The project of marriage was still entertained, but no one ventured to speak about the publication of the bans.

To the most touching endearments of her betrothed, the young fiancee responded with disquisitions on the vital principle.

Her visits to the Renaults' house were paid less to the living than to the dead.
All the arguments they put in use to cure her of a foolish hope served only to throw her into a profound melancholy.

Her beautiful complexion grew pale, the brilliancy of her glance died away.

Undermined by a hidden disorder, she lost the amiable vivacity which had appeared to be the sparkling of youth and joy.