She remained at the same spot standing mute and motionless.

An instant afterwards the door opened, she felt two arms encircle her, and a mouth pressed her forehead.

She looked up and uttered an exclamation of joy.
"Maximilian, my dearest brother!" she cried.

At these words Madame Morrel rose, and threw herself into her son's arms.

"Mother," said the young man, looking alternately at Madame Morrel and her daughter, "what has occurred--what has happened?
Your letter has frightened me, and I have come hither with all speed." "Julie," said Madame Morrel, making a sign to the young man, "go and tell your father that Maximilian has just arrived." The young lady rushed out of the apartment, but on the first step of the staircase she found a man holding a letter in his hand.
"Are you not Mademoiselle Julie Morrel ?" inquired the man, with a strong Italian accent.
"Yes, sir," replied Julie with hesitation; "what is your pleasure?
I do not know you." "Read this letter," he said, handing it to her.