From the book
The Gods Are Athirst
Anatole France · Diotimos Editions · 2026
Browse this book’s lexicon →Meaning
Phrase.
À la pistole means confinement in improved quarters obtained for payment. In this construction it names an accommodation regime, not a particular coin or fixed charge. After the dungeon a poor bed in a reasonably clean shared room brings Brotteaux extraordinary relief. He then pays to bring Longuemare there and supports the expense with craft work, so the lexical distinction reveals both prison inequality and practical friendship.
Places to read
- Chapter XIX, paragraph 6Frenchle mettre à la pistole, moyennant finance: move him to paying quarters for a payment. The gaoler promises improvement when a place becomes available.
- Chapter XIX, paragraph 9FrenchIl le fit recevoir à la pistole: he had the priest admitted to the paying quarters. Brotteaux undertakes the cost.