Two pretty young women, who were crossing the road, came up to us. They were attractive and distinguished-looking. They both had baskets on their arms, and we noticed their brassards. They gracefully offered us cigarettes, cakes, and packets of sweets tied up with ribbons. I helped myself discreetly. De Valpic would only accept a flower, which he stuck in his cap.
"And what about your comrades?"
We called Bouillon who was passing. He was still only half-clothed, as he had been washing at a fountain. At last he made up his mind to it and they made a great fuss over "the brave poilu."
Having stuffed him with dainties, they began to question him. Where did he come from? From Paris, really! And what quarter? Grenelle. One of them exclaimed that she lived in that part too. Bouillon was stammering in his embarrassment.
I took it upon myself to give them "Marie's" address. The young woman promised to go and see her, no later than to-morrow, and she would take something for the baby.
I think that they had recognised De Valpic and myself as belonging to their world. Just as they were about to go on their way, they turned round once more.
"Perhaps you have some letters to send?"
"Yes, indeed."
We gave them the missives.
"Good luck to you!"