Page:Cerise, a tale of the last century (IA cerisetaleoflast00whytrich).pdf/127

 The Quadroon shook her head archly, indeed, coquettishly for her years and replied—

"Certainly not less than a couple of thousand francs?"

"But suppose she knew everything!" urged the lover.

"Then I think she would be so angry, she would have me flogged and give me away for nothing!"

He shook his head, pondering deeply. The flogging was indeed a serious consideration. But then, what a reduction it would make in the price!

There was grave matter, he thought, for reflection in the whole business, and his manner was more sedate than usual, while he instructed Célandine in a certain part that the Abbé and he had agreed she should perform.