[Illustration: APARTMENT OF MME. DE MAINTENON, FONTAINEBLEAU PALACE, FRANCE.--Madame de Maintenon was the second wife of Louis XIV., although no written proof of such a marriage is extant; but, that it took place, is nevertheless certain. As a wife, she was wholly admirable; she had to entertain a man that would not be amused, and was obliged to submit to a terribly strict court etiquette of absolute obedience to the King's inclinations. This she always did cheerfully, and never complained of weariness or illness. Her apartments still appear as they did when occupied by her.] [Illustration: NICE, FRANCE.--Superbly situated on the shores of the Mediterranean is the City of Nice. In winter it is the rendezvous of invalids and others from all parts of Europe, who seek refuge here from the bleak and vigorous atmosphere of the North. The season begins with the races early in January, and closes with a great regatta at the beginning of April; but visitors abound from October until May. In summer the place is deserted.] [Illustration: MONACO.--This principality of Europe, French in language, but Italian in tradition, is located in the southern part of France, on the Mediterranean Sea. Its area is six square miles, and consists principally of the town of Monaco and its suburbs, which stand on a high promontory. Monaco has a fine palace, a new cathedral, a college, a noted casino, where gambling is licensed to pay with its profits the state expenses; it has also manufactories of spirits, fine pottery, bricks, perfumery, and objects of myth. The principality is now virtually under French control.] [Illustration: MONTE CARLO, FRANCE.--This place is a health-resort in winter and a sea-bathing place in summer; but the chief attraction to many is the "tapis vert" at the Casino. Monte Carlo belongs politically to the diminutive principality of Monaco; the former, as seen in the picture, is picturesquely situated on a small level at the foot of a high range of mountains, skirting the Mediterranean. The building to the left with turrets is the Casino. The population of the place is almost entirely transient.] [Illustration: GAMING HALL, MONTE CARLO, FRANCE.--Every portion of the interior of the Casino, of which the gaming-rooms are a part, is luxuriously fitted up. The ceilings are elaborately frescoed, while the walls and niches are adorned with works of art. Admission to the above room is obtained free upon presentation of a visiting card at the office. The games in progress from 11 A. M. until 11 P. M., are generally roulette, and patronized by men and women of all ages and from all countries. For the student of human nature, the gambling halls present an excellent opportunity to study mankind.]