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 henceforward I'll never express the smallest curiosity to be acquainted with his affairs; and never more will I scold Jaqueline when I catch her with her ear to the key-hole listening to our discourse."

She continued lamenting her conduct and imploring heaven to forgive it, till she heard the Countess, notwithstanding the lightness of her step, returning to her chamber. Roused by this, she then first perceived that day was dawning, and cold and exhausted crept into bed, where she lay till it was time for her to rise. As soon as dressed, she went down to assist Jaqueline in preparing breakfast, and found her the only person yet up.

"Why, Mam'selle (said she, the moment she saw Madeline), I believe you slept but poorly last night, for you look very pale."

"Do I," said Madeline, with a sigh.

"Yes, indeed; and I fancy I don't look vastly blooming myself, for my rest was not over good I can assure you; I thought I