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CHAPTER II
FAUCHELEVENT IN
THE PRESENCE OF
A DIFFICULTY
It is the peculiarity of certain persons and certain profes-
sions, notably priests and nuns, to wear a grave and agitated
air on critical occasions. At the moment when Fauchelevent
entered, this double form of preoccupation was imprinted
on the countenance of the prioress, who was that wise and
charming Mademoiselle de Blemeur, Mother Innocente,
who was ordinarily cheerful.
The gardener made a timid bow, and remained at the
door of the cell. The prioress, who was telling her beads,
raised her eyes and said:—
‘Ah! it is you, Father Fauvent.’
This abbreviation had been adopted in the convent.
Fauchelevent bowed again.
‘Father Fauvent, I have sent for you.’
‘Here I am, reverend Mother.’
‘I have something to say to you.’