She returned home struck by death, and wasted away in a short time at the Chalet.

Her death at least protected her reputation.

The illness that Monsieur Mignon alleged to be the cause of her absence, and the doctor's order which sent her to Nice were now generally believed.

Up to the last moment the mother hoped to save her daughter's life.

Bettina was her darling and Modeste was the father's.