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Rh ; "Are you sketching portraits in your own mind?—I hope it is one of our cavaliers? What do you say to that of the Duc de Candale?"

The truth was, De Joinville, who took that constant interest in the affairs of others, called philanthropy or curiosity according to circumstances, had noted Francesca's tête-à-tête of the former evening, and wished to draw some conclusion of its results from her manner. He was disappointed—she was too indifferent for confusion; and, far above the singularly small vanity of conquests, she answered him with entire composure.

"I would describe him in three words—chivalresque, romanesque, and pittoresque. I heard Madame de Mercœur say that he was going to Spain, and he appears to me an admirable specimen of your court—he will do you credit."

"Have you seen Madame de Soissons' portrait of herself?" asked de Joinville, who now thought that the subject of the Duc de Candale was too uninteresting for further question.

"No," said Madame de Mercœur; "I suppose Marie felt that she could tell me nothing new."

"I have a copy; so, if you please, you can judge for yourself," and the Chevalier read as follows:—