The Novels of Balzac (Volume 25) (Paperback)

Book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1900. Excerpt: ... PART II. Corentin's Revenge. It was intended to build a new farm-house for Michu, but while this was being constructed the so-called Judas was lodged in the rooms over the stables, by the side of the famous breach. Michu bought two horses, one for himself and one for his son, for they both joined Gothard in esquiring mademoiselle in all her rides, which had, as most people may imagine, for their object the feeding of the four gentlemen and to see that they wanted for nothing. Francois and Gothard, assisted by Courant and the countess' dogs, looked out that the vicinity of the hiding-place was clear. Laurence and Michu carried the provisions which Marthe, her mother, and Catherine prepared, unknown to the rest of the household, so as to keep the secret to themselves, for they knew without any doubt that the village contained spies. From motives of prudence these expeditions were never made oftener than twice a week, and always at a different hour, sometimes by day and sometimes at night. These precautions continued even during the trials of Riviere, Polignac, and Moreau. When the Senate (sinatus-consulte) called the Bonaparte dynasty to the throne, and Napoleon's nomination as Emperor was submitted to the French people, M. d'Hauteserre gave his signature to the register brought to him by Goulard. When it was made known that the pope would anoint and crown Napoleon, Mile, de Cinq-Cygne no longer opposed a petition being sent asking that the two young d'Hauteserres and her cousins might have their names struck off the list of tmigrts and to be allowed to resume their rights as citizens of France. (167) The old man went off to Paris forthwith, and there had a consultation with the ci-devant Marquis de Chargebceuf, who was acquainted with Talleyrand. That minister, who was then in favor, ...