Seeing that I could do nothing with him, unless, indeed, I sent him to some place far removed from Paris under his proper name, I told him to take comfort as I would try and do the best I could for both of us.
"And now tell me—and take care to tell the truth—what sort of feelings does Viar's daughter entertain for you?"
"I think, papa, that this is a case in which the reserve commended by yourself, as well as by mother, would be appropriate."
"Yes, that sort of answer tells me a good deal, but I think you are rather too knowing for your age. And you may as well observe that when you are called upon for a confession, reserve is out of place, and it's a confession I require from you."
"Well, papa, Viar's daughter is very fond of me, and she shews her love in all sorts of ways."
"And do you love her?"
"Oh, yes!"
"Is she much with you in the morning?"
"She is with me the whole day."
"She is present when you go to bed?"