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160 Mercœur's plan, it was with the view of sparing, not hurting, your feelings," said Francesca, soothingly.

"Henriette,—Madame de Mercœur," continued he, correcting himself, "was always good and kind."

"And so she is still; the same Henriette who never came without some choice leaf or flower for my poor grandfather. I remain with her till your return, and it will then be time enough to decide on our future plans. But the Cardinal will soon be here; so I shall go, and lend an attentive ear to Mons. Bournonville's raptures about le superbe jeune roi, &c., while you attend to your toilette. Look here!" said she, passing her fingers through the tangled masses of his long dark hair, and parting it on his forehead:—she turned deadly pale—for there was blood upon her hands!

"It is nothing," exclaimed Guido, with a faint smile.

Francesca kissed him in silence, and left the room; but it was some time before she had resolution to join Bournonville.

"Mon Dieu! Mademoiselle," exclaimed the fluttered artist; "his Eminence the Cardinal—and he may be here in five minutes! For the love of all the saints, help me to place his portrait on the