Besides, she was too profoundly overcome to eat. She arranged the fire with care, so that the haricot of mutton would keep warm, for it was his favorite dish.
Minutes and hours passed and he did not return. Her anguish came back; a witness would not be retained so long by the judge. Had they arrested him? Then what would become of him?
She fell into a state of tears and despair, and longed for Phillis. Fortunately she would not be late to-day. Finally a quick, light step was heard on the landing, and as soon as she could, Madame Cormier went to open the door, and was stunned on seeing the agitated face of her daughter. Evidently Phillis was surprised by the sudden opening of the door.
“You know all, then?” Madame Cormier cried.
Phillis put her arms about her, and drew her into the dining-room, where she made her sit down.
“Becalm,” she said. “They will not keep him.”
“You know some way?”
“We will find a way. I promise you that they will not keep him.”
“You are sure?”
“I promise you.”