"I read your soul.

Pierquin has been here often in my absence, and he has said sweet words to you, and you have listened to them." Felicie blushed.

"Don't defend yourself, my angel," continued Marguerite, "it is so natural to love! Perhaps your dear nature will improve his; he is egotistical and self-interested, but for all that he is a good man, and his defects may even add to your happiness.

He will love you as the best of his possessions; you will be a part of his business affairs.

Forgive me this one word, dear love; you will soon correct the bad habit he has acquired of seeing money in everything, by teaching him the business of the heart." Felicie could only kiss her sister.
"Besides," added Marguerite, "he has property; and his family belongs to the highest and the oldest bourgeoisie.