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Rh mere and necessary acquiescence to the assertion of a superior.

The Duke, who was quite unprepared for these unlimited affirmatives, paused; for he had expected difficulties to have been raised and obstacles to have been confessed, to which he might have yielded with something of a grace. But now, that none denied the power to which he laid claim, it seemed inevitable that he must propose acting upon it. Madame could restrain herself no longer:

"Out upon it, Gaston!" exclaimed she; "we are not playing Italian comedy. This is just like Trivelin reproaching Scaramouch, 'What fine things I should have said, if you had but had the sense to contradict me!' It matters little what you can do, the question is, what you will do?"

The Coadjutor turned towards her, his whole face changed by its altered expression. It was impossible to imagine any thing more sweet, more winning, than his smile; it had all the effect of sudden sunshine. Still he remained silent—when Monsieur, turning towards him somewhat sullenly, "Well, what do you say? is there any safety in treating with the court?"

"None; unless your highness make your