So she never considered Coupeau in this matter, having nothing to reproach herself with as regarded her husband, not even in her thoughts.

But with a hesitating and suffering heart, she would think of the blacksmith.

It seemed to her that the memory of Lantier--that slow possession which she was resuming--rendered her unfaithful to Goujet, to their unavowed love, sweet as friendship.
She passed sad days whenever she felt herself guilty towards her good friend.

She would have liked to have had no affection for anyone but him outside of her family.

It was a feeling far above all carnal thoughts, for the signs of which upon her burning face Virginie was ever on the watch.
As soon as spring came Gervaise often went and sought refuge with Goujet.