THE MYSTERY OF MADELINE LE BLANC.
11
I.
It is the year 1830.
"See who is at the door, Madeline."
"Which door, father? I did not hear any knocking."
"I thought it was the front—didn't you, Doctor?"
"I was not listening."
The front door opened, and in walked a young man clad in military uniform.
"Oh! it is Joseph," cried the girl, running into his arms. "But why do you wear your uniform? Surely, you do not drill today. And you have not even one smile for me?" she continued, roguishly looking into his face.
The young man held the girl for a moment, then releasing her, he turned to the two men at the table, and was about to address them, when the father interrupted.
"Come, my lad, and taste the wine
