mposure which are the result of reflection and
calculation? The other, on the contrary, acted most precipitately, as
if he had suddenly come to a determination, and formed a plan on the
impulse of the moment."

Mademoiselle Marguerite reflected.

"That's true," she said, "that's indeed true. Now I recollect the
difference."

"And this is my explanation of it," resumed the magistrate. "'The
Marquis de Valorsay,' I said to myself, 'must have proofs in his
possession that Mademoiselle Marguerite is the count's daughter--written
and conclusive proofs, that is certain--probably a voluntary admission
of the fact from the father. Who can prove that M. de Valorsay does not
possess this acknowledgment? In fact, he must possess it. He hinted it
himself.' Accordingly on hearing of the count's sudden death, he said to
himself, 'If Marguerite was my wife, and if I could prove her to be M.
de Chalusse's daughter, I should obtain several millions.' Whereupon he
consulted his legal adviser who assured him that it would be the best
course he could pursue; and so he came here. You repulsed him, but he
will soon make another assault, you may rest assured of that. And some
day or other he will come to you and say, 'Whether we marry or not, let
us divide.'"

Mademoiselle Marguerite was amazed. The magistrate's words seemed to
dispel the mist which had hitherto hidden the truth from view. "Yes,"
she exclaimed, "yes, you are right, monsieur."

He was silent for a moment, and then he resumed: "I understand M. de
Fondege's motive less clearly; but still I have some clue. He had not
questioned the servants. That is evident from the fact that on his
arrival here he believed you to be the sole legatee. He was also aware
that M. de Chalusse had taken certain precautions we are ignorant of,
but which he is no doubt fully acquainted with. What you told him about
your poverty amazed him, and he immediately evinced a desire to atone
for the count's neglect with as much eagerness as if he were the cause
of this negligence himself. And, indeed, judging by the agitation he
displayed when he was imploring you to become his son's wife, one might
almost imagine that the sight of your misery awakened a remorse which he
was endeavoring to quiet. Now, draw your own conclusions."

The wretched girl looked questioningly at the magistrate as if she
hesitated to trust the thoughts which his words had awakened in her
mind. "Then you think, monsieur," she said