"Well, André, what have you for me?"
"Nothing but this, Madame," the page replied, handing her the package containing the veil.
"Ah, it is not the ring!" cried Diane.
That was as far as her observation went at first; but she soon collected herself somewhat, and a prey to that insatiable curiosity which makes the unfortunate eager to anticipate the extremity of their sorrow, she eagerly interrogated André.
"Did Monsieur d'Exmès intrust you, besides this, with no writing for me?"
"No, Madame."
"But surely you must have some verbal message to give me?"
"Alas!" the page replied, shaking his head, "Monsieur d'Exmès said only that he gave you back all your promises, Madame, even to that of which this veil is the pledge; he added nothing to that."
"But under what circumstances did he send you to me? Had you given him my letter? What said he after reading it? When he put this package in your hands, what did he say? Speak, André! You are devoted and faithful, I know, and my whole future depends on your answers; the very least word may serve as a guide and consolation to me in the darkness which surrounds me."
"Madame," said André, "I will tell you all that I know; but that all is very little."