Page:Helen Leah Reed - Napoleons young neighbour.djvu/206

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178
NAPOLEON'S YOUNG NEIGHBOR

at Plantation House," he said, after one of her visits to the wife of the Governor. "Tell me, does she ask about your visits to Longwood?"

"There, that is just the kind of thing she asks me. I am sure to be questioned what we say and do in your presence;" and beyond this Betsy would give Napoleon little satisfaction.

"Who is the most beautiful woman on the island?" he asked on another occasion.

"Madame Bertrand," replied Betsy, never at a loss for an answer, "is more beautiful than any one I have ever seen. Every one else seems insignificant beside her. Why, when my father saw her on the Northumberland he was very much struck by her. Her features may not be strictly beautiful, but her expression is intellectual. Besides, her bearing is so queenlike and dignified!"

"But don't you think Madame Montholon pretty?"

"No," responded Betsy unhesitatingly, in spite of the fact that she had much regard for Madame Montholon.

"Marchand," cried Napoleon, apparently