events that occurred since the disappearance of Cecily.

"A hundred to ten, if the present state of his health continues, before a
month the governor will be as dead as a doornail."

"The fact is, that since the servant who had the air of an Alsatian has
left the house, he has had nothing but skin on his bones."

"And what skin!"

"I'll wager he was in love with this Alsatian, for it is since her
departure that he has shriveled up so!"

"He in love? what nonsense! on the contrary, he sees the priests more than
ever; and the parish cure, a very respectable man (one must be just), went
away yesterday, saying (I overheard him) to another priest who accompanied
him,' This is admirable! M. Ferrand is the personification of Charity and
Generosity.'"

"The cure said that? of himself? without prompting?"

"Yes! I heard him."

"Then, I can't understand it at all. The cure has the reputation, and
deserves it, of being what is called a right good pastor."

"It is true; and of him we must speak seriously and with respect; he is as
good and charitable as 'Little Blue Mantle,' [Footnote: We must be allowed
to mention here, with veneration, the name of that excellent man, M.
Champion, with whom we have not the honor of a personal acquaintance, but