“'I have found somebody,' he said, in a low voice.
“I was dumfounded, and said: 'Somebody really suitable? Some one of your own rank and position in society?'
“'Decidedly,' he replied.
“'Oh! And may I ask his name?'
“'I came on purpose to tell you, and to consult you. It is Monsieur Gaston du Boys de Lucelles.'
“I felt inclined to exclaim: 'The wretch!' but I held my tongue, and after a few moments' silence I said:
“'Oh! Very good. I see nothing against it.'
“The poor man shook me heartily by the hand.
“'She is to be married next month,' he said.
“Monsieur Gaston du Boys de Lucelles was a scapegrace of good family, who, after having spent all that he had inherited from his father, and having incurred debts in all kinds of doubtful ways, had been trying to discover some other means of obtaining money, and he had discovered this method. He was a good-looking young fellow, and in capital health, but fast; one of that odious race of provincial fast men, and he appeared to me to be as suitable as anyone, and could be got rid of later by making him an allowance. He came to the house to pay his addresses and to strut about before the idiot girl, who, however, seemed to please him. He brought her flowers, kissed her hands, sat at her feet, and looked at her with affectionate eyes; but she took no notice of any of his attentions, and did not make any distinction between him and the other persons who were about her.