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 by a solemn vow to conceal; and except I can assign better reasons for wishing to leave it than I have already done, (and to do so is impossible) Madame D'Alembert will certainly be offended at my quitting it."

Hurt by her silence, by her too evident wish of departing, Madame D'Alembert suddenly wiped away her tears, and while a crimson glow mantled her cheek, exclaimed,

"Against your inclination I will not detain you: no, Madeline, to inclination, not necessity, I must be indebted for your company. I see your reluctance to continue with me, and you are at liberty to depart the moment you please: I own—" and her voice faltered. "I had hoped, I had imagined, but it is no matter, 'tis not the first time I have been disappointed,—disappointed by those on whom my heart placed its tenderest affections, and by those it believed would sincerely return them."