Having made a selection from the second-hand garments, which the uncle had intrusted to his nephew with the greatest hesitation, the two clerks bent their steps toward Place aux Chats, and entered the Hôtel du Sanglier, where they were speedily ushered into the presence of the Gascon chevalier, who was discussing the second part of his repast.
Bahuchet and Plumard bowed low to the newly made heir, like Turks before a pasha. Passedix bestowed a gracious smile upon them and pointed to two chairs.
"Be seated, young men," he said; "with your permission, I will finish my dinner."
"With our permission!—We are at monsieur le chevalier's service; and we are in no hurry—are we, Plumard?"
"Not at all," replied Plumard, who, as courtesy demanded, had removed his cap; and he passed his hand from time to time over the piece of stocking, which he still hoped to detach.
"Are you both employed in Maître Bourdinard's office?"
"Yes, monsieur le chevalier; we are the two chief clerks."
"Is it a good office?"
"Excellent; the result is that we have too much work."
"And you are not handsomely paid?"