The terrible idea that he was writing his will flashed across her; she shuddered, and yet had not strength to utter a word.

Next day M.Morrel seemed as calm as ever, went into his office as usual, came to his breakfast punctually, and then, after dinner, he placed his daughter beside him, took her head in his arms, and held her for a long time against his bosom.

In the evening, Julie told her mother, that although he was apparently so calm, she had noticed that her father's heart beat violently.

The next two days passed in much the same way.

On the evening of the 4th of September, M.Morrel asked his daughter for the key of his study.