Gabriel Le Noir was no longer an officer illustrious, a gentleman
noble and distinguished, compassionate and tender; he was a robber
infamous! a villain atrocious, a caitiff ruth, and without remorse!
After breakfast the doctor consented that his young hero, his little
knight-errant, his dear son, should go to the distressed lady and
open the good news to her, while the great Major Greyson, the
warrior invincible, should go around with himself to inspect the
institution.
Traverse immediately repaired to the chamber of Mrs. Le Noir, whom
he found sitting at the window, engaged in some little trifle of
needlework, the same pale, patient woman that she had first appeared
to him.
"Ah, you have come! I read good news upon your smiling face, my
friend! Tell it! I have borne the worst of sorrows! Shall I not have
strength to bear joy?"
Traverse told her all, and then ended by saying:
"Now, dear madame, it is necessary that we leave this place within
two hours, as Major Greyson's regiment leaves New Orleans for
Washington to-morrow, and it is advisable that you go under our
protection. We can get you a female attendant from the St. Charles."
"Oh, I can be ready in ten minutes! Bless you, I have no fine lady's
wardrobe to pack up!" replied Mrs. Le Noir, with a smile.
Traverse bowed and went out to procure a carriage from the next
village.
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