Well, at the risk of meddling in what does not concern me, I think it is better to put you in possession of the facts: Your deceased cousin never was married, but he had a child all the same--Claudet is his son, and he intended that he should be his heir also.

Every one around the country knows that, for Monsieur de Buxieres made no secret of it." "Claudet, the son of Claude de Buxieres ?" ejaculated Julien, with amazement.
"Yes; and if the deceased had had the time to make his will, you would not be here now.

But," added the young girl, coloring, "don't tell Claudet I have spoken to you about it.

I have been talking here too long.

Monsieur de Buxieres, will you have the goodness to reckon up your money and give me a receipt ?" She had risen, and Julien gazed wonderingly at the pretty country girl who had shown herself so sensible, so resolute, and so sincere.