"You have cared for our patient admirably, and you
will find that his mother is eternally grateful to you."
And indeed the Countess did press his hands and expressed with noble
simplicity her gratitude to everyone for all that had been done for
her son.
The doctors were to return in the evening. Albert begged his mother to
take a little rest.
"If I have your word, dear mama, I declare to you I will go to sleep,
I am so relieved to know your anxiety is over."
"I will take care of your mother, Albert," said Esperance. "You take
your medicine and go to sleep. Genevieve has promised to come and
fetch me if you do not."
The Countess smiled as she went out with the young girl. She looked at
the pretty face, which was still scarred by the marks of her fall. She
listened, trembling with terror, but admiring the coolness and courage
of her adored son, while the little artist gave her an account of the
accident. Then she sent for Maurice and Jean Perliez that she might
thank them repeatedly. She loved them all for their goodness and
simplicity.
"The maid is at your disposal, Madame, I will send her to you." said
Esperance. She bent to kiss the Countess's hand, but found her face
caressed by it.
"My daughter, my dear daughter," said the Countess, kissing her
tenderly.
Esperance went away mystified, and in a daze.
In eight days, Doctor Chartier left them. The invalid was now
convalescent, but still confined--to his room for several days.
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