“Nothing,” said Jacques, as he scrutinized Edouard with more attention.
“Nothing? Then what are your means of existence?”
“Up to this time I have never asked anyone for anything.”
“However, you do not seem to be very well off.”
“I am not, that is a fact!”
“What an idea, to wear such moustaches! You don’t expect to see my wife, with those on your face, I fancy?”
“My moustaches will stay where they are; if your wife is a prude and the sight of me frightens her, never fear! she won’t see me very often!”
“You misunderstand me, that isn’t what I meant. But I must leave you; I am expected in Paris; I do not ask you to come with me now—indeed you are expecting to meet someone in this village, I believe.”
“Yes, I am expecting a comrade, a friend.”
Jacques emphasized the last word and cast a meaning glance at his brother.