Page:The Story of Manon Lescaut and of the Chevalier des Grieux.pdf/32

36 test by confiding in you as I have done. It is true that I am in love; I have not deceived you on that score; but, as to my running away, that is not an affair to be undertaken at haphazard. Come for me at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, and I will, if possible, let you see the fair object of my passion. You shall then judge whether or not she is worthy of my taking such a step for her sake."

Assuring me again and again of his friendship for me, he at last left me alone.

I occupied the night in putting my affairs in order, and towards daybreak hastened to the inn, where I found Mademoiselle Manon awaiting me. She was at her window, which looked out on the street; so that, catching sight of me as I approached, she came down and opened the door for me herself. We stole softly away. She had nothing with her but a bundle containing some changes of linen, which I carried. We found the chaise awaiting us, and quickly left the town behind us.

I shall relate in due course how Tiberge acted when he realized that I had deceived him. His friendly zeal on my behalf lost none of its ardor, and you will see to what