And Roncherolle embraced Violette, whose eyes were moist with tears; but this time it was a pleasant emotion which caused them to flow.
Chicotin brought a doctor, who examined the wound, and ordered perfect rest. But in the evening the gout reappeared, and the wounded man said with a sigh:
"The doctor need have no fear, I fancy I shan't move for some time yet."
"I will stay with you faithfully," said Violette; "I will not leave you until you are cured."
"I don't propose to have that, my little neighbor; you will go to sell your flowers as usual, and come here in the evening; even that will be very kind of you."
Georget also asked Monsieur de Roncherolle's permission to come to see him, and he replied, pressing his hand:
"As often as you can, my young friend; a little bit for me, and a great deal for this child,—for whom you will be a pleasant companion, and who will not be sorry to have you."
The next morning the count called early to inquire for the wounded man's health, and told the concierge to tell Violette that someone wished to speak to her.
The girl ran downstairs and said to the count:
"You might have come up to my poor patient's room, monsieur, for he is asleep just now; and as he slept almost none during the night, I hope that he will not wake for some time."