They placed her between them, as if she were necessary to their existence.

They caused her to be present at their meals, and at all their interviews.

When she signified the desire to retire to her bedroom, they feigned not to understand.

She was only of use to interrupt their private conversations, and had no right to live apart.
At eight o'clock, Laurent went to his studio, Therese descended to the shop, while the paralyzed woman remained alone in the dining-room until noon; then, after lunch, she found herself without company again until six o'clock.

Frequently, during the day, her niece ran upstairs, and, hovering round her, made sure she did not require anything.