She was quick and eager in the performance of her work, speaking sharply to those who came in contact with her.

Peter Veque, her chief minister, had but a poor time of it in these days; and she spoke an angry word or two to Edmond Greisse.

She had, in truth, spoken no words to Edmond Greisse that were not angry since that ill-starred communication of which he had only given her the half.

To her aunt she was brusque, and almost ill-mannered.
'What is the matter with you, Marie ?' Madame Voss said to her one morning, when she had been snubbed rather rudely by her niece.
Marie in answer shook her head and shrugged her shoulders.

'If you cannot put on a better look before M.Urmand comes, I think he will hardly hold to his bargain,' said Madame Voss, who was angry.
'Who wants him to hold to his bargain ?' said Marie sharply.