"Certainly; I appeal to Louise,"
"Monsieur do Brasfelonne probably thinks the position is above my condition," said Louise hesitatingly.
"Assuredly not," replied Raoul eagerly; "you know very well that such is not my feeling; were you called upon to occupy a queen's throne, I should not be surprised; how much greater reason, then, such a position as this? The only circumstance which amazes me is, that I should have learned it to-day, and that only by mere accident."
"That is true," replied Montalais, with her usual giddiness; "you know nothing about it, and there is no reason why you should. Monsieur de Bragelonne had written several letters to you, but your mother was the only person who remained behind at Blois, and it was necessary to prevent these letters falling into her hands; I intercepted them, and returned them to Monsieur Raoul, so that he believed you were still at Blois while you were here in Paris, and had no idea whatever, indeed, how high you had risen in rank."
"Did you not inform Monsieur Raoul, as I begged you to do?"
"Why should I? To give him an opportunity of making some of his severe remarks and moral reflections, and to undo what we had so much trouble in getting done?"
"Certainly not."
"Am I so very severe, then?" said Raoul inquiringly.
"Besides," said Montalais, "it is sufficient to say that it suited me. I was about setting off for Paris; you were away; Louise was weeping her eyes out; interpret that as you please; I begged a friend, a protector of mine, who had obtained the appointment for me, to solicit one for Louise; the appointment arrived. Louise left in order to get her costume prepared; as I had my own ready, I remained behind; I received your letters, and returned them to you, adding a few words, promising you a surprise. Your surprise is before you, monsieur, and seems to be a fair one enough; you have nothing more to ask. Come, Monsieur Malicorne, it is now time to leave these young people together; they have many things to talk about; give me your hand; I trust that you appreciate the honor which is conferred upon you. Monsieur Malicorne."
"Forgive me," said Raoul, arresting the giddy girl, and giving to his voice in intonation the gravity of which contrasted with that of Montalais; "forgive me, but may I inquire the name of the protector you speak of — for if protec- Dumas — Vol. XV. 5
