So much so, indeed, that if you will allow me to do so, I will see Lacheneur myself, and arrange the matter in such a way that his pride will not be wounded.

His is a devotion which it would be well to retain." The duke opened his eyes to their widest extent.
"Lacheneur's pride!" he murmured.

"Devotion which it would be well to retain! Why do you sing in this strain?
Whence comes this extraordinary interest ?" He paused, enlightened by a sudden recollection.
"I understand!" he exclaimed; "I understand.

He has a pretty daughter." Martial smiled without replying.
"Yes, pretty as a rose," continued the duke; "but one hundred thousand francs! Zounds! That is a round sum to pay for such a whim.

But, if you insist upon it----" Armed with this authorization, Martial, two hours later, started on his mission.
The first peasant he met told him the way to the cottage which M.
Lacheneur now occupied.
"Follow the river," said the man, "and when you see a pine-grove upon your left, cross it." Martial was crossing it, when he heard the sound of voices.