“‘No, madam.’
“‘Then, in the name of Heaven, who is it that I meet so often?’ slowly and sternly demanded Mrs. Dubarry.
“Old Isaac solemnly shook his gray head, and answered never a word.
“‘What do you mean by that? Speak! I will have an answer. Who is this silent girl in the red cloak, I ask?’ repeated the lady.
“‘Madam, I don’t know. And that is what I meant when I shook my head,’ replied the old man, trembling.
“‘You don’t know! do you dare to mock me?’
“‘Far from it, my lady; but goodness knows I don’t know.’
“‘But you have seen her?’
“‘Dear, my lady, I don’t know who she is, nor dare I speak of her; the master has forbidden us so to do. Dear madam, ask the master; but oh, for pity sake, do not ask me further,’ pleaded the old man, very humbly.
“The lady turned white with jealousy. There was but one interpretation she could put upon this mystery.