exploded from the branches of an alder. But the trees were
"I daresay that it is horrible, and I have no wish to proceed to extremities. I only wish to speak of it as a remote possibility, and one that we may be compelled to adopt. I hate violence just as much as you do, and trust that it may not be necessary."
Just then the door opened, and Paul entered, a letter in his hand. He seemed in excellent spirits, and shook hands with both his visitors.
Tantaine smiled sarcastically as he contrasted Paul's high spirits with the state of depression in which he had left him not many hours ago.
"Things are evidently going well with you," remarked the doctor, forcing a smile.
"Yes; I cannot find any reason for complaint."
"Yes; what a delightful woman Madame Grandorge is! she has treated me so kindly."
"That is a good reason for your being so happy," remarked the doctor, with a tinge of irony in his voice.
"Ah, that is not the only reason," returned Paul.