Fanny Garman had from the first shown herself particularly well disposed towards Madeleine, and had more than once invited her to come and pay her a visit in the town.

Nothing had hitherto come of the invitation, for even Madeleine, unversed as she was in the ways of society, could see that nothing more was meant than a compliment.
One Sunday, however, Madeleine was standing before the looking-glass, only partially dressed, and with her thick dark hair hanging in curls over her shoulders.

Fanny happened to pass, and caught sight of her reflection by the side of Madeleine's.

She stopped and noticed the contrast.

The dark hair and slightly gipsy complexion of her cousin set off her own fair skin and light hair most admirably.