Page:The Mystery of Madeline Le Blanc (1900).djvu/12

12 with us." Pouring out the sparkling liquid, and turning to the other gentleman, the father continued: "These young men are very cunning, Doctor. See how they decorate themselves in times of peace; but it is all for the young ladies. It is the principle of the peacock."

"Yes, the peacock," echoed the doctor, draining his glass.

"Lad, this is Doctor Satiani, who is now a resident of our town, and who will henceforth cure us of our ills."

"I am sorry that our acquaintance must be so brief," said the young man, with an expression of terror in his face; "but we must—there is—" he stammered and stopped.

"Joseph, Joseph, what is it?" cried Madeline, growing pale at his appearance and manner.

The father turned toward him, and the sharp eyes of the doctor stared unpleasantly.

"There is war in Paris—an outbreak—'revolution,' they say; and we go thither in an hour. I have come to say good-by."

"You are going to join the king?" de-