'She assigned a reason for what appeared so strange to us, namely, his having requested you to return home. He told Lady Geraldine he did so, fearful that, if you longer continued in the vicinity of Montmorenci Castle, you would discover his absence from it, and well knowing that here he could be concealed from you. He is now about leaving her for the night.'
"And whither does he go?' cried I, starting from my seat.
'He is to lodge in the cottage where his child is, (replied Claude); it stands upon yonder acclivity, and this is the way to it.'
"Enough (said I), retire.'
"He began to entreat permission to remain with me, but I hastily interrupted him. "I must not be opposed (cried I); my conversation with my brother will not admit of witnesses. farewell! retire to repose, and accept of my thanks and purse for your services."
