The water-carriers departed, and Cherami went down to his landlady.
"Have you a man's hat to loan me for this morning and to-morrow?" he asked her.
"A man's hat? What do you want it for?"
"Don't be alarmed; I don't propose to make an omelet in it, as the prestidigitators do; I want it for someone to wear."
"Yes, I have a hat that belonged to Louchard, which I am keeping to give my godson when he grows up."
"Do me the favor to loan it to me; I will take the best of care of it."
"I trust you will."
Madame Louchard left the room, and soon returned with a felt hat in reasonably good condition.
"Look; I call that rather fine, myself!"
"The devil! it's gray."