Gavard

Gavard is in his late 50's by the time the novel starts. He used to run a charcuterie until his wife died in 1848. He is now a poulterer in Les Halles and lives in rooms in Rue de Cossonerie. He is believed to be very wealthy.
He befriended Florent and Quenu after their mother's death and is the first friend Florent meets on his return to Paris. He is related to several characters in the novel. See his family tree here.

He is also a regular at the tavern where a political group meets. This has severe consequences for him by the end of the story.