At length the mistress thought of stewed pig's back and potatoes, which restored the smiles to every countenance.

Then Virginie entered like a puff of wind, with a strange look on her face.
"You've come just at the right time!" exclaimed Gervaise.

"Mother Coupeau, do show her the bird." And mother Coupeau went a second time and fetched the goose, which Virginie had to take in her hands.

She uttered no end of exclamations.
By Jove! It was heavy! But she soon laid it down on the work-table, between a petticoat and a bundle of shirts.

Her thoughts were elsewhere.
She dragged Gervaise into the back-room.
"I say, little one," murmured she rapidly, "I've come to warn you.
You'll never guess who I just met at the corner of the street.