But in their chats
together both evinced good sense and serene confidence, without sign of
undue haste. Particularly was this the case with Denis, who was very
methodical in his ways and unwilling to place a woman's happiness in
question until he could offer her an assured position. Thus, of their own
accord, they had postponed their marriage, quietly and smilingly
resisting the passionate assaults of Rose, whom the idea of three
weddings on the same day had greatly excited. At the same time, Denis
continued visiting Madame Desvignes, who, on her side, equally prudent
and confident, received him much as if he were her son. That morning he
had even quitted the farm at seven o'clock, saying that he meant to
surprise Blaise in bed; and thus he also was to be met at Janville.
As it happened, the fete of Janville fell on Sunday, the second in May.
Encompassing the square in front of the railway station were roundabouts,
booths, shooting galleries, and refreshment stalls. Stormy showers during
the night had cleansed the sky, which was of a pure blue, with a flaming
sun, whose heat in fact was excessive for the season. A good many people
were already assembled on the square--all the idlers of the district,
bands of children, and peasants of the surrounding country, eager to see
the sights; and into the midst of this crowd fell the Froments--first the
bicyclists, next the wagon, and then the others who had been met at the
entry of the village.
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