"Nicolas is to appear very soon before the court of appeals on the draft.

The general, instead of asking for his release, as the Tonsards expect, has only to advise his being sent to the army--" "If necessary, I will go myself," said the countess, "and see my cousin, de Casteran, the prefect.

But until then, I tremble for that child--" The words were said at the end of the path close to the open space by the bridge.

As they reached the edge of the bank the countess gave a cry; Michaud advanced to help her, thinking she had struck her foot against a stone; but he shuddered at the sight that met his eyes.
Marie Tonsard and Bonnebault, seated below the bank, seemed to be conversing, but were no doubt hiding there to hear what passed.
Evidently they had left the wood as the party advanced towards them.
Bonnebault, a tall, wiry fellow, had lately returned to Conches after six years' service in the cavalry, with a permanent discharge due to his evil conduct,--his example being likely to ruin better men.

He wore moustachios and a small chin-tuft; a peculiarity which, joined to his military carriage, made him the reigning fancy of all the girls in the valley.