[CHAPTER XIII]
"COME, come, François, we do not understand each other," returned Master Jean Vertaud; "and I do not know how to take you. You are no fool, and I think my hints have been broad enough; but you are so shy that I will help you out still further. Are not you in love with some girl about here?"
"No, master," was the waif's honest answer.
"Truly?"
"I give you my word."
"Don't you know one who might please you, if you were able to pay your court to her?"
"I have no desire to marry."
"What an idea! You are too young to answer for that. What's your reason?"
"My reason? Do you really care to know, master?"
"Yes, because I feel an interest in you."