M. Gerbaut and Father Descharmes got into the vehicle, and drove off in the direction of the village of Islettes.
CHAPTER XII.
WHAT PASSED IN THE FOREST.
For some time I followed the carriage with my eyes, for I feared to look at Sophie, as I could not help thinking that the expression of her face would decide my future happiness or misery.
After a time I made up my mind; I turned round.
Sophie had a smile on her lips, but it seemed as if the rest of her face was overshadowed with sadness.
I offered her my arm, which she took.
“What would you like to do?” I asked her. “Would you rather stay here, or take a stroll in the wood?”
“Take me under the shadow of yon great trees, M. Réné. In my little chamber at Varennes I stifle for want of air.”