"Monsieur has been here before, I believe," said Marguerite, reassured on recognizing one whom she believed to be her master's friend. "Yes, yes, my good mother, I have often been here; but hasten to lead me to your young mistress. It is absolutely necessary that I should see her." "Is my master ill?--has he been involved in some quarrel? Many accidents happen in this city." "Don't be uneasy, there's nothing of that kind." The marquis followed Marguerite, who led him to Blanche's chamber, and opened the door, saying,-- "Mademoiselle, here is a gentleman who brings you a message from M. Touquet." Blanche took some steps forward to meet the stranger; the marquis had entered abruptly, but on perceiving the young girl he paused, and for some moments remained motionless, occupied in contemplating her. There was something in the aspect of the marquis which compelled respect, and while at that moment there was nothing severe in his expression, the astonishment and admiration depicted on his features lent additional animation to his naturally proud and noble look. Blanche involuntarily lowered her eyes, for she could not meet the fixed gaze with which the marquis seemed to examine her person, and Marguerite dared not utter a word, because the stranger intimidated her also. "This is truly beyond all that I could have imagined," said the marquis, as if he were speaking to himself. "Monsieur," said Blanche, with embarrassment, "my nurse informs me that you have something to say to me, some message from my benefactor; has anything happened to him, monsieur?" "No, lovely Blanche, no; your benefactor, since you deign to so call him, has run into no danger, but I would brave a thousand if by that means I could make you take the same interest in me." Blanche glanced timidly at the marquis as if she were waiting for him to explain himself better; the latter, in hastening to lead her to a chair, dropped a corner of his mantle, allowing his rich attire to be seen, and Marguerite said under her breath to the young girl,-- "Mon Dieu, my child, look at those precious stones, that lace, this is at least a great nobleman." "Oh, yes," answered Blanche, in the same tone, "it is superb, but I like Urbain's costume much better." Villebelle, who had not taken his eyes from Blanche, remained silent. "Why did you come here then," said she, seeing that he was contented with looking at her. "Yes," said Marguerite, who sought to resume her ordinary assurance, "for you must have come for something." "And I have found more than I had believed possible," said the marquis, smiling. Then, without appearing to notice the embarrassment which his presence caused, he approached Blanche, took her hand, and cried,-- "You in this retreat! you hidden from all eyes!--when you should be the ornament of the world and receive the homage of the whole universe." "Forgive me, monsieur," said Blanche, "but I don't understand you."