people draw back, half-frightened by his forbidding exterior.
Alphonse alone knew him so well that he never seemed to see his
ugliness; every one else misunderstood him. He became suspicious,
and retired more and more within himself.

In an insensible crescendo the thought grew in him: Why should he
never attain anything of that which he most longed for--intimate
and cordial intercourse and friendliness which should answer to
the warmth pent up within him? Why should every one smile to
Alphonse with out-stretched hands, while he must content himself
with stiff bows and cold glances?

Alphonse knew nothing of all this. He was joyous and healthy,
charmed with life and content with his daily work. He had been
placed in the easiest and most interesting branch of the business,
and, with his quick brain and his knack of making himself
agreeable, he filled his place satisfactorily.

His social circle was very large--every one set store by his
acquaintance, and he was at least as popular among women as among
men.

For a time Charles accompanied Alphonse into society, until he was
seized by a misgiving that he was invited for his friend's sake
alone, when he at once drew back.

When Charles proposed that they should set up in business
together, Alphonse had answered: "It is too good of you to choose
me. You could easily find a much better partner."