A tremor ran through Hervé. Quickly recalling himself, he ran to the casement, opened it, and leaning forward, cried out: "Good evening, uncle!"
"Dear nephew, I am back from St. Denis. I did not wish to return to Paris without telling you all good-day!"
"Oh, dear uncle, a great misfortune has happened! La Catelle is dying. She sent for mother, who left at once. I could not accompany her, being obliged to remain here with Hena in father's absence. We feel uneasy at the thought that mother may have to come back all alone on this dark night."
"All alone! By the bowels of St. Quenet, of what earthly use am I, if not to protect my sister!" replied Josephin. "I shall start on a run to La Catelle's, and see your mother home. Be not uneasy, my lad. When I return I shall embrace you and your sister, if you are not yet in bed."
The Franc-Taupin hastened away. Hervé shut the window, and returned in a state of great excitement to Hena, who inquired:
"Why did you induce uncle to go to-night after mother? She is to stay all night at La Catelle's. Why do you not answer me? Why is your face so lowering? My God! What ails you? Brother, brother, do not look upon me with such eyes! I am trembling all over."
"Hena, I love you—I love you carnally!"
"I—do not comprehend—what—you say. I do not understand your words. You now frighten me. Your eyes are bloodshot."
"The kind of love you feel for that monk—that love I feel for you! I love you with a passionate desire."
"Hervé, you are out of your mind. You do not know what you say!"