She would rather die than suffer a stain upon her purity.

It is impossible to see much of her without perceiving that; it shines out in everything that she says and does." Hereupon a long discussion followed as to the best manner of conducting the attack upon this fair citadel, which the young nobleman became more and more determined to conquer, as new difficulties were suggested.

The worthy landlord, who was a shrewd fellow and had made a just estimate of Isabelle's character, finished by advising his noble interlocutor to turn his attention to Serafina, "who was very charming, and not less beautiful than Isabelle, and who would be greatly pleased and flattered by his lordship's notice." This, because he felt sure that the duke would not succeed with Isabelle, in spite of his exalted rank, handsome person, and immense wealth, and he wished to spare him an inevitable disappointment.
"It is Isabelle that I admire, and will have," said Vallombreuse, in a dry tone that put an end to the discussion.

"Isabelle, and no other, Maitre Bilot." Then plunging his hand into his pocket, he drew forth a goodly number of gold pieces, and throwing them down carelessly on the table, said, "Pay yourself for the bottle of wine out of this, and keep the balance." The landlord gathered up the louis with a deprecating air, and dropped them one by one into his purse.

The two gentlemen rose, without another word, put on their broad, plumed hats, threw their cloaks on their shoulders, and quitted the hotel.