A wild dream that she, now being free, could love him filled his heart with rapture.

“She wishes to do what is right,” replied Jean, “and has a word to say to you.”

“Must I go at once?”

“Yes.”

“Well, I am ready.”

“Come, little one. You must accompany us.”

“Oh, no! Why should I go?”

“Because she wishes to speak to you, too.”

A quarter of an hour afterward the three entered Catherine’s presence.

“Thanks, Jean, for bringing them here; and you, my young friends, I thank you for coming.”