On the morrow Agathe and Madame Hochon appeared at Flore’s bedside, and repeated to the sick girl and to Rouget, the excellent sentiments expressed by Philippe.  Throughout Issoudun the colonel was talked of as a man of noble character, especially because of his conduct towards Flore.  For a month, the Rabouilleuse heard Goddet, her doctor, the individual who has paramount influence over a sick person, the respectable Madame Hochon, moved by religious principle, and Agathe, so gentle and pious, all representing to her the advantages of a marriage with Rouget.  And when, attracted by the idea of becoming Madame Rouget, a dignified and virtuous bourgeoisie, she grew eager to recover, so that the marriage might speedily be celebrated, it was not difficult to make her understand that she would not be allowed to enter the family of the Rougets if she intended to turn Philippe from its doors.

“Besides,” remarked the doctor, “you really owe him this good fortune.  Max would never have allowed you to marry old Rouget.  And,” he added in her ear, “if you have children, you can revenge Max, for that will disinherit the Bridaus.”

Two months after the fatal duel in February, 1823, the sick woman, urged by those about her, and implored by Rouget, consented to receive Philippe, the sight of whose scars made her weep, but whose softened and affectionate manner calmed her.  By Philippe’s wish they were left alone together.

“My dear child,” said the soldier.  “It is I, who, from the start, have advised your marriage with my uncle; if you consent, it will take place as soon as you are quite recovered.”

“So they tell me,” she replied.

“Circumstances have compelled me to give you pain, it is natural therefore that I should wish to do you all the good I can.  Wealth, respect, and a family position are worth more than what you have lost.  You wouldn’t have been that fellow’s wife long after my uncle’s death, for I happen to know, through friends of his, that he intended to get rid of you.  Come, my dear, let us understand each other, and live happily.  You shall be my aunt, and nothing more than my aunt.  You will take care that my uncle does not forget me in his will; on my side, you shall see how well I will have you treated in the marriage contract.  Keep calm, think it over, and we will talk of it later.  All sensible people, indeed the whole town, urge you to put an end to your illegal position; no one will blame you for receiving me.  It is well understood in the world that interests go before feelings.  By the day of your marriage you will be handsomer than ever.  The pallor of illness has given you an air of distinction, and on my honor, if my uncle did not love you so madly, you should be the wife of Colonel Bridau.”