Page:The Writings of Prosper Merimee-Volume 1.djvu/291

Rh me with good things, and my little house has become a palace." "No," I replied, "my uncle is very old; if I had the misfortune to lose him I should not know whom to address to obtain a suitable post." "Alas! madam, I should be very sorry to leave this village! … The curé de Sainte Marie is dead, … but I am not troubled, because I believe he will be replaced by the Abbé Raton, who is a most excellent priest. I am delighted with his appointment, for if Monseigneur had thought of me" "The curé de Sainte Marie is dead!" I cried. "I will go to my uncle at N to-day."

"Ah, madam, do nothing in the matter. The Abbé Raton is much better fitted for it than I; and, then, to leave Noirmoutiers! …"

"Monsieur l'Abbé," I said resolutely, "you must!" At these words he lowered his head and did not venture to oppose. I nearly ran back to the château. He followed me a couple of paces behind, poor man, too much upset to open his mouth. He was quite crushed. I did not lose a minute. By eight o'clock I was at my uncle's house. I found him very much prejudiced in favour of his Raton; but he is fond of me, and I know my power. At length, after a long discussion, I got my way. Raton is cast aside, and