I have heard the most astonishing reports of this young woman's family, which seem to prove that virtue is in no very great request there." At this Dame Kramm also became loquacious.

"Whatever this young woman's relations may be, sir, she has had absolutely nothing to do with them since she was a child.

Her heart is as pure as a child's, and her education has been so austere that, even if she were now to be abandoned entirely to herself, not the shadow of a vice could possibly find admittance in her breast." "Ah, madam, you have made me altogether happy!" "How so, sir ?" "The soul of my Maria will at length be able to rest in peace." And off he went again, leaving Dame Kramm to think the matter over for another week.
On the following Sunday he honoured the worthy spinster with his entire confidence.
"Madam," said he, "I am convinced that your young charge is quite worthy of my protection.

That girl will one day become a famous _artiste_, and her rare virginal modesty will raise her far above all her fellows.

But a strict watch must be kept upon her.