There were no more out-door fetes or dances.

The villagers of Estanquet assembled round their firesides.

Christmas arrived with it games and carol-singing.

Then came the Feast of Lovers, called the Buscou,{4} on the last day of the year, where, in a large chamber, some hundred distaffs were turning, and boys and girls, with nimble fingers, were winding thread of the finest flax.

Franconnette was there, and appointed queen of the games.