That woman--what does she call
herself--Rougierre? I have reason to believe is--in fact, from
circumstances, _must_ be your enemy; you will find her very deep, daring,
and unscrupulous, I venture to say, and you can't be too much on your
guard. Do you quite understand me, Maud?'
'I do,' said I, with a gasp, and my eyes fixed on her with a terrified
interest, as if on a warning ghost.
'You must bridle your tongue, mind, and govern your conduct, and command
even your features. It is hard to practise reserve; but you must--you must
be secret and vigilant. Try and be in appearance just as usual; don't
quarrel; tell her nothing, if you do happen to know anything, of your
father's business; be always on your guard when with her, and keep your eye
upon her everywhere. Observe everything, disclose nothing--do you see?'
'Yes,' again I whispered.
'You have good, honest servants about you, and, thank God, they don't like
her. But you must not repeat to them one word I am now saying to you.
Servants are fond of dropping hints, and letting things ooze out in that
way, and in their quarrels with her would compromise you--you understand
me?'
'I do,' I sighed, with a wild stare.
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