he whom they had the greatest difficulty in killing, was but
nineteen and a half years old.

Alexandre listened to my story with much interest. When I had
finished: "Do you know," said he, "what I should do in your place?"

"What?"

"I should lay aside 'Rene d'Argonne,' which refuses to materialize,
and in its stead I should write 'The Companions of Jehu.'"

"But just think, I have had that other novel in mind for a year
or two, and it is almost finished."

"It never will be since it is not finished now."

"Perhaps you are right, but I shall lose six months regaining
my present vantage-ground."

"Good! In three days you will have written half a volume."

"Then you will help me."

"Yes, for I shall give you two characters."

"Is that all?"

"You are too exacting! The rest is your affair; I am busy with
my 'Question d'Argent.'"