half past five
Strange contrast , indeed ! It was pity , an even tender pity which the face and eyes and attitude of this heiress of almost royal wealth seemed to invoke ! The plain black dress which Ernestine wore enhanced the remarkable brilliancy of her complexion ; but as she sat there with her hands folded upon her knees , and her head bowed upon her breast , the young orphan looked very sad and thoughtful . It was half past five when the girl 's governess stole softly into the room and said : `` Will mademoiselle see Mlle. de la Rochaiguë ? '' `` Certainly , my good Laîné , '' replied the girl , startled out of her reverie . `` Why does n't Mlle. de la Rochaiguë come in ? '' The governess went out and returned almost immediately , followed by Mlle. Helena de la Rochaiguë , who made two profound and very ceremonious bows , which the poor child instantly returned , surprised and pained to see a woman of Mlle. Helena 's age approach her with such obsequiousness .