"Bravo, Pascal! Long live Pascal!" was the cry of the young people.

Franconnette was unwontedly touched by the song.

"But where is Pascal ?" she said.

"If he loves, why does he not appear ?" "Oh," said Laurent, another of his rivals, in a jealous and piqued tone, "he is too poor, he is obliged to stay at home, his father is so infirm that he lives upon alms!" "You lie," cried Thomas.

"Pascal is unfortunate; he has been six months ill from the wounds he received in defence of Franconnette, and now his family is dependent upon him; but he has industry and courage, and will soon recover from his misfortunes." Franconnette remained quiet, concealing her emotions.