Question: Why had M. Hamel put on his fine Sunday clothes? Why were the old men of the village sitting there in the back of the classroom?
Answer: The backbenches were occupied by the people of the village. Old Hansar, who had on his three Cornered hat, the former Mayor, the former postmaster and several other elders. They had come to express their respect and regard for M. Hamel and sorrow that he had to leave from their midst.
