1. Is this a Christmas story? Give reasons for your
answer. Is its title fitting? What in the story
itself suggests the time of year? Where do the
events take place? Contrast this story with "The
Cratchits' Christmas," preceding, as to (_a_) kind
of people; (_b_) place; (_c_) the chief actor;
(_d_) the feast itself; (_e_) the manner of
telling.
2. Describe Paulette's family. How did they make a
living? How had the author become acquainted with
Paulette?
3. Émile Souvestre (soo ves tr´) was a French
novelist and dramatist (1806-1854). His chief works
deal with his native Brittany, but his last book
has in it charming studies of Paris life.