"But who (cried Madeline) so able to support her under the pressure of that grief as an affectionate husband."
Agatha shook her head, but did not answer; and Madeline descended to the hall (from the dressing-room of her departed friend, where she had been sitting) to receive Madame D'Alembert, whose carriage at that instant was heard. In the hall Madeline found Father Bertrand and most of the servants assembled, whom the good priest earnestly besought to command their feelings, in order, if possible, to prevent letting Madame D'Alembert know the melancholy event which had happened, until a little prepared for it.
In a few minutes Madame D'Alembert entered, leaning on her woman—a female figure so interesting Madeline had never before seen. To that dignity which excites involuntary respect, she united that light elegance, that harmony of form, which inspires the beholder with mingled pleasure
