"Pray, doctor, follow me," he repeated, and understanding
that an example was necessary, he turned to the girl, exclaiming, "What
business have you to be here? Why haven't you gone upstairs to wash and
dress? I shall fling a pailful of water in your face if you don't hurry
off and tidy yourself."
Then he forced her to rise and drove her off, all scared and terrified,
in front of him. When she had gone upstairs he led the two gentlemen to
the office entrance and began to complain: "Ah! doctor, if you only knew
what trouble I have even to get those girls to wash their hands! We who
are so clean! who put all our pride in keeping the house clean. If ever a
speck of dust is seen anywhere it is certainly not my fault."
Since the girl had gone upstairs a fearful tumult had arisen on the upper
floors, whence also a vile smell descended. Some dispute, some battle,
seemed to be in progress. There were shouts and howls, followed by a
furious exchange of vituperation.
"Pray excuse me," at last exclaimed Monsieur Broquette; "my wife will
receive you in a minute."
Thereupon he slipped off and flew up the stairs with noiseless agility.
Pages:
235
236
237
238
239
240
241
242
243
244
245
246
247
248
249
250
251
252
253
254
255
256
257
258
259