Then, on the threshold of the great door, at the top of the steps which went down into the Place du Cloitre, she tottered.

Had she not really arrived at the summit of her happiness?
Was not it there that the joy of her life, being perfected, was to end?
With a last effort she raised herself as much as possible, that she might put her lips upon the lips of Felicien.

And in that kiss of love she passed away for ever.
But her death was without sadness.

Monseigneur, with his habitual movement of pastoral benediction, aided this pure soul to free itself from the frail body.

He had regained his calmness, and had once more found in the fulfillment of his sacred calling the desired-for peace.
The Huberts, unconscious of what had taken place, were still kneeling, grateful for the pardon at last granted them, and feeling as if re-entering into existence.