"What a delightful réunion!" said Mr. Smithson when they came to the dessert. "It is hard to think we must all separate to-morrow. But it is settled that you, M. Louis, are to come back as soon as you are perfectly well."
"I give you my word," said Louis; "and promise also never to leave you from the time you see me again."
"I hope you will carry out that intention. We will never separate again. But you are young, and it is more difficult for a young man to foresee what may occur."
"As far as it depends on me, I can." As Louis said these words, he glanced at Eugénie, who sat opposite. His look seemed to say: "There is the magnet that will keep me here for ever!" Eugénie blushed. Every one noticed it.
"It is useless for you to say that," said Mr. Smithson. "I shall always be in fear of your escape till you are positively bound here. But how shall we bind you to St. M——? There is one way," and Mr. Smithson smiled as he spoke; "which has occurred to the parents; will the children consent?"
Eugénie and Louis looked at each other. In the eyes of both beamed the same joy.
"The children make no reply, ..." resumed Mr. Smithson.
"Pardon me," exclaimed Louis. "I dare not be the first to answer."
"Silence implies consent," replied Mr. Smithson. "If Eugénie is not of your mind, let her protest against it. Otherwise I shall give my own interpretation to her silence."
"I do not protest," said Eugénie, unusually intimidated.