This is a book about ordinary people who are living ordinary lives, and they are suffering all the things that we all do. Life was hard, and I am so sad to think that someone who has a successful meat business can't afford the kids....can you imagine this! But one problem at this time is that there were too many people who bought on credit at these local stores, and it was a matter of extending credit or having no business. Like Mazarine's family---they owe more than they will ever be able to pay back---but Fidelis (or maybe it was more Eva) would not let them starve. It was more charity than business----that sure doesn't happen anymore.
It was really funny that Markus thought he was being measured for a coffin, but I can completely understand how it would seem that way to him----laying sick for so long, not getting better. Delphine may have called it Earth Sickness, but it seemed to be more of a spiritual experience for him, feeling as if he was being held by Eva.
I thought you would like that Step-and-a-Half got her own shop. I was cheering for her. As to her hiring Tante, I can see it and I am not really sorry to see it....it certainly put Tante in her place. Can you imagine how low Tante had to go to be willing to accept a job from her?
It sure looks like Clarisse and Cyprian left town together. They both disappear the same night. And he was there at her house. We will have to see if we find out.
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