Lacheneur perceived it, and it was with every appearance of sincerity
and good faith that he resumed:
"Does what _I say_ surprise you? I understand why. My anger at first
made me give utterance to all sorts of absurd threats. But I am calm
now, and I realize my injustice. What could I expect the duke to do? To
make me a present of Sairmeuse? He was a trifle brusque, I confess, but
that is his way; at heart he is the best of men."
"Have you seen him again?"
"No; but I have seen his son. I have even been with him to the chateau
to designate the articles which I desire to keep. Oh! he refused me
nothing. Everything was placed at my disposal--everything. I selected
what I wished--furniture, clothing, linen. It is all to be brought here;
and I shall be quite a _grand seigneur_."
"Why not seek another house? This----"
"This pleases me, Monsieur. Its situation suits me perfectly."
In fact, why should not the Sairmeuse have regretted their odious
conduct? Was it impossible that Lacheneur, in spite of his indignation,
should conclude to accept honorable separation? Such were M.
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