"Oh, you are referring to her not coming down to dinner?"
"Yes, I cannot imagine what is the reason for it all, but there is more besides. Young Duval's conduct has been so peculiar. Of course I have no right to criticise your guest, but I am rather uneasy in my mind. It seems to me that there is some mystery or some plot on foot. I have no proof of anything definite, but I confess that I do not like the present state of affairs."
"Tut, tut, my dear Riche, something has evidently upset your digestion. All you want is a good dinner, and then you will regard the world through less jaundiced spectacles. I saw Renée myself about an hour ago, and she was as happy as possible."
"My dear Villebois," replied Riche, "we are both clear-headed professional men, and we know that when the thermometer rises to 40 C. our patient is in danger, and so we at once set to work to discover the seat of the mischief."
"Quite so, my dear Riche."
"Now, please, just come along with me and have a talk with your daughter."
So saying, Riche placed his arm in that of his friend, and together they strolled out on to the verandah where they found Céleste patiently waiting for the return of Riche.
"Oh, papa, I am so glad that you are here, come and sit down and do tell me what has come over Renée."
"My dear child, there is nothing the matter with your sister that I know of," said Villebois with surprise. "Why do you ask?"