If it isn't enough to pay for the cushions, I'll write to Cousin Kate, and maybe she will lend me the rest." Madame gathered up the handful of coin, and slowly rose.

"It is only a step to the carriage-house," she said.

"If you will kindly ring for Berthe to bring a lamp we will look to see how much damage has been done." It was an unusual procession that filed down the garden walk a few minutes later.

First came Berthe, in her black dress and white cap, holding a lamp high above her head, and screwing her forehead into a mass of wrinkles as she peered out into the surrounding darkness.

After her came madame, holding up her dress and stepping daintily along in her high-heeled little slippers.