"A very accomplished young machinist, and mathematical instrument maker, sir, who has realized quite a handsome fortune by his patented improvement in——"
"The foul fiend!" exclaimed the old aristocrat, throwing up his hands in consternation, as he trotted off.
His daughter talking, dancing, riding, flirting with a mechanic! Oh! horror, horror, horror!
The result of this was, that after Mr. Legare's perturbed feelings had become somewhat calmed he called for his bill, settled it, took four places in the morning coach, ordered his servants to pack up, and the next day set out for the South.
He was very much disturbed; Mrs. Legare said nothing, but poor Mathilde was miserable, having been made to feel that she had unwittingly brought discredit upon herself and all her family.
Mr. Legare left Mathilde and myself at our school, and with his wife proceeded to Louisiana.
I soon saw that the warm-hearted young Southern maiden really was, or believed herself to be, the subject of a deep and unhappy attachment; she became reserved to all, even to me, and her health suffered. As weeks grew into months her indisposition increased. One day her emotion broke the bounds of reserve, and throwing herself into my arms, she exclaimed:
"Oh, Agnes! if Frank would only write to me I should not feel so wretched!"
"Frank? who is Frank, my love?" I inquired in surprise, for I had never heard this name among our acquaintances.
She blushed deeply. "Oh! I mean Mr. Howard, you know! Frank Howard."