The Emperor, some of our visitors said, is very fond of artillery, and
he will give master immense contracts from the report of the examining
committee being so favorable."

"Really, Hedwig, you are becoming quite learned from the association
with scientists. What long words you use!

"That's nothing," said the servant, complacently.

"There is no word difficult in French to a German. but I can tell you
that, as we cannot live on air, and these promises do not bear present
fruit, master has been forced to sell this house."

"Eh! why is that? I like the place well enough."

"You were not here to be consulted, madame, and, we wanted the money.
Master does not wish to be obliged to M. Daniels and, besides, he, too,
does not get in the cash for his company any too rapidly. Master ran
into debt while making his guns and cannon, and we have been pinched for
ready money."

"I am glad to hear it!" ejaculated Césarine, without spitefulness, and
with more sincerity than she had spoken previously.

The girl stared without understanding.

"I have money--cash--to help him, and it will be far more proper for
him to be obliged to his wife than to strangers. Besides, I should not
tax him with usurious interest," she said maliciously.