And was not this an opportunity, since chance had gathered those men together in his house, living exponents of the conflicting doctrines which he wished to examine?
On turning round, however, he perceived that Guillaume was now very pale and had closed his eyes.

Had even he, with his faith in science, felt the doubt which is born of contradictory theories, and the despair which comes when one sees the fight for truth resulting in growth of error?
"Are you in pain ?" the priest anxiously inquired.
"Yes, a little.

But I will try to sleep." At this they all went off with silent handshakes.

Nicholas Barthes alone remained in the house and slept in a room on the first floor which Sophie had got ready for him.

Pierre, unwilling to quit his brother, dozed off upon a sofa.