Andre, were lounging about. They had
expected to see him early, and were surprised at his non-appearance,
as he was usually punctuality itself. Andre greeted them in a friendly
manner, but M. Gandelu, though he was always on friendly terms with his
workmen, passed by them as if he did not even notice their existence. He
walked through the different rooms and examined them carelessly, without
seeming to take any interest in them, for his thoughts were with his
son,--his only son.

After a short time he returned to Andre.

"I cannot stay longer," said he; "I am not feeling well; I will be here
to-morrow;" and he went away with his head bent down on his chest.

The workmen noticed his strange and unusual manner.

"He does not look very bright," remarked one to his comrade. "Since
his illness he has not been the same man. I think he must have had some
terrible shock."

CHAPTER XXIV.

AN ARTFUL TRICK.

Andre had removed his coat and donned his blouse, the sleeves of which
were rolled up to his shoulders. "I must get to business," murmured he,
"to make up for lost time." He set to work with great vigor, but had
hardly got into the swing, when a lad came actively up the ladder and
told him that a gentleman wished to see him, "and a real swell, too,"
added the boy. Andre was a good deal put out at being disturbed, but
when he reached the street and saw that it was M. de Breulh-Faverlay
who was waiting for him, his ill-humor disappeared like chaff before the
wind.

"Ah, this is really kind of you," cried he; for he could never forget
the debt of gratitude he owed to the gentleman. "A thousand thanks for
remembering me. Excuse my not shaking hands, but see;" and he exhibited
his palms all white with plaster. As he did so the smile died away on
his lips, for he caught sight of his friend's face.

"What is the matter?" exclaimed he, anxiously. "Is Sabine worse? Has she
had a relapse?"

De Breulh shook his head, but the expression of his face clearly said,--

"Would to heavens it were only that!"

But the news that Sabine was not worse relieved Andre at once, and he
patiently waited for his friend to explain.

"I have seen her twice for you," answered De Breulh; "but it is
absolutely necessary that you should come to a prompt decision on an
important affair."

"I am quite at your service," returned Andre a good deal surprised and
troubled.

"Then come with me at once, I did not drive here, but we shall not be