"Why, because that would be so much gained for me."
"Impossible!" pursued M. Dubois, laughing; "You must take your part in it."
"Then, since it must be so," said he, with a sigh, "what is the question?"
"Here are the facts in a few words. You know that affairs are becoming more and more serious, and that the Spaniards, who, it was hoped, were conquered, have resumed a vigorous offensive, and have gained some important successes for some time past."
"I! I know nothing at all, I assure you."
"But how do you pass your time, then?"
"I have told you—I walk; I admire the works of God—which, between ourselves, I find much superior to those of men—and I am happy."
"You are a philosopher."
"I do not know."
"In a word, here is the matter in question. The Government, frightened, with reason, at the progress of the Spaniards, wish to put an end to it by uniting against them all the forces of which they can dispose."