Page:The Czar, A Tale of the Time of the First Napleon.djvu/356

346 Prince Ivan, we came into town to avoid that poor M. de Cranfort. Since the auspicious morning when my cousin became Madame la Princesse, the unfortunate gentleman has not been quite in possession of his senses. It is reported that he carries two loaded pistols about with him, and threatens to shoot first Clémence and then himself."

Every one present laughed heartily, assuring Ivan there was not a word of truth in the story.

"As much, I suppose," said Ivan in a low voice to Emile, "as in another story you told me once—about M. de Sartines."

"I am glad enough now that was false," Emile answered graciously. "That child would have been the death of Clémence. I hope M. de Sartines, if he does marry, will marry a dragon, able to keep her in order. But really," he added, "M. de Cranfort is not quite sane. I have heard him say the most extraordinary things; and, do you know, he was for some years at Charenton?" After a short pause, he resumed suddenly—"Prince Ivan, how is the Emperor Alexander?"

"In excellent health," said Ivan cheerfully.

"I am truly rejoiced to hear it."

"Very kind of you," returned Ivan smiling, but with a slight air of surprise at his emphatic manner.

"Because," resumed Emile, in a tone of mystery, "as we are all friends here, I may observe that we have heard rumours—extraordinary rumours."

"Do you mean about his illness at Vienna? It is true he had a fall from his horse, and—"

"Oh, that is nothing. That is not what I mean. But the strangest things are said of him here, and in the best circles too, where you know he was adored last year. In the Faubourg St. Germain all sorts of on dits are rife about him. People say he has become very singular,—a fanatic, a pietist, and I know not what else; that a certain crazy old lady—"

"Hush, hush, Emile," said Madame de Salgues and Madame