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Rh fact, nothing as guide but a very pronounced desire to please, first herself, then François, then everybody; and no amount of meditation showed her how all these objects were to be combined. To be sure, the Snark tells us of a mind so equably divided that when it would call upon Richard or William, it could decide upon neither, and so summoned Rilchiam; but the Snark was not composed in those days, and it is unkind to play with Valerie's feelings in this manner, so let us resume serious history.

The clock struck twelve: a handful of sand thrown against Valerie's window announced a visitor below; and, opening the casement, the young lady was startled to find the top of her lover's blonde head upon a level with the sill.

"Why, how came you there, François?" exclaimed she.

"The fruit-ladder. I was afraid they would hear if we spoke aloud. There is not a moment to spare, for everybody but my father is up and about. I went to see if all was safe, and nearly ran over your governess. But never mind all that. Tell me, Valerie, tell me like a brave and honest girl, tell me that you love me as I love you."

"Certainly, I love you, François: I am very fond of you; but"—

"But what? Speak out, Valerie, be honest."

"How can I speak out when I don't know what to say?" demanded Valerie pettishly. François uttered an exclamation as of physical pain.

"O Valerie! You do not know! You are trifling