At first all went on smoothly, for the conversation was on the safe subjects of wind and weather; but a change for the worst was coming.
'Now, nephew, tell us something about the old people yonder. How is my brother looking?'
'Extremely well, uncle. He is looking quite fresh.'
'But the gout--the gout in his feet? that sticks to him yet--and it is not the most pleasant of companions.'
'Oh, yes--the gout! But he is accustomed to that.'
'And your mother?'
'She is also well, only she is getting older every day.'
'Ah! that is what we are all doing. And aunt Abelonè? How goes it with her?'
'She is very well too.'
'What! very well--with her broken leg! Why, you must be joking?'