Gervaise, feeling rather depressed, spoke in a low voice as she directed them to their places.

But she suddenly noticed that, as Madame Goujet had not come, a seat would remain empty--the one next to Madame Lorilleux.
"We are thirteen!" said she, deeply affected, seeing in that a fresh omen of the misfortune with which she had felt herself threatened for some time past.
The ladies already seated rose up looking anxious and annoyed.

Madame Putois offered to retire because according to her it was not a matter to laugh about; besides she would not touch a thing, the food would do her no good.

As to Boche, he chuckled.

He would sooner be thirteen than fourteen; the portions would be larger, that was all.
"Wait!" resumed Gervaise.