Meanwhile, the parish gossiped, though little of that gossip was heard at the Manor Casimbault.

By and by the Cure ceased to visit the Manor, but the Regimental Surgeon came often, and sometimes stayed late.

He, perhaps, could have given Madame Lavilette the best advice and warning; but, in truth, he enjoyed what he considered a piquant position.

Once, drawing at his pipe, as little like an Englishman as possible, he tried to say with an English accent, "Amusing and awkward situation!" but he said, "Damn funny and chic!" instead.

He had no idea that any particular harm would be done--either by love or marriage; and neither seemed certain.
One day as Ferrol, entirely convalescent, was sitting in an arbour of the Manor garden, half asleep, he was awakened by voices near him.
He did not recognise one of the voices; the other was Nic Lavilette's.
The strange voice was saying: "I have collected five thousand dollars--all that can be got in the two counties.