tion be extended toward you, Mademoiselle Montalais, and for which, indeed, so many reasons exist," added Raoul, bowing, "I do not see that the same reasons exist why Mademoiselle de la Valliere should be similarly protected."
"But, Monsieur Raoul," said Louise innocently, "there is no difference in the matter, and I do not see why I should not tell it you myself; it was Monsieur Malicorne who obtained it for me."
Raoul remained for a moment almost stupefied, asking himself if they were trifling with him; he then turned round to interrogate Malicorne, but he had been hurried away by Montalais, and was already at some distance from them. Mile, de la Valliere attempted to follow her friend, but Eaoul, with gentle authority, detained her.
"Louise, one word only, I beg."
"But, Monsieur Raoul," said Louise, blushing, "we are alone. Every one has left. They will become anxious, and will be looking for us."
"Fear nothing," said the young man, smiling, "we are neither of sufficient importance for our absence to be remarked."
"But I have my duty to perform. Monsieur Raoul."
"Do not be alarmed, I am acquainted with the usages of the court; you will not be on duty until to-morrow; a few minutes are at your disposal, which will enable you to give me the information I am about to have the honor to ask you."
"How serious you are. Monsieur Raoul!" said Louise.
"Because the circumstance is a serious one. Are you listening?"
"I am listening; I would only repeat, monsieur, that we are quite alone."
"You are right," said Raoul; and, offering her his hand, he led the young girl into the gallery adjoining the reception-room, the windows of which looked out upon the courtyard. Every one hurried toward the middle window, which had a balcony outside, from which all the details of the slow and formal preparations for departure could be seen. Raoul opened one of the side windows, and then, being alone with Louise, said to her:
"You know, Louise, that from my childhood I have regarded you as my sister, as one who has been the confidnate of all my troubles, to whom I have intrusted all my hopes."
"Yes, Monsieur Raoul," she answered softly; "yes, Monsieur Raoul, I know that."
