So the three of them went round by way of the Rue Gabrielle and climbed the steps of the Rue Chape.

And just as they were reaching the summit where the basilica reared its forest of scaffoldings beneath the clear sky, they encountered Thomas, who, on leaving the factory, had gone to give an order to a founder in the Rue Lamarck.
He, who as a rule was so silent and discreet, now happened to be in an expansive mood, which made him look quite radiant.

"Ah! I'm so pleased," he said, addressing Pierre; "I fancy that I've found what I want for our little motor.

Tell father that things are going on all right, and that he must make haste to get well." At these words his brothers, Francois and Antoine, drew close to him with a common impulse.

And they stood there all three, a valiant little group, their hearts uniting and beating with one and the same delight at the idea that their father would be gladdened, that the good news they were sending him would help him towards recovery.