He experienced something of
that terrible grief which breaks a father's heart when he begins to
realize that his dearly loved son is perhaps the worst of scoundrels.
And, yet, such was his confidence in Noel that he again struggled with
his reason to resist the suspicions which tormented him. Perhaps the
usurer had been slandering his friend. People who lend their money
at more than ten per cent are capable of anything. Evidently he had
exaggerated the extent of Noel's follies.
And, supposing it were true? Have not many men done just such insane
things for women, without ceasing to be honest?
As he was about to enter his house, a whirlwind of silk, lace, and
velvet, stopped the way. A pretty young brunette came out and jumped as
lightly as a bird into the blue brougham.
Old Tabaret was a gallant man, and the young woman was most charming,
but he never even looked at her. He passed in, and found his concierge
standing, cap in hand, and tenderly examining a twenty franc piece.
"Ah, sir," said the man, "such a pretty young person, and so lady-like!
If you had only been here five minutes sooner."
"What lady? why?"
"That elegant lady, who just went out, sir; she came to make some
inquiries about M.
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