But when, after a tea during which she continued to fence and play the part of happy bride, she went out into the scented garden that was like an old and loving friend, this premonition of something evil left her.

With every step she felt herself greeted and welcomed.

Young flowers as guileless as children waved their green hands.

Heads nodded as she passed.

The old trees that had watched her grow up rustled their leaves in affectionate excitement.