She thus maintained her heroic demeanour with childish stubbornness, smiling at the young man each time he gave her a glance of loving anxiety.

At last, when the moon hid itself, she gave way in the sheltering darkness.

Silvere felt her leaning more heavily on his arm.
He now had to carry the flag, and hold her round the waist to prevent her from stumbling.

Nevertheless she still made no complaint.
"Are you very tired, poor Miette ?" Silvere asked her.
"Yea, a little tired," she replied in a weary tone.
"Would you like to rest a bit ?" She made no reply; but he realised that she was staggering.

He thereupon handed the flag to one of the other insurgents and quitted the ranks, almost carrying the girl in his arms.