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240 for Louis to be so absolutely governed by his mother as he is. He hears with her ears, and sees with her eyes—I suppose, he will soon eat with her mouth!"

"Do not look so angry, Marie; it quite spoils your pretty face."

"I do not care how I look; and if you have nothing more pleasant to say, I wish you good morning."

"Nay, now, don't run away; we shall find something more agreeable, if you will but have patience."

"Indeed, I should not have come in at all, but that the Queen requested I would give the plan of the masque to la Signora Carrara, and remind her of her engagement." So saying, she threw the roll of paper on the table, and left the room.

"I am so delighted at the fancy which the Queen has taken to my little Francesca," said the Duchesse, kindly. "You must look your best at the masque. There is an old picture of my uncle's, whose costume will suit you exactly—we will go and study it."

Madame de Mercœur was one of those who are happy in their amiability. Gentle and kind, rather than acute or strong in feeling, she relied