They invited Madame Guirlande to come and live with them on what terms she chose; and when she said there ought to be some elderly man in the house, they at once suggested inviting their music-teacher.

Madame, aware of the confidence Mr.Royal had always placed in him, thought it was the best arrangement that could be made, at least for the present.

While preparations were being made to effect this change, her proceedings were suddenly arrested by tidings that the house and furniture were to be sold at auction, to satisfy the demands of creditors.

She kept back the unwelcome news from the girls, while she held long consultations with Signor Papanti.

He declared his opinion that Rosabella could make a fortune by her voice, and Floracita by dancing.
"But then they are so young," urged Madame,--"one only sixteen, the other only fourteen." "Youth is a disadvantage one soon outgrows," replied the Signor.