In a moment the Vicomte appeared. Oh! how pale and hollow-eyed he was! As he entered, Jane fell back among her pillows, covering her face with her hands.
"What is it?" asked Esperance.
"Only a little more fever, sir, but I feared an accident, and called you."
"You did right, and I thank you."
He took the girl's hands gently in his. At his touch tears sprang to Jane's closed eyes, and a little shiver passed over her whole body.
"She is calmer now," said Madame, "and I am almost sorry that I have disturbed you."
"No—I am very glad you did. You must be very weary. Lie down, and I will stay here until dawn."
"No—I am old, I do not require much sleep, while you——"
Esperance sat on the foot of the bed, holding Jane's slender hands.