Micou knew to what punishment he was subject, for having several times
acquired, at a miserable price, the fruits of Nicholas's robberies, and of
several others.
He being arrested, the receiver found himself almost at the discretion of
the bandit, who could point him out as his habitual fence. Although this
accusation might not be sustained by flagrant proofs, it was not the less
very dangerous for Micou: so he had immediately executed the orders which
Nicholas had sent him by a prisoner whose time had expired.
"Well! how do you get on, Daddy Micou?" said the thief.
"To serve you, sir," answered the receiver, eagerly. "As soon as I saw the
person you sent me, right away I--"
"Stop! why do you speak so loftily, Micou?" said Nicholas, interrupting
him, with a sardonic air. "Do you not despise me because I am in quod?"
"No, I despise no one," said the receiver, who did not care to make public
his past familiarity with this wretch.
"Well, then, speak as usual, or I shall believe you have no friendship for
me, and that would break my heart."
"As you like," said Micou, sighing. "I have busied myself with all your
little commissions."
"Well spoken, Micou. I knew well that you would not forget friends. The
weed?"
"I have left two pounds at the office, my lad."
"Is it good?"
"None better."
"And the ham?"
"Also left there, with a quartern loaf.
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