'
'I am not so sure of that, my sweet little _bete_; your education has been
neglected, or rather entirely abandoned, since you 'av arrive at this
place, I am told. You must not be a _bestiole_. We must do, you and I, as
we are ordered. Mr. Silas Ruthyn he will tell us.'
All this time Madame was pulling on her stockings, getting her boots on,
and otherwise proceeding with her dowdy toilet. I do not know why I stood
there talking to her. We often act very differently from what we would
have done upon reflection. I had involved myself in a dialogue, as wiser
generals than I have entangled themselves in a general action when they
meant only an affair of outposts. I had grown a little angry, and would
not betray the least symptom of fear, although I felt that sensation
profoundly.
'My beloved father thought you so unfit a companion for me that he
dismissed you at an hour's notice, and I am very sure that my uncle will
think as he did; you are _not_ a fit companion for me, and had my
uncle known what had passed he would never have admitted you to this
house--never!'
'Helas! _Quelle disgrace_! And you really think so, my dear Maud,'
exclaimed Madame, adjusting her wig before her glass, in the corner of
which I could see half of her sly, grinning face, as she ogled herself in
it.
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