Then the fellowship which grew up between their sons and those of the local big-wigs completed the parents' gratification.

The youngsters were soon on familiar terms with the sons of the Mayor and the Sub-Prefect, and even with two or three young noblemen whom the Saint-Marc quarter had deigned to send to the Plassans College.

Felicite was at a loss how to repay such an honour.

The education of the three lads weighed seriously on the budget of the Rougon household.
Until the boys had taken their degrees, their parents, who kept them at college at enormous sacrifices, lived in hopes of their success.

When they had obtained their diplomas Felicite wished to continue her work, and even persuaded her husband to send the three to Paris.