"This is magnificent!" thought Robineau; "it’s after the style of Versailles and Saint-Germain!—Gilt fillets over the doors! mouldings everywhere! beautiful mirrors!—To be sure, there are some cracks in the wall here and there, and a few holes in the floor; but I’ll have all those things repaired. I will have workmen here to-morrow."
Robineau saw a cord hanging over the mantel; he pulled it, a bell rang in the distance, and François appeared.
"Did monsieur ring?" he asked.
"Faith, yes, I rang without meaning to.—But no matter; where are the gentlemen, François?"
"They did like monsieur, they lay down; but I think they’re awake."
"François, we must have complete beds for to-night; it would not be decent to sleep at La Roche-Noire without sheets.—Send for dealers and buy some; I appoint you my factotum, my steward."
"Very good, monsieur."
"By the way, I should be glad to inspect my servants. How many are there here besides yourself?"
"The concierge and the gardener, monsieur, that’s all."
"That is not enough; I must have a good-sized staff of servants. But no matter, tell my people to come to me; I will give them my orders."