"
This direction was not remarkable for its precision, but it was
more than sufficient for a pure-blooded Parisian like Victor
Chupin. "Many thanks for your kindness," he said to the porter.
"A blind man, perhaps, might not be able to go straight to M. de
Coralth's house from your directions, but I have eyes and a tongue
as well. And, believe me, if there's any reward, you shall see
that I know how to repay a good turn."
"And if you don't find the viscount," added the waiters, "bring
the money here, and it will be returned to him."
"Naturally!" replied Chupin. And he strode hurriedly away.
"Return!" he muttered; "not I! I thought for a moment they had
their hands on my precious bank-note."
But he had already recovered from his fright, and as he turned his
steps homeward he congratulated himself on the success of his
stratagem. "For my viscount is caught," he said to himself. "The
Rue d'Anjou Saint Honore hasn't a hundred numbers in it, and even
if I'm compelled to go from door to door, my task will soon be
accomplished."
On reaching home he found his mother engaged in knitting, as
usual. This was the only avocation that her almost complete
blindness allowed her to pursue; and she followed it constantly.
"Ah! here you are, Toto," she exclaimed, joyously. "I didn't
expect you so soon. Don't you scent a savory smell? As you must
be greatly tired after being up all night, I'm making you a stew.
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