"Ah, she is beginning to jest again," thought the Gascon. "I will appear to be duped, in order to see what she will do; I wish she was far away—that my stupid fancy were completely extinguished." Then aloud, "Was it not to-day that you were to say what price you place upon your hand, madame?"
"Yes."
"At what hour?"
"This evening, when the moon rises."
"Why not now, madame?"
"That is a secret you will know like others."
"And if I marry you, you will give me but one year to live?"
"Alas! only a year."
"Let me appear duped," said the Gascon to himself; and aloud, "Is it your desire that my days should be so few?"
"No, no!" cried the widow.