You can proceed, Constant," he added.
The tall clerk turned half round on his chair and commenced. He had
a peculiar way of jabbering over what he had scrawled. He read very
quickly, all at a stretch, without paying the least attention to either
full stops or commas, questions or replies; but went on reading as long
as his breath lasted. When he could go on no longer, he took a breath,
and then continued as before. Unconsciously, he reminded one of a diver,
who every now and then raises his head above water, obtains a supply of
air, and disappears again. Noel was the only one to listen attentively
to the reading, which to unpractised ears was unintelligible. It
apprised him of many things which it was important for him to know. At
last Constant pronounced the words, "In testimony whereof," etc., which
end all official reports in France.
He handed the pen to the count, who signed without hesitation. The old
nobleman then turned towards Noel.
"I am not very strong," he said; "you must therefore, my son,"
emphasizing the word, "help your father to his carriage."
The young advocate advanced eagerly. His face brightened, as he passed
the count's arm through his own.
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