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"And why should it distress her?" demanded Madeline with quickness, no longer able to suppress her curiosity.

"Why, (repeated Agatha, looking earnestly at her) because—dear Mademoiselle, (cried she as if suddenly recollecting herself) I am sure I can't tell you."

"Don't be alarmed, Agatha, (said Madeline, with affected composure), I shall not inquire into secrets, which I see your respect for your lady makes you solicitous to conceal; in silence I shall submit to her wishes, her kindness gives her a right to expect this from me."


Supper was prepared for Madeline, as was also provisions for the ensuing day, as till the next night, she was informed she could not be visited by any one. Agatha pressed her to sit down to table; she had no inclination to eat, she however complied with her entreaty, and made her also take a chair, being anxious to detain her as long as possible.