For an artist to be in Clergeot's debt was a recommendation preferable to the warmest criticism.
Madame Juliette had procured this useful and honourable acquaintance for her lover.
Noel, who well knew how sensitive this worthy man was to kind attentions, and how pleased by politeness, began by offering him a seat, and asking after his health.

Clergeot went into details.

His teeth were still good; but his sight was beginning to fail.

His legs were no longer so steady, and his hearing was not all that could be desired.

The chapter of complaints ended--"You know," said he, "why I have called.
Your bills fall due to-day; and I am devilishly in need of money.