Gaston turned pale; Helene lowered her eyes, and placing her hand in that of her lover—
"Before these people who watch us," said she; "before the eyes of this woman, we will go away together."
Gaston's eyes lighted up with joy; but somber thoughts quickly clouded them again. Helene watched this changing expression.
"Am I not your wife, Gaston?" said she; "is not my honor yours? Let us go."
"But where to place you?" said Gaston.
"Gaston," replied Helene, "I know nothing, I can do nothing; I am ignorant of Paris—of the world; I only know myself and you; well, you have opened my eyes; I distrust all except your fidelity and love."
Gaston was in despair. Six months previous, and he would have paid with his life the generous devotion of the courageous girl.
"Helene, reflect," said Gaston; "if we were mistaken, and this man be really your father!"
"Gaston, do you forget that you first taught me to distrust him?"
"Oh, yes, Helene, let us go," cried Gaston.