That there need not be a restraint upon her, the husband and wife were silent, and were touched to tears on seeing her little hand tremble to such a degree that at times it was difficult for her to reach her mouth.

She made use only of her left hand, for her right arm seemed to be fastened to her chest.

When she had finished, she almost broke the cup, which she caught again by an awkward movement of her elbow.
"Have you hurt your arm badly ?" Hubertine asked.

"Do not be afraid, my dear, but show it to me." But as she was about to touch it the child rose up hastily, trying to prevent her, and as in the struggle she moved her arm, a little pasteboard-covered book, which she had hidden under her dress, slipped through a large tear in her waist.

She tried to take it, and when she saw her unknown hosts open and begin to read it, she clenched her fist in anger.
It was an official certificate, given by the Administration des Enfants Assistes in the Department of the Seine.