"I will give you a hundred francs," he replied, "but do not squander
it."
She did not know what to say, amazed and confused. At length she
faltered: "But--I--handed you the money to----"
He did not give her time to finish.
"Yes, of course. Whether it is in my pocket or yours makes no
difference from the moment that we have the same purse. I do not
refuse you, do I, since I am giving you a hundred francs?"
She took the five gold pieces without saying a word, but she did not
venture to ask for any more, and she bought nothing but the pistol.
Eight days later they set out for the "Poplars."
[CHAPTER VI]
DISENCHANTMENT
The family and servants were awaiting them outside the white gate with
brick supports. The post-chaise drew up and there were long and
affectionate greetings. Little mother wept; Jeanne, affected, wiped
away some tears; father nervously walked up and down.
Then, as the baggage was being unloaded, they told of their travels
beside the parlor fire. Jeanne's words flowed freely, and everything
was told, everything, in a half hour, except, perhaps, a few little
details forgotten in this rapid account.