The Caldwell tribune. [volume] (Caldwell, Idaho Territory [Idaho]) 1883-1928, 1897-12-25
CHAPTER VIIL-tCoNTEurn. !

1t Is OF no consequence, replied the
dormer, turning to the marquis with
some quiet remark concerning the
weather.
The count hustled away from the
room. The countess then earnestly an
quired concerning all the turbulent
movements in Paris, and the marquis
was much impressed by the good sense
and intelligence of her remarks.
'What?' thought ne, ''is that obtuse
Languedoc ignorant Of the superiority
of the wife he treats so slightingly?"
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.
Excellent, excellent, De Berri, our
most sanguine hopes are fulfilled. M
Pierre assures me that the utmost
quiet reigns in this little corner of the
country. 1t is our salvation that it is
30 remote from Paris. He did not seem
aware of anything which had taken
place there, and thought it best not to
enlighten him. We shall have ample
time for preparation and shall set sail
from Freius with our valuables."
THAT is as remarkable as pro-
pitious," observed the marquis. "Are
you sure this man has means of obser-
Eation?"
Certainly; a more faithful, trust
worthy fellow cannot be found in all
Europe"
The countess and her daughter ex-
changed glances. In the face of their
knowledge 1t was certainly painfully
ludicrous-this complaisance and self
sufticiency 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 to
peril it lightly"
"Oh, no." responded the count, rub
bling his hands briskly, and acting like
a person just emerging from a 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, I do not in the least
share your confidence. can tell you
something that will shake your faith in
that odious M. Pierre"
"Odious NJ Pierre! yes, that is it.
Your ladyship has used my absence
skillfully; you have instilled into the
girl your own absurd and shameful an
tipathy to my favorite agent! ex-
claimed the count, turning angrily to |
his wife.
She bit her lips ere she answered, |
with the utmost GOODNESS:
"Felicie will assure you her preju- |
dlces are her own. But pray let us
leave so disagreeable subject. think |
hear the bell which summons us to |
the dining-room; 1 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 1 trust
a 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 his
faith upon M. Pierre! And if we tell it,
he will carry it at once to M. Pierre
and will not that ruin all?"
The countess sighed bitterly.
81 cherished the hope that he would
at least give me credit for veracity.
His mistaken confidence in that villain
will greatly embarrass us. It will never
do to risk the destruction of all by al
lowing M. Pierre to hear of our discov-
cry. 1 see only one method"
81 know what that is, mamma. Wait
until Emile comes, and ask his advice.
I shall look for the flowers every morn
ing and noon. 1t seems best to me,
also"
'You have guessed my decision. And
about the marquis and the marriage,
Felicie?"
The girl dropped her head against
her mothers shoulder.
81 am a coward, mamma, after all
my brave talk. dare not oppose my
fathers will. Besides, since Emile has
seen him and pronounced him worthy,
I do not feel so desperately miserable
The countess kissed her fondly.
Dear child, Heaven grant there may
he no risk. His father is very prepos-