.

A PLEASANT UNDERSTANDING.
The day following this memorable evening, Pierre left for Algeria, notwithstanding the prayers of Madame Desvarennes who wished to keep him near her.

He was going to finish his labors.

He promised to return in time for the wedding.

The mistress, wishing to give him some compensation, offered him the management of the mills at Jouy, saying: "So that if you are not my son, you will be at least my partner.