Engaged lovers sometimes have matters to discuss that even a brother may not hear, so I will leave you together, feeling sure that you will both thank me for it in your hearts.

Adieu!--make the most of your time, for I shall soon return to conduct de Sigognac to the prince." With a laughing nod the young duke picked up his hat and went away, leaving the two happy lovers alone together, and--however agreeable his company may have been to them, it must be admitted that his absence was, as he had predicted, very welcome to both.

The Baron de Sigognac eagerly approached Isabelle, and--again possessed himself of her fair hand, which she did not withdraw from his warm, loving clasp.

Neither spoke, and for a few minutes the fond lovers stood side by side and gazed into each other's eyes.

Such silence is more eloquent than any words.