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318 allow me to speak, and, in so doing, put an end for ever to a very painful subject. I have myself not a remark to make on Mr. Evelyn's conduct—and I wish to hear none. I owed it to Madame de Mercœur's kindness to have no concealments from her;—the explanation given, the subject will not again pass my lips. On yourself I can have no claim but for that general courtesy which I think authorises me to request that here the topic may be dropped."

"You are right; and, I can assure you, my own remembrance is too disagreeable to dwell upon. But it is a gratification to have friends; and I must be permitted to tell you how warmly the Duc de Mercœur took up your cause."

Francesca's anxious look now betrayed her attention.

"He called on me this morning to request me to be the bearer of a challenge to Mr. Evelyn."

"Good God!" exclaimed Francesca.

"You need not look so pale; Mr. Evelyn is half-way to Holland by this time—a fact which was my answer. Mercœur then bade me to be silent for once in my life. I promised, and, what is more, intend faithfully to perform."

Observing that his companion smiled, he went on,—