The shutters had been closed against the sun, and it had become cool and pleasant.

Here and there, among the copper utensils, and wherever a chance ray made a gleam of light, the magpie was hopping about, uttering short, piercing cries.
In the recess of the niche containing the colored prints, sat the old man Vincart, dozing, in his usual supine attitude, his hands spread out, his eyelids drooping, his mouth half open.

At the sound of the door, his eyes opened wide.

He rather guessed at, than saw, the entrance of the young girl, and his pallid lips began their accustomed refrain: "Reine! Rei-eine!" Reine flew impetuously toward the paralytic old man, threw herself on her knees before him, sobbing bitterly, and covered his hands with kisses.

Her caresses were given in a more respectful, humble, contrite manner than ever before.
"Oh! father--father!" faltered she; "I loved you always, I shall love you now with all my heart and soul!".