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Rh give a hint, that was all. She thought: "If the happiness of that child lies near her heart, she will seek further."

After a moment of silence the Princess arose, placed her hand upon Grandmother's shoulder, and said in a pleasant voice: "I'll care for those lovers. But you, my good woman, come to me about this time to-morrow."

"Dear Princess," said the Countess, placing the book under her arm, "Grandmother has consented that I shall paint her picture, but wants it to remain a secret while she lives. How can we do it?"

"Come to the castle, Grandmother; Hortense can paint you there. While you live, I shall keep the picture. She will paint your grandchildren, too; but that picture will be for you, so that when they are grown up you can see how they looked when they were small."

Thus speaking, the Princess bowed, entered the carriage with the Countess, and rode toward the castle.

Grandmother went into the house, her heart overflowing with joy and thankfulness.