One might say that it was the affectionate pity of an old philosopher anxious to console a young friend by imparting to him his own resignation and patience; for Trompette did not become reconciled, drawing his trains without any taste for the work, standing with lowered head blinded by the darkness, and for ever regretting the sun.
On aurait dit la pitié affectueuse d'un vieux philosophe, désireux de soulager un jeune ami, en lui donnant sa résignation et sa patience; car Trompette ne s'acclimatait pas, tirait ses berlines sans gout, restait la tete basse, aveuglé de nuit, avec le constant regret du soleil.