'No, no, my son,' he answered, 'go with your mother and your brothers. These shows are admirable for pious women and for the young. But you see I am no longer very young, and they no longer greatly interest me. Those who think deeply upon politics and philosophy outgrow the satisfaction that others derive from such devout illusions. Every age has its appropriate pastimes. Go, my children. As for me, I will remain at home, read the newspaper, and pursue my studies in ancient history.'
'Cannot you think of something better than the doings of those unhappy, old heathens for one day in the week, mon ami?' asked his wife.
Little Peter looked up at her quickly. She had laid aside her knitting, and coming across the room placed her hand lightly on her husband's shoulder.
Master Lepage made a grimace, moved a little in his chair, and smiled good-humouredly at her.
'Ah! my dear, you are the best of women,' he said.
'Then why will you not oblige me?'
Lepage pressed his lips together and put up his eyebrows.
'There are points,' he said, 'on which compliance would be a mere manifestation of weakness. We will not discuss the situation. About those small matters upon which we do not, unfortunately, quite agree, it is wise to maintain silence. There are your three sons—an escort worthy of a Roman matron! Be contented, then. I remain at home.'
Susan Lepage turned away, and calling to Eliza bade her clear the table.