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114 "Yet my words explain my meaning. Very evil intelligence has reached me concerning this M. de Cobalt; and in my zeal for your welfare I came this morning to confer with M. de Proballe; and we arranged the scene that this man's character might be tested openly."

"I should prefer that M. de Cobalt be present, my lord." Gabrielle took fire instantly, and she made no attempt to disguise her indignation.

"It is not necessary. His presence or absence is a matter of no concern. What you have heard of him to-day and read in that letter of his is true."

"Do you mean" she began hastily, then checked herself and said proudly: "But I will not deign to ask a question. Your lordship must be entirely in error. I have unbounded faith in M. de Cobalt's honour. It is a matter your lordship must excuse my declining to discuss." The Duke frowned, but repressed his anger.

"I can understand your feelings," he said calmly. "Would that the man were worthy of it! I honour you for this attitude and would gladly spare you the pain which the truth must cause you; but it must be told, mademoiselle."

Gabrielle would not answer, and the Duke turned to de Proballe.

"You will tell your niece, monsieur, that that letter was written to you by M. de Cobalt himself in reply to others from you to him."

"I think you and I had better discuss this further," said de Proballe, in a desperate shift at the new position.

"It is my wish, monsieur," replied the Duke coldly, with a glance of menace.

"Even my uncle himself will not shake my confidence in M. de Cobalt, although he may change my feelings toward himself," declared Gabrielle, firmly.

"M. de Proballe," said the Duke.

"I know not your intentions," he answered, in a fever