I have asked of you, Madam, a generous act.

I might ask another of you both jointly.

It is to permit me to say without offence, that there is one man, at least, of the name of Grandissime who views with regret and mortification the yet deeper wrongs which you are even now suffering." "Oh!" exclaimed Aurora, inwardly ready for fierce tears, but with no outward betrayal save a trifle too much grace and an over-bright smile, "Monsieur is much mistaken; we are quite comfortable and happy, wanting nothing, eh, Clotilde ?--not even our rights, ha, ha!" She rose and let Alphonsina in.

The bundle was still in the negress's arms.

She passed through the room and disappeared in the direction of the kitchen.
"Oh! no, sir, not at all," repeated Aurora, as she once more sat down.
"You ought to want your rights," said M.Grandissime.