He's a handsome fellow, sure
to make his way in the world, for he's not wanting in spirit. As
I never attempt to hide the truth, I must confess that he's a
trifle dissipated; but his heart is all right, and a charming
little wife would soon turn him from the error of his ways, and
he'd become the pearl of husbands." He paused, passed his
forefinger three or four times between his collar and his neck,
and then, in a half-strangled voice, he added: "Mademoiselle
Marguerite, I have the honor to ask for your hand in marriage on
behalf of Lieutenant Gustave de Fondege, my son."
There was a dangerous gleam of anger in Mademoiselle Marguerite's
eyes, as she coldly replied: "I am honored by your request,
monsieur; but my future is already decided."
Some seconds elapsed before M. de Fondege could recover his powers
of speech. "This is a piece of foolishness," he faltered, at last
with singular agitation." Let me hope that you will reconsider the
matter. And if Gustave doesn't please you, we will find some one
better. But under no circumstances will Chalusse's old comrade
ever desert you. I shall send Madame de Fondege to see you this
evening. She's a good woman and you will understand each other.
Come, answer me, what do you say to it?"
His persistence irritated the poor girl beyond endurance, and to
put an end to the painful scene, she at last asked: "Would you not
like to look--for the last time--at M.
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