medium height which is the privilege of sound organizations. He is
rather plump, and takes great pains with his person. His forehead is
getting bald, but he uses that circumstance to give himself the air of
a man consumed by thought. It is easy to see by the way his wife looks
at him and listens to him that she believes in the genius and glory of
her husband. Vital loves artists, not that he has any taste for art,
but from fellowship; for he feels himself an artist, and makes this
felt by disclaiming that title of nobility, and placing himself with
constant premeditation at so great a distance from the arts that
persons may be forced to say to him: "You have raised the construction
of hats to the height of a science."

"Have you at last discovered a hat to suit me?" asked Leon de Lora.

"Why, monsieur! in fifteen days?" replied Vital, "and for you! Two
months would hardly suffice to invent a shape in keeping with your
countenance. See, here is your lithographic portrait: I have studied
it most carefully. I would not give myself that trouble for a prince;
but you are more; you are an artist, and you understand me."

"This is one of our greatest inventors," said Bixiou presenting
Gazonal. "He might be as great as Jacquart if he would only let
himself die. Our friend, a manufacturer of cloth, has discovered a
method of replacing the indigo in old blue coats, and he wants to see
you as another great phenomenon, because he has heard of your saying,
'The hat is the man.' That speech of yours enraptured him. Ah! Vital,
you have faith; you believe in something; you have enthusiasm for your
work."

Vital scarcely listened; he grew pale with pleasure.