Much better was it that I should pass for ever out of her life--as, indeed, methought I was like to pass out of all life--whilst I could leave in her mind a kind remembrance and a grateful regret, free from the stain that a subsequent possible presumption of mine might have cast o'er it.
Then my thoughts shifted to Andrea.

St.Auban would hear of my removal, and I cared not to think of what profit he might derive from it.

To Yvonne also his presence must hereafter be a menace, and in that wherein tonight he had failed, he might, again, succeed.

It was at this juncture of my reverie that M.de Montresor's pleasant young voice aroused me.
"You appear downcast, M.de Luynes." "I, downcast!" I echoed, throwing back my head and laughing.

"Nay.