"None; she spoke only of the good works which constantly occupied her."
Madame du Castellet had found that Eve knew the whole history of Louise's filial devotion.
"Madame," replied the physician, "I persist in believing that Mlle, de La Tour-d'Adam conceals her secret from you. A false shame, without doubt, restrains her; send for her confessor, and have him, if possible, oblige her to tell you the truth."
When the doctor had gone, Madame du Castellet burst into tears. Eve was given up by science, because they [{377}] absolutely would have it that her illness had a mysterious origin.
The confessor was called, although the governess hoped nothing from his intervention. An emotion of profound piety was painted on the features of the man of God when he came out of the invalid's chamber, but Eve, calm and with pious recollection, was praying with her eyes raised to heaven. The young girl made no confidence to Mme. du Castellet, only several hours later--
"Cousin," she said, "Mlle. Louise de Mirefont and Gaston are slow in coming to see me."
It was not the first time that Eve had expressed the same desire; the governess ordered the carriage in order to go for Mlle. de Mirefont.
"Louise, generous Louise," murmured Eve, "I would that my soul could be blended with yours!"
Her heart beat violently as she thought of Gaston's happiness; Eve did not account to herself for her poignant emotion, but she prayed that God would permit her to live for her noble grandfather.
"My loss would be too cruel for him," she murmured, weeping.