hurried along the street swinging his cane —he was
going to pay a visit to J6usŁ.
A pity that Jouse so greatly disliked him, but this
state of affairs must no longer continue, for he needed
the fellow's help now in his schemes, and moreover
Jouse would doubtless consent to work cheaply
in view of his financial position. Then again, if other
Sood workmen existed anywhere in the district
ouse could find them; his influence too should go a
>ng way, for his name was still very greatly respected.
With Jouse as foreman the building would run
smoothly, no thieving, no exorbitant demands, no
quarrels; and all done with the minimum of expense,
since the men would be living hard-by their work
which would save the cost of board or train journeys.
Of course there remaiaed the question of time; the
best of these southerners worked very slowly and one
villa at least must be ready by June — on that point
he would have to be firm and emphatic.
Arrived at the Benedit's house he knocked briskly:
'Bonjour, chere Madame. Can I speak with your
husband?'
Marie said: 'My husband is resting, Monsieur. It is
fete; will to-morrow not do as well?' and her gentle
brown eyes were hostile and watchful.
4Alas, no; my business is pressing,' he told her.
She hesitated, hating the man with all that her
gentleness could muster of hatred; yes, but also fearing
this soft-spoken stranger who was bringing her
husband's business to ruin. And seeing her hesitation
he stepped in and passed her quickly:
'Ah, pardon . . .'he murmured.
Jouse was sitting alone in the parlour with drooped
head and closed eyes: he appeared to be sleeping.
Kahn coughed and Jouse sat up with a jerk, saw him,
and lumbered onto his feet: 'Monsieur, what is the
meaning of this intrusion?'
277