You
must obtain employment at the works for a young man in whom I am
interested. And if you desire to please me, you will even take him into
your own office."
Morange, who was seated in front of her on the other side of the
chimney-piece, gave her a look of surprise.
"But I am not the master," he replied; "apply to the master, he will
certainly do whatever you ask."
"No, I do not wish to be indebted to Denis in any way. Besides, that
would not suit my plans. You yourself must recommend the young man, and
take him as an assistant, coaching him and giving him a post under you.
Come, you surely have the power to choose a clerk. Besides, I insist on
it."
She spoke like a sovereign, and he bowed his back, for he had obeyed
people all his life; first his wife, then his daughter, and now that
dethroned old queen who terrified him in spite of the dim feeling of
rebellion which had been growing within him for some time past.
"No doubt, I might take the young man on," he said, "but who is he?"
Constance did not immediately reply. She had turned towards the fire,
apparently for the purpose of raising a log of wood with the tongs, but
in reality to give herself time for further reflection.
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