The two men drove on in silence to Champ-au-Haut.
The priest was shown at once to Mrs. Champney's room. He had not seen her for over a year and was prepared for a great change; but the actual impression of her condition, as she lay motionless on the bed, was a shock. His practised eye told him that the Inevitable was already on the threshold, demanding entrance. He turned to the nurse with a look of inquiry.
"The doctor will be here in a few minutes; I have telephoned for him," she said low in answer. She bent over the bed.
"Mrs. Champney, Father Honoré is here; you wished to see him."
The eyes opened; there was still mental clarity in their outlook. Father Honoré stepped to the bed.
"Is there anything I can do for you, Mrs. Champney?" he asked gently.
"Yes."
Her articulation was indistinct but intelligible.
"In what way?"
She looked at him unwaveringly.