TWO HEADS NOT BETTER THAN ONE!
There is not the slightest truth in the report that the following short story, said to have been written by MM. Erckmann and Chatrian since their quarrel, will be more fully developed before republication.
MOSCOW!
Note.—This title is believed to have been furnished by M. Erckmann, but will probably be changed to The Baby's Niece, by M. Chatrian.
Chapter I. (By M. E.)
Napoleon regarded the burning town with a feeling of dismay. He had counted upon the ancient Russian capital as a basis of support when the time should come to retire. As he looked at the fire, luridly reflected in the snow, Marie approached him and fell upon her knees.
"Sire!" she cried, "A boon! I ask you to save Kosmof! I beg of you my lover's life!"
The Man of Destiny gazed upon her with a cold smile, full of cruel meaning, and replied, "Life for life—you know my conditions!" Marie gave a piercing shriek and sank into unconsciousness.
Chapter II. (By M. C.)