Nana did not seem surprised at sight of her.

She simply asked her why she hadn't come into the bedroom.
"I heard voices," replied the old lady.

"I thought you had company." Mme Maloir, a respectable-looking and mannerly woman, was Nana's old friend, chaperon and companion.

Mme Lerat's presence seemed to fidget her at first.

Afterward, when she became aware that it was Nana's aunt, she looked at her with a sweet expression and a die-away smile.