"I know you as if it were myself. I take the lesser of two evils." And to his amazement, she said, "Send the girl up to me."
"If she will come."
"Come? Of course she will come." He shook his head and left her, but before he was out of the room, her busy hands were again on the embroidery-frame.
"No, I will not go," said Margaret when he delivered his message.
"For my sake, dear," said René, and at last, reluctant and still angry, Margaret went up-stairs.
"Come in," said madame; "you have kept me waiting." The girl stood still at the open door.
"Do not stand there, child. Come here and sit down."
"No," said Margaret, "I shall stand."
"As you please, Mademoiselle. My son has made up his mind to an act of folly. I yield because I must. He is obstinate, as you will some day discover to your cost. I cannot say I am satisfied, but as you are to be my daughter, I shall say no more. You may kiss me. I shall feel better about it in a few years, perhaps."