In Paris he led a low, idle life; he was one of those students who enter their names at the taverns of the Quartier Latin.

He did not remain there, however, more than two years; his father, growing apprehensive, and seeing that he had not yet passed a single examination, kept him at Plassans and spoke of finding a wife for him, hoping that domestic responsibility would make him more steady.

Aristide let himself be married.

He had no very clear idea of his own ambitions at this time; provincial life did not displease him; he was battening in his little town--eating, sleeping, and sauntering about.

Felicite pleaded his cause so earnestly that Pierre consented to board and lodge the newly-married couple, on condition that the young man should turn his attention to the business.
From that time, however, Aristide led a life of ease and idleness.