At last she came back, and sank, with a nervous, irresponsible little laugh, on the bench. And then, for the moment, they all three laughed together.
In the silence that followed, Father Claude moved toward the door.
“I must go out again, M’sieu. It may be that there is further word.”
“Very well, Father. And open your ears for news of the poor boy.”
The priest bowed, and went out. Menard stood in the door watching him, as he walked boldly along the path. After a little he turned. The maid was looking at him, still flushed and smiling.
“Well, Mademoiselle, we can take hope again.”
“You are so brave, M’sieu.” 182
He smiled at her impulsiveness, and looked at her, hardly conscious that he was causing her to blush and lower her eyes.
“And so I am brave, Mademoiselle? It may be that Major Provost and Major d’Orvilliers will not feel so.”
“But they must, M’sieu.”