"I will reflect on what you have
said."
"In allowing myself to say so much, my dear friend, it is because your
personal interest is far more deeply implicated than any concern or
vanity of mine. In the first place, the matter lies entirely with the
Marshal. And then, my good fellow, we are blamed for so many things,
that one more or less! We are not at the maiden stage in our
experience of fault-finding. Under the Restoration, men were put in
simply to give them places, without any regard for the office.--We are
old friends----"
"Yes," the Baron put in; "and it is in order not to impair our old and
valued friendship that I--"
"Well, well," said the departmental manager, seeing Hulot's face
clouded with embarrassment, "I will take myself off, old fellow.--But
I warn you! you have enemies--that is to say, men who covet your
splendid appointment, and you have but one anchor out. Now if, like
me, you were a Deputy, you would have nothing to fear; so mind what
you are about."
This speech, in the most friendly spirit, made a deep impression on
the Councillor of State.
"But, after all, Roger, what is it that is wrong? Do not make any
mysteries with me."
The individual addressed as Roger looked at Hulot, took his hand, and
pressed it.
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