At last, one evening, when I thought she was about to revert to this great object of her ambition, I started the subject myself.
"I am going to announce an important piece of news," I said to her; "I have found a convent for you where you can stay pending your mother's arrival."
"Really!" she exclaimed, kissing me. "Oh, my dear André, how kind you are!"
"Yes; but I must warn you. This realisation of your dream is only possible at the cost of sacrifices, which will perhaps be hard for you to make."
"What sacrifices? Tell me, quick!"
"First, assiduous work, and next, the sacrifice of your liberty; for during the whole time you remain at this establishment, you won't be able to leave the place."
"What does that matter?" she exclaimed, "provided I can see you every day!"
"But that's exactly what will be impossible."
"Why?" she asked, in her simplicity.
"Because, according to our customs, bachelors are never admitted into young ladies' schools," I replied, with a laugh.