ke. She is self-reliant and fearless. More than that, she is
in love, my good uncle; and a woman will defend her lover as a tigress
defends her young. She will fight to the bitter end before marrying
anyone save Prosper."

"She is worth five hundred thousand francs."

"So she is; and at five per cent we would each have an income of twelve
thousand five hundred francs. But, for all that, you had better take my
advice, and give up Madeleine."

"Never; I swear by Heaven!" exclaimed Clameran. "Rich or poor, she shall
be mine! I first wanted her money, but now I want her; I love her for
herself, Raoul!"

Raoul seemed to be amazed at this declaration of his uncle.

He raised his hands, and started back with astonishment.

"Is it possible," he said, "that you are in love with Madeleine?--you!"

"Yes," replied Louis, sullenly. "Is there anything so very extraordinary
in it?"

"Oh, no, certainly not! only this sentimental view of the matter
explains your strange behavior. Alas, you love Madeleine! Then, my
venerable uncle, we might as well surrender at once."

"Why so?"

"Because you know the axiom, 'When the heart is interested the head is
lost.' Generals in love always lose their battles. The day is not far
off when your infatuation of Madeleine will make you sell us both for
a smile. And, mark my words, she is shrewd, and watching us as only an
enemy can watch."

With a forced laugh Clameran interrupted his nephew.

"Just see how you fire up for no cause," he said; "you must dislike the
charming Madeleine very much, if you abuse her in this way."

"She will prove to be our ruin: that is all."

"You might as well be frank, and say you are in love with her yourself."

"I am only in love with her money," replied Raoul, with an angry frown.

"Then what are you complaining of? I shall give you half her fortune.
You will have the money without being troubled with the wife; the profit
without the burden."

"I am not over fifty years old," said Raoul conceitedly. "I can
appreciate a pretty woman better than you."

"Enough of that," interrupted Louis angrily. "The day I relieved your
pressing wants, and brought you to Paris, you promised to follow my
directions, to help me carry out my plan; did you not?"

"Yes; but not the plot you are hatching now! You forget that my liberty,
perhaps my life, is at stake. You may hold the cards, but I must have
the right of advising you."

It was midnight before the accompli