The Arrival of the Priest
The Arrival of the Priest Caderousse is at his observation post when his wife’s shrill voice summons him indoors, and he grumbling mounts to her chamber, leaving the entrance door wide open as an invitation to any traveler. The deserted road stretches like a Sahara at midday when a dim outline appears from the direction of Bellegarde: a man and horse moving in perfect understanding. The horse is of Hungarian breed, ambling easily, while its rider is a priest dressed in black with a three-cornered hat, advancing despite the noonday sun. At the Pont du Gard, the horse stops, the priest dismounts, secures his steed by the bridle to a handle projecting from a half-fallen door, wipes his brow with a red cotton handkerchief, and strikes the door thrice with his iron-shod stick.
Welcome at the Inn
Welcome at the Inn A huge black dog named Margotin rushes out, snarling and displaying sharp white teeth in determined hostility, but a heavy footstep is heard descending from the upper floor, and Caderousse emerges with many bows and courteous smiles, inviting the guest to enter. He exclaims welcomes to the astonished traveler, quiets the dog, and offers a glass of good wine against the dreadful heat. Upon noticing the priest’s garb, he hastily apologizes for not observing sooner, asking what refreshment he can offer, declaring all he has is at his service.
The Priest’s Inquiries
The Priest’s Inquiries The priest gazes searchingly at Caderousse, appearing to court a similar scrutiny, then terminates the silence by speaking with a strong Italian accent, asking if he is M. Caderousse. Caderousse confirms he is Gaspard Caderousse. The priest repeats the name, observing that Christian and surname match, and asks if he formerly lived in the Allées de Meilhan on the fourth floor, following the tailoring business. Caderousse confirms both, mentioning the trade fell off due to the heat at Marseilles, and again offers refreshment. The priest requests a bottle of his best wine, and they resume their conversation.
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