"Yes, dear aunt."
"I do not think I will leave Marthe to-day, the pain is so bad; but I do not like to disappoint old Mère Leroux. No one's hens are laying but mine, and I promised her an egg for her fête day. She is old, and old people are like children, and very little pleases or makes them unhappy."
Aline folded her work.
"Do you mean you would like me to go? But of course, dear aunt."
"If you will, my child. Take your warm cloak, and be back before sundown; and—Aline——"
"Yes," said Aline at the door.
"If you see Mathieu Leroux, stop and bid him 'Good-day.' Just say a word or two."
"I do not like Mathieu Leroux," observed Aline, with the old lift of the head.
Mlle Ange flushed a little.
"He has a good heart, I 'm sure he has a good heart, but he is suspicious by nature. Lately Madelon has let fall a hint or two. It does not do, my child, to let people think one is proud, or—or—in any way different."