"I will promise her the best horsed carriage in the Bois, a box at the opera, unlimited credit at Van Klopen's, and perfect freedom.

There will be no difficulty, I assure you.

Of course, however, I must be presented by some one who holds a good position in society." "Would the Viscountess de Bois Arden suit you ?" "No one better; she is a relation of the Count de Mussidan." "Good; then when you wish, Madame de Bois Arden will introduce you as a suitor for the young lady's hand, and praise you up to the skies." The Marquis looked very jubilant at hearing this.

"All right," cried he; "then that decides the matter." Paul wondered whether he was awake or dreaming.

He too had been promised a rich wife, and here was another man who was being provided for in the same manner.