But I fear me it will not be before next year." Wolfe made a gesture of irritation and impatience.
"Have we not yet had enough of procrastination ?" he questioned bitterly.

"Will England never learn the lesson which her reverses should have taught her?
What boots the victory we have gained here, if it be not the stepping stone to lead us to Quebec ?" "Who speaks of Quebec ?" asked a clear, musical voice at the half-open door; and Julian sprang to his feet, exclaiming as he did so: "It is Madame Drucour! she has come every day to see and inquire after you." Hearing the sound of her name, the lady pushed open the door and entered--a graceful, stately figure clothed all in black; her beautiful face worn and pale, and trouble lurking in the depths of her hazel eyes; yet calm and serene and noble of aspect as she moved forward and held out a slim white hand to the patient.
"You are better, Monsieur ?" she asked, in her full, rich tones.

"I trust that the suffering is less than it was.

The fever, I can see, has abated somewhat." Wolfe carried the hand he held to his lips.

In common with all the officers who had made her acquaintance, Wolfe had come to have a very high opinion of Madame Drucour.
"I thank you, gracious lady, for your condescension in asking.