"I am well aware, Salvat," said he, "that you are not wicked at heart.

But what a foolish and abominable thing you did!" Salvat showed no sign of anger, but gently smiled.

"Oh! if it had to be done again, Monsieur Froment, I'd do it.

It's my idea, you know.

And, apart from you, all is well; I am content." He would not sit down, but for another moment continued talking with Guillaume, while Janzen, as if he washed his hands of the business, deeming this visit both useless and dangerous, sat down and turned over the leaves of a picture book.