Mademoiselle Godeau, during this time, was not so far away as one might suppose; she had, it is true, withdrawn in obedience to her father; but, instead of going to her room, she had remained listening behind the door.  If the extravagance of Croisilles seemed incredible to her, still she found nothing to offend her in it; for love, since the world has existed, has never passed as an insult.  On the other hand, as it was not possible to doubt the despair of the young man, Mademoiselle Godeau found herself a victim, at one and the same time, to the two sentiments most dangerous to women—­compassion and curiosity.  When she saw the interview at an end, and Croisilles ready to come out, she rapidly crossed the drawing-room where she stood, not wishing to be surprised eavesdropping, and hurried towards her apartment; but she almost immediately retraced her steps.  The idea that perhaps Croisilles was really going to put an end to his life troubled her in spite of herself.  Scarcely aware of what she was doing, she walked to meet him; the drawing-room was large, and the two young people came slowly towards each other.  Croisilles was as pale as death, and Mademoiselle Godeau vainly sought words to express her feelings.  In passing beside him, she let fall on the floor a bunch of violets which she held in her hand.  He at once bent down and picked up the bouquet in order to give it back to her, but instead of taking it, she passed on without uttering a word, and entered her father’s room.  Croisilles, alone again, put the flowers in his breast, and left the house with a troubled heart, not knowing what to think of his adventure.

III

Scarcely had he taken a few steps in the street, when he saw his faithful friend Jean running towards him with a joyful face.

“What has happened?” he asked; “have you news to tell me?”

“Yes,” replied Jean; “I have to tell you that the seals have been officially broken and that you can enter your home.  All your father’s debts being paid, you remain the owner of the house.  It is true that all the money and all the jewels have been taken away; but at least the house belongs to you, and you have not lost everything.  I have been running about for an hour, not knowing what had become of you, and I hope, my dear master, that you will now be wise enough to take a reasonable course.”

“What course do you wish me to take?”

“Sell this house, sir, it is all your fortune.  It will bring you about thirty thousand francs.  With that at any rate you will not die of hunger; and what is to prevent you from buying a little stock in trade, and starting business for yourself?  You would surely prosper.”