"And you spoke magnificently," he said, in a half-choked voice; "you are indeed a friend, Raoul.

But now, I entreat you, leave me to myself." "Do you wish it ?" "Yes; I need repose.

Many things have agitated me to-day, both in mind and body; when you return to-morrow I shall no longer be the same man." "I leave you, then," said Raoul, as he withdrew.

The count advanced a step towards his friend, and pressed him warmly in his arms.

But in this friendly pressure Raoul could detect the nervous agitation of a great internal conflict.
The night was clear, starlit, and splendid; the tempest had passed away, and the sweet influences of the evening had restored life, peace and security everywhere.