The ladies were singing all together as they twisted their handkerchiefs.
"The child that is lost is the child of God's love." The singer was greatly complimented and she resumed her seat affecting to be quite broken down.

She asked for something to drink because she always put too much feeling into that song and she was constantly afraid of straining her vocal chords.

Everyone at the table now had their eyes fixed on Lantier who, quietly seated beside Coupeau, was devouring the last piece of Savoy cake which he dipped in his glass of wine.

With the exception of Virginie and Madame Boche none of the guests knew him.

The Lorilleuxs certainly scented some underhand business, but not knowing what, they merely assumed their most conceited air.