As Landolin and Madam Pfann went up the stairs, Landolin stepped as lightly as the lady.
In the upper room, where Thoma's outfit was stored, the air was close. The judge's wife quickly opened the window, and then turned to Landolin, and looked at him with the clear, friendly glance before which harshness and obduracy seemed always to disappear. Wherever she came, she diffused peace and calmness and noble graciousness.
A maid-servant brought food and drink.
Landolin went to the doors to see that no one was listening, and then said, with a modest politeness that was quite new for him:
"Pray be seated on the sofa; and permit me now to ask what you have to tell me?"
CHAPTER LVIII.
"Mr. Ex-Bailiff," began the lady.
"Please say simply Landolin, without the Mr. or ex-bailiff."
"Well then, Landolin, a while ago you said a word which I will not repeat. You said it in derision, in anger and vexation. Landolin, you are acquitted, but I wish that you would acquit yourself, and that you can do to-day, to me, by my help."
"Madam, I went to confession to-day, to the priest, at church."