The children went away with their governesses.

Bettina, Susie, and Richard went to sit in the park, quite close to the castle, and as soon as they were established there: "Susie," said Bettina, "I am going to remind you today of your promise; you remember what passed between us the night of his departure; we settled that if, on the day of his return, I could say to you, 'Susie, I am sure that I love him,' we settled that you would allow me to speak frankly to him, and ask him if he would have me for his wife." "Yes, I did promise you.

But are you very sure ?" "Absolutely--and now the time has come to redeem your promise.

I warn you that I intend to bring him to this very place," she added, smiling, "to this seat; and to use almost the same language to him that you formerly used to Richard.

You were successful, Susie, you are perfectly happy, and I--that is what I wish to be." "Richard, Susie has told you about Monsieur Reynaud." "Yes, and she has told me that there is no man of whom she has a higher opinion, but--" "But she has told you that for me it would be a rather quiet, rather commonplace marriage.