She walked toward the work-room and called Victorine, who immediately responded to the summons.
Pointing to the carton, the indignant lady gave the order, "Have that dress placed in my carriage."
"No!" said Madeleine, addressing Victorine, commandingly. "Let the dress remain where it is."
"What do you mean, mademoiselle?" asked the marchioness, in angry astonishment.
"That dress is still mine!" answered Madeleine.
"Yours?"
"It is mine, and we will each keep that which belongs to us,—you the privilege of your rank; I, the results of my labor, however humble."
"Do I understand you rightly? Have you the hardihood to say"—
Madeleine interrupted her,—
"That I refuse to part with that dress for gold, or for any compensation you can offer, except the one already named,—an invitation for Mrs. Gilmer to your ball."