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 refreshments laid out for them on large tables about the lawn. The gaiety of the scene somewhat amused, but could not entirely remove the dejection of Madeline's heart; her father, sad and solitary in his cottage, was present to her view: and she sighed almost unknowing to herself. The Countess perceived her dejection, and loved her the better for it, as she knew the amiable source from which it proceeded: she tried, however, to beguile it by her conversation; and related a number of pleasant anecdotes; described the different places she had seen; and gave a particular account of Paris, its customs, and diversions.

Subjects so new to Madeline could not fail to amuse and interest her; and she expressed her pleasure in the liveliest manner.

"Yet this charming place (said the Countess, alluding to what Madeline had said on hearing Paris described), I should never visit