hake Baron Trigault's
faith in his friend. "But the marquis has an income of a hundred
and fifty or two hundred thousand francs," said he; "that is an
all-sufficient justification. With his fortune and his name, he is in a
position to choose his wife from among all the heiresses of France. Why
should he address his attentions in particular to the woman you love?
Ah! if he were poor--if his fortune were impaired--if he felt the need
of regilding his escutcheon, like my son-in-law----"

He paused; there was a rap at the door. The baron called out: "Come
in," and a valet appeared, and informed his master that the Marquis de
Valorsay wished to speak with him.

It was the enemy! Pascal's features were distorted with rage; but he did
not stir--he did not utter a word. "Ask the marquis into the next room,"
said the baron. "I will join him there at once." Then as the servant
retired, the baron turned to Pascal and said: "Well, M. Ferailleur, do
you divine my intentions?"

"I think so, monsieur. You probably intend me to hear the conversation
you are going to have with M. de Valorsay."

"Exactly. I shall leave the door open, and you can listen."

This word, "listen," was uttered without bitterness, or even reproach;
and yet Pascal could not help blushing and hanging his head. "I wish to
prove to you that your suspicions are without foundation," pursued
the baron. "Rest assured that I shall prove this conclusively. I will
conduct the conversation in the form of a cross-examination, and after
the marquis's departure, you will be obliged to confess that you were
wrong."

"Or you, that I am right?"

"So be it. Any one is liable to be mistaken, and I am not obstinate."

He was about to leave the room, when Pascal detained him. "I scarcely
know how to testify my gratitude even now, monsieur, and yet--if I
dared--if I did not fear to abuse your kindness, I should ask one more
favor."

"Speak, Monsieur Ferailleur."

"It is this, I do not know the Marquis de Valorsay; and if, instead of
leaving the door wide open, you would partially close it, I should hear
as distinctly, and I could also see him."

"Agreed," replied the baron. And, opening the door, he passed into the
dining-room, with his right hand cordially extended, and saying, in his
most genial tones: "Excuse me, my dear friend, for keeping you waiting.
I received your letter this morning, and I was expecting you, but some
unexpected business required my attention ju