On the pretext that the light hurt the invalid's sight, she shaded the window, and so hid the hollows under her eyes and the wan looks that must have betrayed the forced nature of her cheerfulness.

As a rule Madame Royaume's eyes, quickened by love, were keen; but this day she slept much, and the night was fairly advanced when Anne, in the act of preparing to lie down, turned and saw her mother sitting erect in the bed.
The old woman's eyes were strangely bright.

Her face wore an intent expression which arrested her daughter where she stood.
"Mother, what is it ?" she cried.
"Listen!" Madame Royaume answered.

"What is that ?" "I hear nothing," Anne said, hoping to soothe her.

And she approached the bed.
"I hear much," her mother retorted.