The women at the doors had plenty to say on the subject of the folly of Pere Merlier, who had thus introduced a reprobate into his house.

The miller let people talk on.

Perhaps he remembered his own marriage.

He was without a sou when he wedded Madeleine and her mill; this, however, had not prevented him from making a good husband.

Besides, Dominique cut short the gossip by going so vigorously to work that all the district was amazed.