176 THE LIFE OF PASTEUR 



was Pasteur's desire when he entered Liebig's laboratory. The 

 tall old man, in a long frock coat, received him with kindly 

 courtesy; but when Pasteur, who was eager to come to the 

 object of his visit, tried to approach the delicate subject, 

 Liebig, without losing his amenity, refused all discussion, 

 alleging indisposition. Pasteur did not insist, but promised 

 himself that he would return to the charge. 



