Rocky Ford enterprise., 1896-12-17
CHAPTER vIII.-(CoSrIsuxpo

CHATTER RVlll.-(CONTINUED.)
1T Is OF no consequence" replied the
former, turning to the marquis with
some quiet remark concerning the
weather.
The count hustled away from the
room. The countess then earnestly in
luired concerning all the turbulent
movements In Paris, and the marquis
was much impressed by the good sense
and intelligence of her remarks.
What" thought he, "is that obtuse
Languedoc ignorant of the superiority
Of the wife he treats so slightingiy?'
He might have guessed that this very
superiority was cause enough for slight
from such little nature as the counts
The count came back in the highest
spirits.
THAT is as remarkable as pro-
pitious," observed the marquis. are
you sure this man has means OF obser-
yation?"
Certainly: a more faithful. trust
worthy fellow cannot be found In all
Europe"
The countess and her daughter ex-
| changed glances. In the fcce OF their
| knowledge 1t was certainly painfully
| ludicrous-this complaisanca and SELF
sufficiency of the counts. The mar
quis did not lose this, little by-play
| Of dumb talk between the ladies.
I've must not be over confident
said he, there is too much at stake 10
peril 1t lightly"
"oh, no." responded the count. rub
bling his hands briskly, and acting like
person Just emerging from night
mare OF horror into perfect security.
But We can afford to take Pierre's
word, will give warrant OF that"
| The countess opened her lips, and
then closed them again, casting at the
same time beseeching looks at Felicie.
The latter spoke at once.
"But, papa. do not In the least
share your confidence. can tel you
something that will shake your faith IN
that odious NJ. Pierre"
"Odious NJ. Pierre! yes. that is 1t.
Your ladyship has used my absence
skillfully: you have instilled into the
girl your own absurd and shametui an
tipathy to my favorite agent! ex-
claimed the count, turning angrlly to
his wife.
She bit her lips ere che answered,
with the utmost coolness:
"Felicie will assure you her preju-
dices are her own. But pray lot us
leave so disagreeable subject. think
hear the bell which summons us to
the dining-room; am sure you must
be ready for the repast."
The marquis gave her his arm. and
Felicie went out with her father. The
latter recovered his good humor at the
table, and drank to the health OF the
future Marchioness De Berri. HIS
daughter received it In silence.
Edward should be here to respond"
said the marquis, gayly, "but trust
week from this will give him the
privilege"
The ladies retired early, leaving the
gentlemen to their wine.
Mamma" exclaimed Felicie, what
is to be done? Papa will never credit
our story, so obstinately does he pin MS
faith upon NJ. Pierre. And II We tell 1t,
he will carry it at once to NJ. Pierre.
and will not that ruin all?'
The countess sighed bitterly.
81 cherished the hope that he world
at least give me credit for veracisy
His mistaken confidence in that villein
will greatly embarrass us. 1t will nefer
do 10 risk the destruction of all by Al
lowing NJ. Pierre to hear of our disccv-
cry. I see only one method"
81 know what that is. mamma. Wait
until Emile comes, and ask his advEe.
1 shall look for the flowers every morn
ing and noon. 1t seems best to Iae,
also"
"You have guessed my decision. Gnd
about the marquis and the marriage,
Felicie?"
The girl dropped her head against
her mothers shoulder.
81 am coward, mamma, after I'll
NY brave talk. l dare not oppose my
iather's will. Besides, since Emile has
seen him and pronounced him worthy,
do not feel so desperately miserablt>"
The countess kissed her fondly.
Dear child, Heaven grant there mey
be no risk. His father is very prepot-
sessing."
Yes. l wonder how he came to be-
so intimate with papa, he is Sc differ
ant"
Hush my child, do not forget your
| flal respect"
Felicie accepted the reproof without
comment, but as she contrast ed this
careful respect of her mothers with.
the tantallzlng behavior of the count.
she found it impossible not to rsiterats
her Indignation mentally.
The next day the two gentlemen rcda
over to Frejus, dressed very plainly.
and quite unattended. NJ. Pierre Satchel
Them ride away with malignant glee.
There go two simpletons on fool'H
srrand" muttered he. DO they expect
all the people to come forward and in-
form them of the intended revolt!
Much wiser may they be IN their re-
| ,urn."
| CHAPTER TX.
fRS:VItYl HE marquis looked
| g / sspys sss'n .ntstsa as 'as Hs