Her very sorrow was sacred.

She lifted up her head again, and saw that there was a calm upon her face, which was better than pride.

Instinctively she knew that none but idiots could look at her with contempt, or the pity which is so near it; and she went out into her little world again, sad at heart, but steadfast and at peace.

So the days passed on, and grew into weeks, and the time for their leaving Cacouna came very near.

It had been delayed more than a week beyond the month on which Mrs.
Costello had first counted for security; but on the very eve of their departure she had overcome her anxiety, and was secretly glad to make the most of every little excuse for lingering yet another and another day at the cottage.
It was now Monday evening, and on Wednesday they were to start.