The weekly mountain Democrat. [volume] (Placerville, El Dorado County, Calif.) 1861-1862, 1862-06-14


exclaimed Lydonie.
She paused suddenly. An idea had
entered her brain. She determined to
act upon it.
While she>is acting upon it, let us see
what the Duke is about.
One night about eight days after his
marriage, the Duke, plainly attired and
mutfled in a cloak, roamed through the
Faubough St. Antoine, as was his wont,
in quest of adventures.
AS he turned the corner Of one of those
narrow lanes, that intersected that quar-
ter at that period, piercing shriek burst
upon his ear, mingled with suitocating
cries for assistance.
The Dukes sword was out in an instant
He was brave to rashnesS. Without
moments ShV~gS.& H. Q3uage4, into the
lane.
lie beheld female struggling in the
grasp Of man.
The man fled precipitately at his ap-
-f,rsatzh, and the g;vl ssAuG into his arms,
convulSivcly cXcIaiming:
Save me, oh. save me-!
The Duke sheathcd his sword and en-
dcavorcd to calm her fears.
Ale lead her beneath the lamp that
swung at the corner.
why, you are perfect beauty! he
cried rapturously, and in surprise.
The girl cast down her eyes and blush
ed deeply, and the Duke felt the little
hand that rested upon his arm tremble,
but she did not seem dSpleased.
DO you reside in Paris? p
yes; but we have only been here a
short time-we came from Bellville-
mother and H.
From the country, eh? Where do
you live my pretty blossom?'
In the Rue st. Helene
why, that is some distance from here.
Will you not permit me to escort you
home? These streets are dangerous, as
you have found, to one as beautiful as
you are
Il would very much like to have you
see me homc-if-if-'
She paused, and appeared confused.
If what = asked the Duke eagerly.
If you would only be so good as to
promise not to-to-try-to-kiSs inc
again-if you please sir, replied the girl,
innocently.
/ The Duke was charmed. There was q
simplicity, freshness about this young
girl which pleased him.
! give you my word as n gentleman,
he said frankly, that no action of mine
shall diSpleasc you, if you accept my
escort
She came to his side and took his arr
with confidence.
| am not afraid Of you,' she said witt
sweet simplicity; Il know you are toe
good to injure me-
The Duke blushed for the first time ir
he could not remember how many
ycars-hc knew nc was receiving better
character than he deserved.
What is your name?' he asked, Il:
they proceeded on their way.
Bcrgcronettc, she replied.
What a pretty name. And so yOl
live here in Paris, all alone with you,
mother?'
Yes
Il dare say that you have plenty o
sweethcartsy'
NO, haven't one
What, no one that loves you?'
None, replied Brrgeronette, quit
sadly.
Would you not like sweetheart
Perhaps.
You must be particular in your choice
or you would have sweetheart before
YOU now. What kind of one would yol
like, now y
Those sparkling gray eyes were liftec
to his for a moment.
Il would like one, if YOU please, like
! like
Like what?'
Like soUr
Phe& ! thought the Duke, am get
ting on here. Now, is this cunning, or il
it Simplicity
They walked on for some time in 81
ience.
Bergcronette checked the Duke befor,
a little cottage with garden in front
There was wicket gate leading into th'
garden.
Here is where ! live;' she. said.
She took a key from girdle and un
locked the gate.
viii she invite me to enter p thought
the Duke-and the thought was father tc
the wish.
Good night, sir said Bergeronette
and many thanks for your Kindness
She is Diana = was the Dukes men
tai reflection.
Shall | never have the pleasure of see
ing you AGAIN. said the Duke.
DO you wish it!' she said, earnestly
Most ardently'
I'll ask my mother
An oath rose to the Dukes lips, but he
prudeutly checked it,
Will you receive me to morrow 2
You may come, and if my mother i.
Willingness
| shall be here, sure
You will have forgotten me by to
morrow
| shall never forget you
| have heard my mother say the mcr
always protest more than they mean
Your mother is the Duke pauseC
and bit his lip.
What is she:' asked Bergeronette
archly.
She isis right But I mean what
say. AS surely as the morrow comes, 81
will L.
Come. Good night
She turned from him, and was about tt
enter the garden.
Bergeronette,' he said, quickly, 'onG
kiss before go. Surely my forbearance
deserves it..
She made no answer, but inclined hel
head gently towards him. For moment
she fingered in his arms, and then tore
herself from his embrace and passed
quickly through the gate.
The Duke determined to follow her
When he placed his hand against the
gate he found it was securely fastened
Bergeronette had prudently locked it after
her.
So the Duke went to his lodghgs-hC
had taken batchelor departments on hi:
wedding day-to dream of Bergeronette