Page 344 - les-miserables

CHAPTER I

THE BEGINNING

OF REPOSE

M. Madeleine had Fantine removed to that infirmary
which he had established in his own house. He confided her
to the sisters, who put her to bed. A burning fever had come
on. She passed a part of the night in delirium and raving. At
length, however, she fell asleep.
On the morrow, towards midday, Fantine awoke. She
heard some one breathing close to her bed; she drew aside
the curtain and saw M. Madeleine standing there and look-
ing at something over her head. His gaze was full of pity,
anguish, and supplication. She followed its direction, and
saw that it was fixed on a crucifix which was nailed to the
wall.
Thenceforth, M. Madeleine was transfigured in Fantine’s
eyes. He seemed to her to be clothed in light. He was ab-
sorbed in a sort of prayer. She gazed at him for a long time
without daring to interrupt him. At last she said timidly:—
‘What are you doing?’
M. Madeleine had been there for an hour. He had been

344 Les Miserables