Page:In a winter city, by Ouida.djvu/216

Rh "Most women make something to care for; she has many family ties, if she cared for them—but she does not. No; she is beautiful, charming grande dame en tout—but I begin to think that it is well for the peace of mankind that she remains so invulnerable. She would probably make any man who loved her very unhappy if she married him."

"If he were a weak man, not otherwise."

"Pouf! Do you think any man would ever have control over her?"

"I am quite sure that she would never care for any man who had not."

"He would be a very bold person," murmured the Duc. "However, I am very glad that you think more highly of her. You know, mon cher, what always was my opinion as to yourself"

Della Rocca coloured, and saw too late that his companion had forced his card from his hands in the most adroit manner. He busied himself with lighting a cigar.

"For myself," he said, coldly, "I can have no object in what I say. My own poverty is barrier sufficient. But I should be unjust not to admit