You know how kind your aunt is, and all that she intends to do for you." But no, he would not yield.

At that moment, indeed, he really hated that woman, who did not die quickly enough, who polluted the affection of his parents, to such a point that when he saw them surround him with attentions he no longer knew whether it were himself or the inheritance which his life represented that they wished to save.

However, Madame Vigneron, so dignified in her demeanour, came to her husband's help.

"You really grieve me, Gustave," said she; "ask your aunt's forgiveness, or you will make me quite angry with you." Thereupon he gave way.

What was the use of resisting?
Was it not better that his parents should obtain that money?
Would he not himself die later on, so as to suit the family convenience?
He was aware of all that; he understood everything, even when not a word was spoken.