"That's no matter. Even if you could walk, Jean, I'd be afraid to take you to my house by daylight,--not that I fear for myself; but ever since the death of that young man I fear treachery. Get back under those bushes; hide as best you can; wait till dark, and I'll come back with a cart and fetch you. Then, to-morrow, I'll go for the bone-setter at Machecoul; he'll rub his hand over the nerves of your foot, and in three days you'll run like a rabbit."
"Hang it! I know that would be best, but--"
"Wouldn't you do as much for me?"
"You know, Marianne, I'd go through fire and water for you."
"Then don't say another word. I shall be back after dark."
"Thank you; I accept your offer. You may be very sure you are not helping an ungrateful man."
"It is not to get your gratitude I am doing it, Jean Oullier; but to fulfil my duty as an honest woman."
She looked about her.
"What are you looking for?" asked Jean.
"I was thinking if you tried to get farther back among the bushes you would be safer than in this ditch."