De Vlierbeck, however, was more familiar with the world than his daughter; and, imagining that lie had penetrated the mystery of Gustave's conduct, many a pleasant dream hovered that night around his pillow.
As the usual hour of Gustave's visit approached next day, De Vlierbeck's heart beat high with hope; and when the visitor appeared, clad with unusual neatness and care, the old gentleman welcomed him with more than ordinary warmth.

After the compliments of the day had been paid to his ladylove, Gustave expressed a desire for a few moments' conversation with her father, who led him into an adjoining cabinet and seated himself by his side.
"What is it you wish of me, my young friend ?" said he, kindly.
Gustave was silent for a moment, as if endeavoring to rally his ideas, and then spoke out in a manly way:-- "I am about, my dear sir, to speak to you in regard to a matter that concerns my happiness; and, no matter what may be your decision, I am sure, from your kindness upon all occasions, that you will pardon my boldness.

I can hardly imagine that the feeling--the irresistible feeling--I have entertained for Lenora from the first moment I saw her, has escaped your penetrating eye.

I ought probably to have asked your consent long ago, before she obtained so complete a dominion over my heart; but I have always secretly encouraged the belief that you read my soul and wore not displeased with my motives." Gustave was silent, awaiting the hoped-for words of encouragement; but De Vlierbeck only looked at him with a gentle smile, and gave no other indication of his pleasure.

A motion of the hand, as if he wished the lover to go on with his conversation, was the only sign he made in reply, Gustave's resolution began to ebb at this discouraging by-play; but, summoning all his energy for another attack, he continued:-- "Yes, sir, I have loved Lenora from my first sight of her; but what was then a spark is now a flame.