Chapter 3 Summary

In Chapter 3, Florent enters the world of Les Halles as a kind of civil servant. He accepts the position as a fish inspector in order to placate La Belle Lisa. Florent is going along with the program, as it were, because he still lacks direction. The boredom of doing nothing all day, hanging around the charcuterie and getting underfoot takes its toll on Florent. He is unsure of himself and feels slightly nervous about his re-entry into Parisian society. Florent is extremely fearful on his first day at work and is overwhelmed at the sights and smells of the markets. Gavard is pleased that Florent has accepted the position, as Monsieur Gavard believes that Florent's status as an undiscovered escaped convict is a perfect way to thumb his nose at the government. Now that Florent is employed, La Belle Lisa is satisfied, and...