Michaud and Olivier sat down again disappointed, while Therese and Laurent experienced such keen joy that they felt like fainting under the influence of the sudden rush of blood that beat in their bosoms.
Grivet who felt vexed at not having been believed on trust, thought the moment had arrived to regain his infallibility, by completing the unfinished sentence.

While every one was endeavouring to supply the missing words, he exclaimed: "It is quite clear.

I can read the whole phrase in the eyes of the lady.
It is not necessary for her to write on the table to make me understand; a mere look suffices.

She means to say: "Therese and Laurent have been very kind to me." Grivet, on this occasion, had cause to be proud of his imagination, for all the company were of his opinion; and the guests began to sing the praises of the married couple, who were so good for the poor lady.
"It is certain," old Michaud gravely remarked, "that Madame Raquin wishes to bear testimony to the tender affection her children lavish on her, and this does honour to the whole family." Then, taking up his dominoes again, he added: "Come, let us continue.

Where were we?
Grivet was about to play the double-six, I think." Grivet played the double six, and the stupid, monotonous game went on.
The paralysed woman, cut up by frightful despair, looked at her hand, which had just betrayed her.