"Thanks, Capus. Go now and rest." And as the man went I stood for a little looking after him, and then went back to the balcony, the letter in my hand. As I came up mademoiselle called out to me:
"See!" she cried, "there is the new moon; turn over the money in your pocket, and wish."
I laughed. "There is little enough to turn, mademoiselle; but for my wish—it is all good fortune and happiness to you."
"Now you will bring me ill-luck for having spoken your wish aloud. Oh, monsieur!"
"Heaven forbid! But have you wished, may I ask?" She turned away with a little sigh, and looked out into the violet evening, where the slender sickle of the moon shone silver bright. Down below the twilight darkled in the streets. Figures moved like shadows, and now and again a light flashed out. Tall and slight, she stood out against the darkening sky, her face half averted from me, and I knew not what it was, but an almost irresistible impulse came on me to put my fortune to the touch. But I thought of De Ganache. She was his promised wife. I thought of what I had to offer, and this and that gave me strength, and so I held back.
"Mademoiselle," I said with an effort, "this is our last evening, and my wardship ends to-morrow."
"To-morrow?"
"Yes; the Queen has sent an escort to meet you at Longpont."
"She is most kind!"
"And as I may not have the chance of speaking to you alone again——"