"It is unfortunate," said the notary, "that this heir also did not make his appearance--but he has, unhappily, forfeited his right to the immense inheritance that is in question."
"Oh! an immense inheritance is in question," said Faringhea, looking fixedly at Rodin, who prudently turned away his eyes.
The second of the two personages we have mentioned entered at this moment.It was the father of Marshal Simon, an old man of tall stature, still active and vigorous for his age.His hair was white and thin.His countenance, rather fresh-colored, was expressive at once of quickness, mildness and energy.
Agricola advanced hastily to meet him."You here, M.Simon!" he exclaimed.
"Yes, my boy," said the marshal's father, cordially pressing Agricola's hand "I have just arrived from my journey.M.Hardy was to have been here, about some matter of inheritance, as he supposed: but, as he will still be absent from Paris for some time, he has charged me--"
"He also an heir!--M.Francis Hardy!" cried Agricola, interrupting the old workman.