“But, suddenly, my father appeared to be worried; he retreated a few steps, stared at his family gathered around the old shell opener, and quickly came toward us. He seemed very pale, with a peculiar look. In a low voice he said to my mother:
“'It's extraordinary how that man opening the oysters looks like Jules.'
“Astonished, my mother asked:
“'What Jules?'
“My father continued:
“'Why, my brother. If I did not know that he was well off in America, I should think it was he.'
“Bewildered, my mother stammered:
“'You are crazy! As long as you know that it is not he, why do you say such foolish things?'
“But my father insisted:
“'Go on over and see, Clarisse! I would rather have you see with your own eyes.'