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228 creak. I understood that they were taking the trunks away. Juliette sat on my lap.

"My poor little dear," she cried, "you suffer because I leave so soon. You should not feel hurt. . . be sensible. Besides, I'll come back shortly and stay a long time. Don't act so. I'll come back. I promise you. I'll bring Spy along. I'll also bring a horse to ride on, yes? You'll see how well your little wifie rides on horseback. Now embrace me, my Jean! Why don't you embrace me? Come on, Jean! Good bye! I adore you! Good bye!"

It was growing dark when Mother Le Gannec came into my bedroom. She lit the lamp and gently approached.

"Friend Mintie! Friend Mintié!"

I lifted my eyes; she was so sad, there breathed such merciful pity from her that I threw myself into her arms.

"Ah! Mother Le Gannec! Mother Le Gannec!" I sobbed. "That is what is killing me!"

Mother Le Gannec murmured:

"Friend Mintie, why don't you pray to the merciful Lord? That will relieve you."