“You have been here since nine o’clock this morning, haven’t you?” said Corentin to Violette.
“No, beg your pardon, since last night I haven’t left the place, and I’ve gained nothing after all; the more he makes me drink the more he puts up the price.”
“In all markets he who raises his elbow raises a price,” said Corentin.
A dozen empty bottles ranged along the table proved the truth of the old woman’s words. Just then the gendarme who had driven him made a sign to Corentin, who went to the door to speak to him.
“There is no horse in the stable,” said the man.
“You sent your boy on horseback to the chateau, didn’t you?” said Corentin, returning to the kitchen. “Will he be back soon?”
“No, monsieur,” said Michu, “he went on foot.”
“What have you done with your horse, then?”
“I have lent him,” said Michu, curtly.
“Come out here, my good fellow,” said Corentin; “I’ve a word for your ear.”