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Rh ; but the quick eye of the King at once perceived her. He produced his prize: it was a massive bracelet, consisting of a broad band of gold, widest in the middle, and shaped something like a cuff; though it was obvious, from its unusually small size, it was only fitted to a most delicate wrist. It was set with a sort of running pattern of various precious stones; and it was difficult to say, whether the costliness of the material or the taste of the workmanship was most to be admired.

Many a bright eye grew brighter as the glittering toy was submitted to their inspection; but Louis seemed to have no immediate intention of parting with the beautiful bracelet. He passed round the circle, addressing each individual with his own peculiar grace of manner, questioning them on the various results of the lottery, till he arrived where Francesca stood. "And you, Signora Carrara, have you been very successful?—what memorial of our Cardinal's gallantry has fallen to the lot of his fair country woman?"

"I had no billet," was the hesitating and confused reply.

"Mon Dieu! why did you not take one?" exclaimed Madame de Mercœur. "My dear Francesca, you are too shy."