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 diminish than promote your own happiness; (the Countess smiled, and Madeline bowed), but now that we have discovered the treasure you possess, be assured, my good friend (continued she), we shall not suffer you to monopolize it entirely to yourself."

"Do not wrong me so much (said the Countess), as to suppose I ever harboured so selfish an idea; no, be assured I would not do society so much injustice."

"I am particularly pleased (said Madame Chatteneuf), that you have come to-day, as my daughter gives a little ball this evening, which, to her and her whole party, I am sure will be doubly agreeable from having your company and Mam'selle Clermont's."

"How unfortunate (exclaimed the Countess), that we had no presentiment of this, for then we should have put on all our airs and graces."

"Nature has already done that," replied Madame Chatteneuf.

"Well, but seriously (said the Countess), we shall not be able to appear in our morning