“There is no need,” she replied. “From the books he has always read, we know what he thinks of men’s minds and ways: and from what happens, we learn his purposes; for my father always fulfils his purposes.”
“And who led you to study his books, and observe his purposes?”
“My brother Isaac.”
“One of those who is studying at Paris? Does he make you study here, while he is being educated there?”
“No; he does not make me study. But I know what he is doing—I have books—Isaac and I were always companions— He learns from me what my father does— But I was going to tell you, when you began asking about my father, that this plain will not appear to you throughout so, flourishing as it does now, from the road. When we reach the Étoile estate, you will see enough of the ravages of war.”
“I have perceived some signs of desertion in a house or two that we have passed,” said Azua. “But these brothers of yours—when will they return?”
“Indeed I wish I knew,” sighed Aimée. “I believe that depends on the First Consul.”
“The First Consul has so much to do, it is a pity their return should depend upon his memory. If he should forgot, you will go and see Paris, and bring your brothers home.”
“The First Consul forgets nothing,” replied Aimée. “He knows and heeds all that we do here, at the distance of almost half the world. He never forgets my brothers: he is very kind to them.”
“All that you say is true,” said Vincent, who was now on the other side of Aimée. “Everything that you can say in praise of the First Consul is true. But yet you should go and see Paris. You do not know what Paris is—you do not know what your brothers are like in Paris—especially Isaac. He tells you, no doubt, how happy he is there?”