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  fear of jeopardizing her official position as the wife of an invalid millionaire nobleman, but, seeing that he found only diversion in her coquetries, she gradually yielded to the potent attractions beside her, until I do not believe that she realized how ridiculously naked her emotions had become. It was evident that Stewart was holding her hand beneath the table, and he was sitting so close that their knees touched. It was very primordial!—and all of the while the Count was talking easily and with an expression which seemed to say: 'Dear, innocent children—what a pleasing spectacle is youth and ardor!'

"I was glad when the time came for us to leave, as I am a simple old bushman, Doctor, and I found the spectacle embarrassing. "The following day Stewart had the Count and Countess to luncheon, and after a very well-ordered repast asked if they would enjoy a drive into the country.

You would enjoy it,' said the Count to his [ 176 ]