“Of what are you then afraid, if not of the ‘little Jewess’?” asked she.
“There is nothing to fear. Everything is prospering beyond my hopes.”
“And your brother?”
“He is better. But I do not think he will seriously object to the plans I have in view for these children. Indeed, I have no plans for them. That will be for those who are to be appointed as their guardians. I hope to name these guardians. Cyprien may not agree with me, but still I think it can be arranged to suit us both.”
“And are you sure that their mother and your brother did not appoint them, even after you found the torn paper on your brother’s table?”
“It is impossible. If indeed there were any guardians legally appointed, that might make the work I have set myself more difficult. Other means would have to be used.”
“Ah, well! I doubt if ever you can make a nun of ‘the little Jewess,’” said Madame.
“Nothing is farther from my wish than to do that. Her sister shall be a nun and a saint, and if by any miracle of science and skill her blindness may be cured, it shall be so done, that even by that the Church shall receive honour, and her power be extended and strengthened. Your ‘little Jewess,’ your ‘butterfly,’ shall be allowed to shine in society, and to take her fill of the pleasure she tasted last year. A few years with the good sisters first will do much for her. When she is properly submissive to those who have a right to direct her, she shall have her own way. I am not afraid.”
“And her brothers: what are they to be?”
“After ten, or even seven years with the good fathers, they shall choose for themselves.”