It was in vain Madame the
Directress exclaimed and expostulated at these improprieties. I am
sure I did not hear a word until he spoke. Putting me out of his
arms, he said:"
"I must go, my child; duty calls me."
"Then take me with you; take your poor little one with you, and do
not pull her out of your warm, good heart, or she will wither and
die like a flower torn up by the roots!" I cried, between my sobs
and tears.
"He drew me back to his bosom and whispered:"
"There is but one way in which I can take you with me, my child.
Will you be my wife, little Capitolie?"
"Capitola!" cried Traverse, with another great start.
"Yes! Why? What is the matter now?"
"Why, it is such an odd name, that is all! Pray proceed, Madam."
"We were married the same day, and sailed the third morning
thereafter from Havre for the United States, where we arrived, alas!
only to find the noble gentleman, my Eugene's father, laid in his
grave. After Mr. Le Noir's natural grief was over we settled down
peaceably to our country life at the Hidden House--"
"The Hidden House!" again exclaimed Traverse Rocke.
"Yes! that is another odd name, isn't it? Well, I was very happy. At
first when I understood my real position, I had been afraid that my
husband had married me only from compassion; but he soon proved to
me that his love was as high, as pure and as noble as himself.
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