Count Tristan was about to hand Bertha into the carriage which the
countess had entered, when the young girl paused, with her tiny foot
upon the step. She shrank from a discussion with her aunt who was in a
high state of indignation. Madame de Gramont's wrath was not only
directed against Gaston de Bois, but she was exasperated by Bertha's
interference just when the haughty lady had been on the point of making
him feel that he would no longer be ranked among the number of her
friends and welcome visitors. While Bertha's foot still rested upon the
step, she glanced over her shoulder and saw Gaston standing beside
Maurice. Her decision was made. She looked into the carriage and said,--

"You will have the kindness to excuse me from accompanying you, aunt; I
will take advantage of the beautiful day and walk home with Maurice."

Having uttered these words, she drew back quickly and tripped away
before the answer of the countess could reach her. Maurice walked on one
side of her, and what was more natural than that Gaston should occupy
the place on the other side?

For a brief space all three pursued their way in silence, then Bertha
made an effort to converse. Maurice answered in monosyllables and those
were followed by deep sighs. Gaston seemed to be hardly more master of
language, though his taciturnity had a different origin; it was
occasioned by the unexpected delight of finding himself walking beside
Bertha, who constantly lifted her sweet face inquiringly to his, as
though to ask why he had no words.

Maurice was in a perplexed state of mind which caused him a nervous
longing for entire seclusion. Even sympathy, sympathy from those who
were as dear to him as Bertha and Gaston, jarred upon his highly-strung
nerves.

All at once, he stopped and said,--

"Gaston, I will leave you to conduct Bertha home; I fancy you will not
object to the trust," and trying to simulate a smile, he walked away.

Gaston, left alone with Bertha, quickly regained his power of speech.
They were passing the Capitol; how lovely the grounds looked in their
spring attire! The day, too, was delicious. The opportunity of seeing
Bertha alone was a happiness that might not soon return.

"These grounds are Mademoiselle Madeleine's favorite promenade,"
remarked M. de Bois. "Have you ever seen them?"

Bertha made no reply, but she moved toward the gate and they entered. A
short silence ensued, then she said abruptly, "What an heroic character