The noble stranger gave his arm to Madame Etienne. "Madame," said he, "may I ask of you the favor of standing godfather to your son?"
Madame Etienne blushed with pleasure, and replied that she would be most grateful for the honor.
"In this way," thought she, "we shall find out his name and rank."
The ceremony began. The curate spoke a few impressive words as to the nature of the sacrament, and then proceeded to baptize the infant. The water was poured over its head, and at last came the significant question: "What is the name of the godfather?" All eyes were turned upon him, and Madame Etienne's heart beat hard, for she expected to hear the word "count" at the very least.
"My name?" said he. "Joseph."
"Joseph," repeated the priest. "Joseph—and the surname?"
"I thought Joseph would be enough," said the stranger, with some impatience.
"No, sir," replied the priest. "The surname, too, must be registered in the baptismal records."
"Very well then—Joseph the Second."
"The Second?" echoed the curate, with a look of mistrust. "The SECOND!
Is that your surname?"