He had allowed his niece considerable liberty, and now she was unreasonable.

Marie, who, in spite of her devotion to her uncle, was beginning to think that she was ill-used by this tone, made no reply.

'I hope you haven't been falling in love with any one else,' continued Michel.
'No,' said Marie, in a low whisper.
'I do hope you're not still thinking of George, who has left us without casting a thought upon you.

I do hope that you are not such a fool as that.' Marie sat perfectly silent, not moving; but there was a frown on her brow and a look of sorrow mixed with anger on her face.

But Michel Voss did not see her face.