Part 1, Search for the Father, Saint Brieuc and Malan (J.G.) Summary

Jacques, or J.C., watches his old friend, Victor Malan, eat. Victor is a retired customs administrator. Victor is an outstanding man, but he is not boring. He has an unusual way of thinking and Jacques appreciates this quality. Victor tells stories of "his friend" or "a man who he knew," but really it is himself. Victor looks Chinese. He tells Jacques that no one really knows anyone. Everyone has their own separate life away from others, such as his wife, who says she hates pastries, but goes to the bakery in secret. Victor disapproves of Jacques going in search of his father.

Jacques says he is not arrogant with Victor because he loves him dearly. Victor does not respond. Jacques says Victor...