—It is I, she said.
—This way, this way, my little dear, said the conductor with a good-natured familiarity which disgusted Marcel; there is no room inside. And, to the priest's great delight, he opened the coupé.
The young girl seemed surprised, for she hesitated a little and said:
—What, in the coupé?
—Yes, my imp of Satan, in the coupé, and in good hands too. Do you complain? If you are not converted yet, here are two gentlemen who will undertake your conversion.
—Well, I ask for nothing better, she answered laughing; and addressing herself to Marcel: Will you take my band-box for me?
He took the box, and at the same time offered his hand to help her to get up. She leant on it prettily; and bowing to him, and to Ridoux also, she sat down beside Marcel.
—You have come back then into the country, Mademoiselle.
—I have not left it, sir; I have been ill. I am coming out of the hospital.
—Oh, really. And what has been the matter with you?