And he rang.
At these words, Marie remembered the silver plate carried to the city and sold in the absence and without the knowledge of her husband. Had she been alone with Jacques, she would have endured his threats and injuries and anger, but when she thought of the transports of rage he would yield to before her son and David, she was frightened at the possible consequences of such a scene, and with reason.
Jacques Bastien went on talking:
"Have you had a good fire made in Bridou's chamber? I wrote to you that he would spend several days here."
"I thought you would share your chamber with M. Bridou," replied Madame Bastien. "Unless you do, I do not see how I can lodge the gentleman."
"What! there is a chamber up-stairs."
"But that is occupied by my son's preceptor."
"You are very fine, you are, with your preceptor. Ah, well, 'tis easy to take him by the shoulders and put him out, your Latin spitter, and there's the room."
"I should be distressed to put him out," said the bailiff. "I would prefer to go back."
"Come, come, Bridou, evidently we are going to quarrel," replied Jacques.