Page:Francesca Carrara 1.pdf/97

Rh the first of their small garden—and, placing them beside the little bunch of straw which hung from his button-hole, "They will be scarce withered ere I am again at your feet," and followed his companions.

"Why, Evelyn," exclaimed Joinville, "in what profound mystery you had enveloped your beautiful Italian! Remember, I am not on honour, and shall do my utmost to rival you."

"I pity all who take fruitless trouble," said Evelyn, carelessly.

"I understand, now," added D'Argenteuil, "what made our volunteer so ready to accompany us. I believe, however, Mr. Eyelyn usually has some reason for his actions."

"Could I give a fairer one?" laughingly replied Evelyn.

D'Argenteuil was, however, wrong in his supposition. The young Englishman had only joined his party from mere love of adventure, for he was recklessly brave; and Francesca's arrival in Paris was as little known to him as to the rest of the party.

The heavy door had scarcely closed, when Francesca, leaning her head on Guide's shoulder, burst into a passion of tears.