as it was inexorable: "Do you
think, my good girl, that I could ever have fallen seriously in love
with any one, who had not in character, heart, and mind, much of you?"

"Come, brother," said the girl, smiling--yes, the unfortunate creature
had the strength to smile; "come, brother, you are in a gallant vein
to day. Where did you make the acquaintance of this beautiful young
person?"

"She is only the sister of one of my mates. Her mother is the head
laundress in our common dwelling, and as she was in want of assistance,
and we always take in preference the relations of members of the
association, Mrs. Bertin (that's the mother's name) sent for her
daughter from Lille, where she had been stopping with one of her aunts,
and, for the last five days, she has been in the laundry. The first
evening I saw her, I passed three hours, after work was over, in talking
with her, and her mother and brother; and the next day, I felt that my
heart was gone; the day after that, the feeling was only stronger--and
now I am quite mad about her, and resolved on marriage--according as you
shall decide. Do not be surprised at this; everything depends upon you.
I shall only ask my father and mother's leave, after I have yours."

"I do not understand you, Agricola."

"You know the utter confidence I have in the incredible instinct of your
heart. Many times, you have said to me: 'Agricola, love this person,
love that person, have confidence in that other'--and never yet were you
deceived. Well! you must now render me the same service. You will ask
permission of Mdlle. de Cardoville to absent yourself; I will take you
to the factory: I have spoken of you to Mrs. Benin and her daughter,
as of a beloved sister; and, according to your impression at sight
of Angela, I will declare myself or not. This may be childishness, or
superstition, on my part; but I am so made."

"Be it so," answered Mother Bunch, with heroic courage; "I will see
Mdlle. Angela; I will tell you what I think of her--and that, mind you,
sincerely."

"I know it. When will you come?"

"I must ask Mdlle. de Cardoville what day she can spare sue. I will let
you know."

"Thanks, my good sister!" said Agricola warmly; then he added, with a
smile: "Bring your best judgment with you--your full dress judgment."

"Do not make a jest of it, brother," said Mother Bunch, in a mild, sad
voice; "it is a serious matter, for it concerns the happiness of your
whole life."

At this m