There is some credit in giving a lesson to so apt a pupil." "It is impossible," cried Norbert, violently agitated; "such an iniquitous thing cannot be." "You are mistaken," answered Diana calmly.

"Unfortunately I am telling you exactly how matters stand.

The law clearly fixes the age at twenty-five.

During all this time will you remember that a broken-hearted girl--" "Why talk to me of law?
When I am of age, I shall have plenty of money," broke in Norbert; "and do you think that I will tamely submit to my father's oppression?
No, I will wrest his consent from him." During this conversation the Counsellor was carefully removing the dust from the knees of his trousers.
"I will pop in suddenly," thought he, "and catch a word or two which will do away with the necessity of all lengthy explanations." He suited the action to the word, and appeared suddenly before the lovers.

He was not at all disconcerted at the effect his entrance produced upon them, and remarked placidly, "I could not find the sheriff's letter, but I assure you that Widow Rouleau's matter shall be speedily and satisfactorily arranged." Diana and Norbert exchanged glances of annoyance at finding their secret at the mercy of such a man.