She took the glass in which the wine sparkled, and at the same moment, the hands of the clock pointing to twelve, she cried loudly like a child, "Health to the New Year! Health to the New Year!" Every guest took a glass, crying joyfully, "Health to the New Year!" and clinked his glass against his neighbor's.

Loulou went in search of her father to drink with him; after he had given her a friendly kiss on her rosy cheek, he regarded her with fatherly pride.

She went to her mother, taking her in her arms and kissing her on both cheeks.

The third person whom she sought was Wilhelm.

They could not exchange words, but her eyes sought his and they both flashed a mutual and joyous recognition.