There was only this to do: to possess herself of those wonderful herbs which had been given her Napoleon in his hour of peril.
Dragging herself wearily to the little but by the river, she knocked, and waited.

All was still, and, opening the door, she entered.

Striking a match, she found a candle, lighted it, and then began her search.
Under an old pan on a shelf she found both herbs and powder.

She snatched up a handful of the herbs, and kissed them with joyful heart.
Saved--she was saved! Ah, thank the Blessed Virgin! She would thank her for ever! A horrible sinking sensation seized her.

Turning in dismay, she saw the face of Parpon at the window.