"No," replied I, "he is not a marrying man any more than I am a marrying woman. Is it not sufficient that I admit your Count to be very agreeable?--that won't content you. You want me to marry a man whom I have seen for one half hour. Are you reasonable, Monsieur Gironac?" "He has rank, wealth, good looks, talent, and polished manners; and you admit that you do not dislike him; what would you have more?" "He is not in love with me, and I am not in love with him." "Mademoiselle Valerie de Chatenoeuf, you are _une enfant_. I will no longer trouble myself with looking out for a husband for you. You shall die a sour old maid," and Monsieur Gironac left the room, pretending to be in a passion. A few days after the meeting with Count de Chavannes, Lionel made his appearance. My heart beat quick as I welcomed him. "He is here," said he, anticipating my question, "but I called just to know when we should come, and whether I was to say any thing to him before he came." "No, no, tell him nothing--bring him here directly--how long will it be before you return?" "Not half an hour; I am at my old lodgings in Suffolk Street, so good-bye for the present," and Lionel walked away again. Monsieur and Madame Gironac were both out, and would not return for an hour or two. I thought the half hour would never pass, but it did at last, and they knocked at the door. Lionel entered, followed by my brother Auguste. I was surprised at his having grown so tall and handsome. "Madame Gironac is not at home, mademoiselle," said Lionel. "No, Monsieur Lionel." "Allow me to present to you Monsieur Auguste de Chatenoeuf, a lieutenant in the service of his Majesty the King of the French." Auguste bowed, and, as I returned the salute, looked earnestly at me and started. "Excuse me, mademoiselle," said he, coming up to me, and speaking in a tremulous voice, "but--yes, you must be Valerie." "Yes, dear Auguste," cried I, opening my arms. He rushed to me and covered me with kisses, and then staggering to a chair, sat down and wept. So did I, and so did Lionel, for sympathy and company. "Why did you conceal this from me, Lionel?" said he after a time; "see how you have unmanned me." "I only obeyed orders, Auguste," replied Lionel; "but, now that I have executed my commission, I will leave you together, for you must have much to say to each other. I will join you at dinner-time."