"My dear, good woman," cried the young soldier, without allowing her to finish, "don't I always have enough? Aren't you always depriving yourself of something to give it to me?"
"Hush! Monsieur is ringing again. Hasten to him at once!"
And Olivier obeyed.
CHAPTER XXV.
MATRIMONIAL INTENTIONS DISCLOSED.
At the sight of Olivier, the commander's features assumed a joyful expression, and, not being able to rise from his armchair, he held out both hands to his nephew, saying:
"Good morning, my boy."
"Good morning, uncle."
"I feel strongly inclined to scold you."
"Me, uncle?"'
"Certainly. Though you only returned yesterday you were off this morning almost before sunrise. I woke quite early, happy in the thought that I was not alone, as I have been for two months past. I glance over at your bed, but no Olivier is to be seen. You had already flown."