if I must."
"Ah, I'd nearly forgot; whilst you're about it, bring me a new cap, of plaid velvet, with an acorn at top; mine's regularly done for."
"Come, now, you're laughing at me."
"No, daddy, by no means; I want a plaid velvet cap. That's my wish."