The next day they got a nurse from Orleans, but though the strain of nursing was taken off Adrienne, her aunt was never happy unless she was in her room. In a few days she recovered in a certain measure, but lay quietly in bed and never wished to move. She recovered her speech, but used wrong words, and only Adrienne seemed to understand her. The girl had adapted herself instantly to the sick-room's requirements. She was always bright and smiling in her aunt's presence; always gentle and tender with her. The workmen were sent away, for their noise fretted the invalid; but as she grew stronger, life resumed its normal state, and before very long everyone became accustomed to her condition. Orleans was not to be thought of. Adrienne unpacked the many trunks she had packed, and rather sadly rearranged her aunt's room, putting out many of her pretty treasures which had been packed to go away with her. The Count continued to stay at the farm with his small boy, but he was up at the Château every day. One day, he insisted upon Adrienne riding out with him. "You must have more exercise. It is good for you," he said. And when Adrienne came out into the fresh air which was slightly touched with frost, and cantered along the lanes, the pink flush came into her cheeks and the light into her eyes. "It is delicious," she said. "How long are we going on like this?" Guy asked her. "It is not right that you should spend your days in a sick-room. The doctor says she may be many months in this state." "How can I leave her?" Adrienne asked. "What does your uncle say?" "He wanted to come over, but Dr. Caillot advises not. He says she ought to be kept as quiet as possible and to see no fresh people. Uncle Derrick is willing that I should stay on for the present." "And what do you feel about it?" "Do you want to get rid of me?" Adrienne asked him laughingly. "I feel that at present I cannot leave Aunt Cecily. I don't believe she'd get well at all, if she worried; and she worries whenever I am long away from her." "Do you think the child about the house would disturb her?" "How could he—the darling! The patter of his feet up and down the stairs and his laugh and chatter would be music in our ears. I hope you and he will come soon. It is your home, not ours, remember! I could take Aunt Cecily into Orleans when she gets better." "She will never be turned out by me," said Guy with emphasis. "Well, can't we live together, one happy family?" said Adrienne lightly. "I will stay a few weeks longer. Aunt Cecily will be up and about by then, I hope." But Guy knew better. He said nothing, for he would not damp her hopes. And in a few days' time he and his small boy took possession of the Château. Alain and his nurse were put into two cheerful rooms at the end of the long corridor away from the Countess, so that she should not be disturbed.