Page:The Story of Manon Lescaut and of the Chevalier des Grieux.pdf/275

Rh at least, put me to death, and then seek a happier lot in the arms of some more fortunate mistress!"

"Nay, nay, sweet soul!" I replied; "I ask no better fate than to be allowed to share your misfortunes."

Her words made me tremble, for I feared that her spirit had been crushed under the weight of her afflictions. I forced myself to assume a more hopeful manner, in order to dispel from her mind these melancholy thoughts of death and despair. I resolved to keep to the same course in future; and subsequent events served to teach me that nothing is more calculated to inspire a woman with courage than dauntless fortitude in the man she loves.

When I had lost all hope of receiving assistance from Tiberge, I sold my horse. The proceeds of that transaction, added to what remained of your generous gift, put me in possession of the small sum of seventeen pistoles. Seven of these I laid out in the purchase of some necessary comforts for Manon; the other ten I carefully put by, to serve as the foundation of our hopes and fortune in America.