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320 companions' conquests—to be the confidante is almost equal to having the lover her own. This, we grant, is confined to the very young, and perhaps they may consider it as an augury; still, this mere satisfaction in confidence is a purely feminine feeling. Besides, to do De Joinville justice, he felt, too, a degree of kindly compunction for the former harsh judgment entertained of one who so little deserved it; and—for there is no such thing in the human mind as an unmixed sensation—he was struck both with the spirit with which she resented, and the proud humility with which she forgave the affront.

The idea of the parting so near gave rather more than usual animation to the circle. The visit to the camp—the hope of meeting with the enemy, were but stirring excitements; all were too young, too happy, too prosperous, for fear. The room was crowded and warm, and, stepping from the window, Francesca leant on the balustrade which looked on the garden below, silvered over by the quiet moonlight.

"I hope," said a voice by her side, "your absent brother will not engross all your orisons."

"No one will offer them more fervently than I shall do for your Grace's success," said Francesca, who instantly recognised her royal