Suddenly a wild-looking woman darted toward him and threw her arms around his neck, exclaiming:
"At last I have found you, my son, my son!"
Ben struggled to release himself, assisted by Francois, who did not scruple to use considerable force.
"None of your tricks, madam!" he cried, angrily.
"Will you take from me my boy?" she exclaimed, piteously.
"There is some mistake. I am not your son," said Ben.
The woman shook her head sadly.
"He disowns his poor mother," she said, mournfully.
On the whole, Ben was rather glad to return to his chamber.