Fearful shrieks would ring out for a time, and then deathlike silence would fall once more.
Grandidier came into the shed where Thomas was working.

A handsome man of forty, with an energetic face, he had a dark and heavy moustache, brush-like hair and clear eyes.

He was very partial to Thomas, and during the young fellow's apprenticeship there, had treated him like a son.

And he now let him return thither whenever it pleased him, and placed his appliances at his disposal.

He knew that he was trying to devise a new motor, a question in which he himself was extremely interested; still he evinced the greatest discretion, never questioning Thomas, but awaiting the result of his endeavours.
"This is my uncle, Abbe Froment, who looked in to wish me good day," said the young man, introducing Pierre.
An exchange of polite remarks ensued.