"Thirteen!" exclaimed the countess; "unfortunate child!"
"Unfortunate? no.This passion will save her."
"From what?" asked Madame de Montcornet.
"From the fate which overtakes nearly all the girls of her age in these parts.Since I have taught her cleanliness she is much less ugly than she was; in fact, there is something odd and wild about her which attracts men.She is so changed that you would hardly recognize her.
The son of that infamous innkeeper of the Grand-I-Vert, Nicolas, the worst fellow in the whole district, wants her; he hunts her like game.
Though I can't believe that Monsieur Rigou, who changes his servant-
girls every year or two is persecuting such a little fright, it is quite certain that Nicolas Tonsard is.Justin told me so.It would be a dreadful fate, for the people of this valley actually live like beasts; but Justin and our two servants and I watch her carefully.
Therefore don't be uneasy, madame; she never goes out alone except in broad daylight, and then only as far as the gate of Conches.If by chance she fell into an ambush, her feeling for Justin would give her strength and wit to escape; for all women who have a preference in their hearts can resist a man they hate."
"It was about her that I came," said the countess, "and I little thought my visit could be so useful to you.That child, you know, can't remain thirteen; and she will probably grow better-looking."
"Oh, madame," replied Olympe, smiling, "I am quite sure of Justin.
What a man! what a heart!-- If you only knew what a depth of gratitude he feels for his general, to whom, he says, he owes his happiness.He is only too devoted; he would risk his life for him here, as he would on the field of battle, and he forgets sometimes that he will one day be father of a family."
"Ah! I once regretted losing you," said the countess, with a glance that made Olympe blush; "but I regret it no longer, for I see you happy.What a sublime and noble thing is married love!" she added, speaking out the thought she had not dared express before the abbe.