She was terribly disappointed at not having seen you; but knowing our intimacy, she intrusted me with a letter for you from Mademoiselle de Mussidan." Andre shuddered; he felt that the note contained evil tidings, with which De Breulh was already acquainted.

"Give it to me," said he, and with trembling hands he tore open the letter and perused its contents.
"DEAREST ANDRE,-- "I love you, and shall ever continue to do so, but I have duties--most holy ones--which I must fulfil; duties which my name and position demand of me, even should the act cost me my life.

We shall never meet again in this world, and this letter is the last one you will ever receive from me.

Before long you will see the announcement of my marriage.

Pity me, for great as your wretchedness will be, it will be as nothing compared to mine.