Page 714 - les-miserables

she paused, remained standing there motionless, forgetful
of her broom and of the entire universe, occupied in gazing
at that star which was blazing at the bottom of her pocket.
It was during one of these periods of contemplation that
the Thenardier joined her. She had gone in search of Cosette
at her husband’s orders. What was quite unprecedented, she
neither struck her nor said an insulting word to her.
‘Cosette,’ she said, almost gently, ‘come immediately.’
An instant later Cosette entered the public room.
The stranger took up the bundle which he had brought
and untied it. This bundle contained a little woollen gown,
an apron, a fustian bodice, a kerchief, a petticoat, woollen
stockings, shoes—a complete outfit for a girl of seven years.
All was black.
‘My child,’ said the man, ‘take these, and go and dress
yourself quickly.’
Daylight was appearing when those of the inhabitants of
Montfermeil who had begun to open their doors beheld a
poorly clad old man leading a little girl dressed in mourn-
ing, and carrying a pink doll in her arms, pass along the
road to Paris. They were going in the direction of Livry.
It was our man and Cosette.
No one knew the man; as Cosette was no longer in rags,
many did not recognize her. Cosette was going away. With
whom? She did not know. Whither? She knew not. All that
she understood was that she was leaving the Thenardier
tavern behind her. No one had thought of bidding her fare-
well, nor had she thought of taking leave of any one. She was
leaving that hated and hating house.

714 Les Miserables