Now, indeed, was Pericard happy. He nodded most vigorously to
Cecile. He showed her his three francs. He tossed them in the air. He
spun them before him on the dirty road. It seemed wonderful that he
did not lose his treasures. Finally, after indulging in about six
somersaults in succession, he deposited the coins in his mouth, and
became grave after his own fashion again.
Now must he and the English children, for such he believed them,
have the exquisite delight of spending this precious money. They
turned into a street which resembled more an ordinary market than a
street. Here were provisions in abundance; here were buyers and
sellers; here was food of all descriptions. Each vender of food had
his own particular stall, set up under his own particular awning.
Pericard seemed to know the place well. Maurice screamed with delight
at the sight of so much delicious food, and even patient Toby licked
his chops, and owned to himself that their morning's breakfast had
been very scanty.
Cecile alone--too intent on her mission to be hungry--felt little
interest in the tempting stalls.
Pericard, however, began to lay in provisions judiciously. Here in
this Rue de Sevres, were to be bought fruit, flowers, vegetables of
all kinds, butter, cheese, cream, and even fish.
"Bonjour, Pere Bison," said Pericard, who, feeling himself rich,
made his choice with care and deliberation.
This old man sold turkey eggs, cream-cheese, and butter.
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