she saw a gentleman she did not know, with Bertrand, she stopped in some embarrassment, and would have retreated but that the gentleman came forward and held out his hand, while the boy called eagerly,—
"Do not go! Do not go! This is my father who wishes much to see you!"
The Marquis made so low a bow that Ellie was astonished.
"Mademoiselle," he murmured in a low voice, "has done me the honor to befriend my lonely child, I am told. Mademoiselle must accept my profound acknowledgments."
Poor Ellie had a fear that he was making fun of her, and felt on the verge of tears. The little heir could not bear to see her look troubled.
"She does not understand what you mean, Papa!" he said to the Marquis softly; "you are distressing her. Come here, dear Ellie! I am so very glad to see
