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Rh to your feet again; and the pleasure of rejection would be something."

"To me less than nothing. No, dear Henriette, I never wish to see or hear of Mr. Evelyn again; it is sufficient mortification to think that I ever could have loved him. Besides, may I add, that I have my own little vanity on the occasion, and its suggestions whisper perfect discretion. Confidence, entire confidence, I owed to your friendship; but I am not bound to extend that confidence. A subject like the present must be annoying in the months of indifferent people; their comments, whether of wonder or pity, would be intolerable. Any notice of Mr. Evelyn's conduct must excite them, and from such I do entreat to be spared."

"Rely upon me that it shall not be talked of," replied the Duke. "And now, Henriette," addressing his wife, "do let us praise her. In such a case I should have expected tears, faintings, and a most ready acceptance of your kind offer of the Bastile."

"Now, see the selfishness!" exclaimed Madame de Mercœur, laughing; "He is charmed with you because you have given him no trouble—he has not had even to offer you a glass of water. But I do say you are a dear creature, and quite