of absolute ruin. A man may be placed in positions where he is
forced into actions from which he would otherwise shrink; this was my
case. I obtained from Maurice a power of attorney which he thinks I have
never used,--but--but--impelled by my troubles, and without his
knowledge, I have been induced,--women cannot understand business
matters; it was a course that could not be avoided,--I have been forced
to compromise the interest of Maurice; I have been compelled to mortgage
his estate so heavily that it is valueless unless this road augments its
present worth. Do you not see what is at stake? Will you not exert
yourself to save me, to save Maurice from the mortification of knowing
that I have committed an action which might be misconstrued,--which
might be condemned,--might be considered,"--the count paused, overcome
with shame.

Madeleine hesitated; for the sake of Maurice she could endure to be
misunderstood,--she could submit to place herself in a position which
humbled and compromised her.

The count saw that her resolution was shaken, and he did not lose his
advantage.

"Remember that Maurice is beginning life; he has imbibed the sanguine
spirit of the land in which he has lately lived. What a sudden and
crushing blow to him will be the revelation that awaits him! Can _you_
bear to contemplate its effect? _I_ cannot. Answer, Madeleine; he has
suffered much, much for _your_ sake: will you, will you make him suffer
more?"

"No!" answered Madeleine, firmly. "Come what may, I will see Lord
Linden, and obtain his influence with his sister _if I can_."

"There spoke the Madeleine of other days!"

Madeleine interrupted him: "Spare me your praises; I do not deserve
them. If Lord Linden is here, as you say, I will see him at once."

"That is right; you are prompt as ever. I will take my leave. It may not
be well for him to see me here. Success to you, Madeleine! But you
always command success. It is a condition of your existence."

The count withdrew, and Madeleine, with a sad countenance, only waited
until the street door closed upon him, to keep her promise and seek Lord
Linden.

CHAPTER XXVIII.

LORD LINDEN'S DISCOVERY.

Lord Linden, who had resolved not to leave the house until he had
discovered his incognita, waited with laudable patience, closely
scanning every lady who passed through the adjoining apartments. His
position did not command a view of the workroom. An hour passed, and he
began t