It was only in the evening, while they were sitting at dinner, that the master suddenly interrupted Armand as he was talking about a cousin’s wedding – and poking fun at the couple, their parents, their guests, the rite and the priest – and said ‘Anyway, the past has been forgotten, and we forgive you. After all, you’re young and you can find your way back to the straight path. Everything depends on you. My position here is fairly good, and looks set to improve. If you show goodwill in your work, one day you’ll become a partner. If you walk the straight path you’ll receive all the respect you’re due – and I’ll be the first to show it to you; otherwise, I’ll be the first to punish you. So consider yourself welcome in my house, so long as you abide by these conditions.’
Armand abruptly stoo
