However, we will see." He went up to Madame Gerdy, and, whilst feeling her pulse, examined her carefully; then, with the tip of his finger, he lightly raised her eyelid.
The eye appeared dull, glassy, lifeless.
"Come, judge for yourself; take her hand, speak to her." Noel, trembling all over, did as his friend wished.

He drew near, and, leaning over the bed, so that his mouth almost touched the sick woman's ear, he murmured: "Mother, it is I, Noel, your own Noel.

Speak to me, make some sign, do you hear me, mother ?" It was in vain; she retained her frightful immobility.

Not a sign of intelligence crossed her features.
"You see," said the doctor, "I told you the truth." "Poor woman!" sighed Noel, "does she suffer ?" "Not at present." The nun now rose; and she too came beside the bed.
"Doctor," said she: "all is ready." "Then call the servant, sister, to help us.

We are going to apply a mustard poultice." The servant hastened in.