The woman resented the child’s interference: “You are a forward little minx! As though I would refuse her food! Come in, and I will give you all you want.”
Vivienne looked at the woman, her great black eyes full of the loathing she felt.
“After what you have said? No, madame, food from your hands would choke me.”
Vivienne turned away, took the little girl’s hand, and they walked slowly towards the pretty little cottage to which the child pointed, saying over and over again: “That’s where mamma lives.”
Vivienne had no sooner reached the house where she had been promised food and rest than her head swam, she lost consciousness, and fell helpless upon the floor. When she revived she heard the sound of voices. She opened her eyes and saw that she was in a darkened room. An old gentleman sat beside her, while a lady, with a kind, motherly look upon her face, stood at the foot of the bed regarding her.
“You are better, my dear. The doctor, here, said that if you awoke in your right mind all would be well. You are better, are you not?”
Vivienne could not resist answering a question put so pleasantly.
“I am feeling quite well, madame,” she replied. Then in an instant all came back to her. She raised herself in bed and cried:
“Where am I? Have I been sick? For God’s sake, dear lady, tell me how long I have been here.”
“My little daughter brought you here three days ago,” was the answer.