ld him several wonderful
cures he had effected, and the Duke became very anxious to see him."

"And did the stern Matheus consent to go to your father's house?"

"He was anxious to do so, and as his house is not far from ours, I in a
few minutes was able to introduce him into the patient's room; and would
you believe it, a few of the simplest remedies possible exerted a great
effect. The agitation of my sister was calmed--her cough arrested--and
this evening you see her dancing and waltzing, pretty and gay as
possible."

The conversation of the three friends was soon interrupted by the
entrance of two other of the personages of our story. The Prince de
Maulear entered with the _Marquise_ on his arm, seeking in this retired
spot some repose from the fatigues of the ball, and a less heated air
than that of the ball-rooms. Aminta leaned heavily on the arm of the
Prince when she saw Monte-Leone thus unexpectedly. She had observed him
during the evening, and in the course of the winter they had more than
once met together. The Count, however, had never referred to their
parting at Sorrento. Far from seeking her out, Monte-Leone seemed to
avoid her. Satisfied with saluting her respectfully as often as they
met, the Count used always to leave her. This reserved and proper
conduct was sufficiently explained by the old rivalry of the Marquis de
Maulear and the Count. Recollection of this rivalry, without doubt,
caused in Aminta's mind the great emotion she always felt when in the
presence of Monte-Leone.

"What," said the Prince, when he saw the Count, "are you here, my dear
colleague? This chance delights me. My daughter," said he to the young
Marquise, "let me introduce to you the Count Monte-Leone, a great
traveller, to whom I am indebted for the best chapter of my Italian
voyages; all action, I will read it to you one of these days! Ah! but
for the Count, I would never have perfected it."

"Monsieur," said Monte-Leone, with a low bow, "I have the honor of the
_Marquise_'s acquaintance; and Signora Rovero, her mother, deigned
sometimes to receive me at her house before the marriage of the Marquis
de Maulear and Madame--"

The Count as he spoke felt as if his heart would burst. The Prince,
however, did not perceive it.

"You know my daughter," said the Count, "yes, you have not called on
her, you did not seek to see me, who am so glad to see you. This is bad,
Count--you will not, however, remain away any longer, and I