“Ah, indeed!” said Camors.
“Let us see, little one! Only try on your coronet before your cousin.”
“I should like to see it on your brow,” said Camors.
“Your slightest wishes are commands,” replied Charlotte, in a voice harmonious and grave, but not untouched with irony.
In the midst of the jewelry which encumbered the salon was a full marquise’s coronet set in precious stones and pearls. The young girl adjusted it on her head before the glass, and then stood near Camors with majestic composure.
“Look!” she said; and he gazed at her bewildered, for she looked wonderfully beautiful and proud under her coronet.
Suddenly she darted a glance full into the eyes of the young man, and lowering her voice to a tone of inexpressible bitterness, said:
“At least I sell myself dearly, do I not?” Then turning her back to him she laughed, and took off her coronet.
After some further conversation Camors left, saying to himself that this adorable person promised to become very dangerous; but not admitting that he might profit by it.
In conformity with his promise he returned immediately to the General, who continued to pace the three rooms, and cried out as he saw him: