Besides, by this delay, I shall
accustom myself to my abrupt change of fortune. I ought not to bring
into your world, which is now mine, the manners of a parvenu. My name
ought not to inconvenience me, like a badly fitting coat."
"Perhaps it would be wisest," murmured the count.
This assent, so easily obtained, surprised Noel. He got the idea that
the count had only wished to prove him, to tempt him. In any case,
whether he had triumphed by his eloquence, or whether he had simply
shunned a trap, he had succeeded. His confidence increased; he recovered
all his former assurance.
"I must add, sir," he continued, "that there are a few matters
concerning myself which demand my attention. Before entering upon my new
life, I must think of those I am leaving behind me. I have friends and
clients. This event has surprised me, just as I am beginning to reap the
reward of ten years of hard work and perseverance. I have as yet only
sown; I am on the point of reaping. My name is already known; I have
obtained some little influence. I confess, without shame, that I have
heretofore professed ideas and opinions that would not be suited to this
house; and it is impossible in the space of a day--"
"Ah!" interrupted the count in a bantering tone, "you are a liberal.
Pages:
358
359
360
361
362
363
364
365
366
367
368
369
370
371
372
373
374
375
376
377
378
379
380
381
382