"It is the fault of your heart, poor little thing. I understand your emotion," writing President Hubert's reply with a firm hand. "Now," added she, "ring for some one, Antonine, so that this letter can be delivered to the officer of the prince without delay." The old servant entered, and was instructed to deliver the letter to the officer. "Now, my little Antonine," said the marquise to the young girl, "there remains one duty to be fulfilled, and I am certain that Sophie will be of my opinion; before the arrival of the prince, you must confess all to your uncle." "What Madeleine says is very right," replied Sophie. "It would have a bad effect if your uncle should not be prepared for the probable intention of the visit of the prince." "Your uncle is very kind and considerate, my dear Antonine," added Madeleine, "and he will forgive a lack of confidence, caused principally, I do not doubt, by your timidity." "You are right, both of you, I know it," said Antonine, "and, besides, I ought not to blush at this confession, for, my God, I loved Frantz without thinking of it, and in spite of myself." "That is why you should hasten to confide in your uncle, my child, for the prince will not delay his visit. But tell me," added the marquise, "because, for reasons of my own, I do not wish to be found here when the prince arrives, can I not enter your chamber from this parlour?" "The corridor into which this door opens," replied Antonine, "leads to my chamber; Sophie knows the way." "Certainly, I will conduct you, Madeleine," replied Sophie, rising with the marquise, who, kissing Antonine tenderly on the forehead, said to her as she pointed to the door of her uncle's chamber, "Go quick, my dear little one, the moments are precious." The young girl threw a glance of affectionate gratitude on the two friends, who, leaving the parlour, followed the corridor on their way to Antonine's chamber, when they saw the old servant coming. He approached and said to Sophie: "Madame, M. Dutertre wishes to speak to you this moment." "My husband! where is he?" "Below, madame, in a carriage at the door; he told the porter to order me to ask you to come down without delay." "That is strange! Why did he not come up?" said Sophie, looking at her friend. "M. Dutertre has something to say to you, madame," said Peter. Madame Dutertre, not a little disquieted, followed him, as she said to the marquise,-- "I shall return immediately, my friend, for I am eager to know the result of the prince's visit to M. Hubert." Madeleine was left alone.