I believe he would be the kindest husband ever woman had, and so I am content to give my life into his keeping.

What more can be needed ?" "Never ask me, mademoiselle; I am by no means an authority," said he.

"But you appear to have been well schooled in a most excellent philosophy." And he laughed outright.

She reddened under his amusement.
"It was thus my father taught me," said she, in quieter tones; "and he was the wisest man I ever knew, just as he was the noblest and the bravest." Garnache bowed his head.

"God rest his soul!" said he with respectful fervour.
"Amen," the girl replied, and they fell silent.
Presently she returned to the subject of her betrothed.
"If Florimond is living, this prolonged absence, this lack of news is very strange.