Madame Ponce

There's no one in this building I can't recognize by footstep. One more's been added lately, and that one doesn't pay rent.

• VoisinLeaves at two.
  Madame PonceLeaves at two, reaches our stairs at half past. My arithmetic's faster than yours.
• Zora BernierThose footsteps, one heel's worn down more, so they don't sound even.
  Madame PonceThat's exactly why I count it as one.

The sixth floor has the cheapest rent. I don't charge for the skylight, and in winter, that's the most expensive thing in the room.

• Marianne GodetLast winter the water pail in that room froze solid.
  Madame PonceWhat freezes, thaws. The rent doesn't.
• Armand DufortA room with good light is usually a cold one.
  Madame PonceSir, that saying won't buy you a single lump of coal.