Monsieur Risler is so kind, I will answer for him.

And Sidonie is very fond of us, too, although since she was married she does seem to neglect her old friends a little.

But we must make allowance for the difference in our positions.

Besides, I never shall forget what she did for me." And, at the thought of what Sidonie had done for her, the little cripple applied herself with even more feverish energy to her work.

Her electrified fingers moved with redoubled swiftness.