“I should like to believe that, but what would you have done if she had accepted your offer? You would be in one bed by this, I suppose?”
“I was more than certain, dearest, that her pride would hinder her receiving me.”
We had reached this point in our conversation when we were surprised by the sudden appearance of Veronique with a lighted candle, and wearing only her chemise. She laughed at her sister to encourage her, and I joined in the laughter, keeping a firm hold on the little one for fear of her escaping. Veronique looked ravishing in her scanty attire, and as she laughed I could not be angry with her. However, I said,—
“You have interrupted our enjoyment, and hurt your sister’s feelings; perhaps you will despise her for the future?”
“On the contrary, I shall always love her.”
“Her feelings overcame her, and she surrendered to me without making any terms.”
“She has more sense than I.”
“Do you mean that?”
“I do, really.”
“I am astonished and delighted to hear it; but as it is so, kiss your sister.”