You will see on the
road which leads to Nid-aux-Crocs through the Val de Gibarry, a
farmhouse belonging to Cibot--otherwise called Galope-Chopine. Go in,
and say to his wife: 'Good-day, Becaniere,' and Barbette will hide you.
If Galope-Chopine discovers you he will either take you for the ghost,
if it is dark, or ten crowns will master him if it is light. Adieu,
our account is squared. But if you choose," he added, waving his hand
about him, "all this is yours."
Mademoiselle de Verneuil gave the strange old man a look of thanks,
and succeeded in extracting a sigh from him, expressing a variety of
emotions.
"You will of course return me my ten crowns; and please remark that I
ask no interest. You can pay them to my credit with Maitre Patrat, the
notary at Fougeres, who would draw our marriage contract if you
consented to be mine. Adieu."
"Adieu," she said, smiling and waving her hand.
"If you ever want money," he called after her, "I'll lend it to you at
five per cent; yes, only five--did I say five?--why, she's gone! That
girl looks to me like a good one; nevertheless, I'll change the secret
opening of my chimney."
Then he took a twelve-pound loaf and a ham, and returned to his
hiding-place.
* * * * *
As Mademoiselle de Verneuil walked through the country she seemed to
breathe a new life.
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