Page:Francesca Carrara 1.pdf/183



We must make. The heart a grave, and in it bury deep Its young and beautiful feelings.".

" our young Englishman so much improved," said Madame de Mercœur, the next morning; "And as I take it for granted that you have found out, by this time, that your inconstancy was one of those mistakes which the heart will some times make, I have invited him to CompeigneCompiegne [sic]. Now do allow that there is such a thing as friendship in the world."

"I never denied it," said Francesca, who, however, wished that the friendship had shown its activity in any other shape. She could not deceive herself; neither pique nor flattery could bring back her old feeling for Evelyn. Every hour some sentiment of his, carelessly expressed, jarred upon the inmost chords of her heart. All that she had from infancy revered as high and generous, was