I hate him so much that I would give my whole estate--ay, years of my life--if I could punish him for the disgrace he has put upon me." "Then, my lady, we shall soon understand each other; for I too hate him," said Miss Holland, quietly seating herself on the velvet divan, and smiling as she observed the speechless astonishment of the duchess.
"Yes, my lady, I hate him; and without doubt still more ardently, still more intensely than you yourself; for I am young and fiery; you are old, and have always managed to preserve a cool heart." The duchess was convulsed with rage; but silently, and with an effort, she gulped down the drop of wormwood which her wicked rival mingled in the cup of joy which she presented to her.
"You do hate him, Miss Holland ?" asked she, joyfully.
"I hate him, and I have come to league myself with you against him.

He is a traitor, a perfidious wretch, a perjurer.

I will take vengeance for my disgrace!" "Ah, has he then deserted you also ?" "He has deserted me also." "Well, then, God be praised!" cried the duchess, and her face beamed with joy.

"God is great and just; and He has punished you with the same weapons with which you sinned! For your sake, he deserted me; and for the sake of another woman, he forsakes you." "Not so, my lady!" said Miss Holland, proudly.

"A woman like me is not forsaken on account of a woman; and he who loves me will love no other after me.