"So much the better! He will doubtless take Madeleine with him," suggested the countess.
Count Tristan in an altered tone read on,—
"'As I shall travel entirely en garçon, of course it will be impossible for Madeleine to accompany me, but an admirable opportunity presents itself for placing her in a situation that is very suitable. My friend, Lady Vivian, of Edinburgh, who forms one of the party here, is in search of an humble companion. I have spoken to her ladyship concerning Madeleine. She made some slight demur on account of the young lady's attractive person, but finally consented to offer her this situation.'"
"A de Gramont hired out as an humble companion! What an indignity!" ejaculated the countess.
The count continued reading,—
"'I will myself write to Madeleine and apprise her of what I have done, and present the many advantages of such a position.'"
"She must not receive the letter!" said the countess, earnestly. "She is capable of accepting this offer for the sake of wounding us. But Count Damoreau has insulted us grossly. How has he dared to entertain such an offer for a member of our family,—one in whose veins flows the same untainted blood? Why do you not speak, my son? But indignation may well deprive you of speech!"
"I can only say that in some manner we must at once rid ourselves of Madeleine."
"I would rather see her dead than in a situation which disgraced her noble name," answered the countess, violently.