It was my grandfather’s opinion that uncle Amédée was much too fond of amusement, although very brave and intelligent. In saying this, however, he hastened to add:
“Campaign life impairs the most rigid private virtue.”
“As it impaired yours,” said grandmother.
And Blondeau ended the conversation by saying:
“Peace be with those who are no more!”
One day when we were not expecting him, my father arrived, looking very happy, and said to grandmother before me:
“Will you give me Juliette? I wish to take her on a long journey.”
“From Chauny to Blérancourt?”
“No, no, much farther.”
“Where, dear Jean Louis?”