Marguerite went away, after having whispered to Frederick:
"M. Frederick, when you hear me cough behind the door, all will be ready."
And the old servant went out.
At the sight of the doctor, Madame Bastien said, cheerfully:
"Oh, now that you are here, my good doctor, I do not doubt any longer that there is a conspiracy."
"A conspiracy?" answered Doctor Dufour, affecting astonishment, while David and Frederick exchanged a smile.
"Yes, yes," replied Marie. "A surprise they are preparing for me. But I warn you that surprises are very dangerous to poor invalids like me, and you had a great deal better tell me beforehand."
"All that I can tell you, my dear impatient and beautiful invalid, is that we have agreed that to-day is the day when you must make an attempt to walk alone for the first time, and that it is my duty, yes, madame, my duty to assist this exertion of your powers."
Scarcely had the doctor uttered these words, when they heard Marguerite cough with great affectation behind the door.
"Come, mother," said Frederick to his mother, tenderly, "have courage now, we are going to take a long walk in the house."