My
ideas have entirely changed since I have learned to understand and
appreciate your vigorous intellect and nobility of soul. I
thoughtlessly spoke to you in the language which is usually
addressed to young ladies of our rank of life--frivolous beauties,
who are spoiled by vanity and luxury, and who look upon marriage
only as a means of enfranchisement."
His words were disjointed as if emotion choked his utterance. At
times, it seemed as if he could scarcely command his feelings; and
then his voice became so faint and trembling that it was scarcely
intelligible.
However, by allowing him to continue, by listening to what he
said, Mademoiselle Marguerite was encouraging him, even more--
virtually binding herself. She understood that this was the case,
and making a powerful effort, she interrupted him, saying: "I
assure you, Monsieur le Marquis, that I am deeply touched--and
grateful--but I am no longer free."
"Pray, mademoiselle, pray do not reply to-day. Grant me a little
time to overcome your prejudices."
She shook her head, and in a firmer voice, replied: "I have no
prejudices; but for some time past already, my future has been
decided, irrevocably decided."
He seemed thunderstruck, and his manner apparently indicated that
the possibility of a repulse had never entered his mind. His eyes
wandered restlessly from Mademoiselle Marguerite to the
countenance of the old magistrate, who remained as impassive as a
sphinx, and at last they lighted on a newspaper which was lying on
the floor at the young girl's feet.
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