Do you think that those days taught me nothing ?" "You will be able to judge me all the more clearly then," returned Andre.

"If I raise myself up to Sabine's level, as she begged me to, then I shall feel that I am your equal; but if I accept your aid, I am your dependent; and I will obey her wishes or perish in the effort." Up to this moment the passion which stirred Andre's inmost soul had breathed in every word he uttered; but, checking himself by a mighty effort, he resumed in a tone of greater calmness,-- "But I ought to remember how much we already owe you, and I hope that you will allow me to call myself your friend ?" M.de Breulh's noble nature enabled him to understand Andre's scruples; his feelings, however, would not for the instant enable him to speak.
He slowly put the notes back in their receptacle, and then said in a low voice,-- "Your conduct is that of an honorable man; and remember this, at all times and seasons you may rely upon De Breulh-Faverlay.

Farewell!" As soon as he was alone, Andre threw himself into an armchair, and mused over this unexpected interview, which had proved a source of such solace to his feelings.

All that he now longed for was a letter from Sabine.
At this moment the portress entered with a letter.

Andre was so occupied with his thoughts that he hardly noticed this act of condescension on the part of the worthy woman.
"A letter!" exclaimed he; and, tearing it open, he glanced at the signature.