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Rh "I am sure I should not know what to do with a quarter."

"I believe you; but do try and learn. It is obvious that the Duke of Buckingham is come down with a full intention of laying siege to la belle héritière."

"It is a matter of perfect indifference to me."

The Comtesse gazed at her earnestly for a moment, and Francesca coloured deeply. Quite misinterpreting the blush, she went on eagerly. "I really have some hopes of you. While your king is unmarried, you do quite right to look at nothing under royalty. Charles is not mother and minister ridden, like Louis. I remarked how much he was struck by your appearance. I entreat your future majesty to remember, that I now predict the success of an attempt."

"Which will never be made," exclaimed Francesca. "There is nothing more absurd than refusing what never will be offered; but I would not marry Charles Stuart if he had the crown of the world, instead of England's, at his disposal."

"And why not? unless you are planet-struck by the Duke of Buckingham. Never, my dear, allow your fancy to interfere with your interest."

"So little notice did I take of the Duke, that I should not know him again."