live genteelly, should she ever wish to seperate from us, and will be a handsome provision for pocket expenses, if she does us the favor of continuing under our protection."
"Will you permit me, (said the Count, eagerly) to add another two hundred to her income?" "Indeed I will not, (replied the Marquis;) I think myself as much the guardian of Matilda's honor and delicacy as of her person: no young man shall boast any claims upon her, nor shall she be humbled by receiving favors, which, if known, might subject her to censure—say no more, my dear Count, (added he, observing he was about to reply,) the Marchioness will not have her protégée under any obligations but to herself." "Shall I be sincere with you, Marquis?" (demanded the Count.) "Doubtless, my Lord, you may, and assure yourself of my secrecy, if necessary." "Well then, (resumed the Count) I confess to you, that with the Marchioness's protégée, as you call her, I should be the happiest of men: I feel, and ac-
