Nana danced for joy as she thought of the white dress.

The Lorilleuxs, being godfather and godmother, had promised to provide it, and took care to let everyone in the house know of their present.

Madame Lerat was to give the veil and the cap, Virginie the purse, and Lantier the prayer-book; so that the Coupeaus looked forward to the ceremony without any great anxiety.

Even the Poissons, wishing to give a house-warming, chose this occasion, no doubt on the hatter's advice.

They invited the Coupeaus and the Boches, whose little girl was also going to be confirmed.