And her happy equilibrium of mind had ever guided and saved her, in such wise that she willingly listened to her natural instinct, saying, with her pleasant laugh, that this was, after all, her best adviser.

She rejected two offers of marriage, and on the second occasion, as Guillaume pressed her to accept, she grew astonished, and inquired if he had had enough of her in the house.

She found herself very comfortable, and she rendered service there.

So why should she leave and run the risk of being less happy elsewhere, particularly as she was not in love with anybody?
Then, by degrees, the idea of a marriage between Marie and Guillaume presented itself; and indeed what could have been more reasonable and advantageous for all?
If Guillaume had not mated again it was for his sons' sake, because he feared that by introducing a stranger to the house he might impair its quietude and gaiety.

But now there was a woman among them who already showed herself maternal towards the boys, and whose bright youth had ended by disturbing his own heart.