Countess watched her every movement with looks that spoke the warmest admiration: never indeed had Madeline appeared more beautiful; surprise and agitation had heightened the faint glow of her cheek to a bright crimson, which increased the lustre of her eyes, and rendered it almost dazzling. With downcast looks and hesitating accents, she apologised to the Countess for the frugal fare she was compelled to set before her. Jaqueline soon made her appearance with it; and ere she retired, was again reminded of the servants in the study, for whom she received some of Madeline's nice sweetmeats, and Clermont's best wine.
Either from compliance to the delicate feelings of her entertainers, or from real inclination, the Countess seemed to enjoy her supper; every thing indeed, though simple, was excellent in its kind. Her conversation now turned on general subjects, and Madeline was disappointed beyond expression, for she had flattered herself it would have re-
