"I think you are a very intelligent girl," said Mme. Bretoneux with a flattering, ingratiating smile.
At these words and the look which accompanied them Perrine's suspicions were aroused at once.
"Thank you," she said, exaggerating her simple child-like smile, "all I ask is to give as good service as William."
"Ah, I was sure we could count on you," said Mme. Bretoneux.
"You have only to say what you wish, Madame," said little Perrine, looking up at the intruder with her big innocent eyes.
"First of all you must be very attentive about his health; you must watch him carefully and see that he does not take cold. A cold might be fateful; he would have pulmonary congestion and that would aggravate his bronchitis. Do you know if they could cure him of his bronchial trouble they could operate upon him and give him back his sight? Think what happiness that would be for all of us."
"I also would be happy," replied Perrine.
"Those words prove that you are grateful for what he has done for you, but, then, you are not of the family."
Perrine assumed her most innocent air.
"Yes, but that does not prevent me from being attached to M. Vulfran," she said, "believe me, I am."