turning his nephew's head. "He talks of her constantly," said he, "and I
don't know what may come of it; but I give you fair warning, Monsieur De
Vlierbeck, if you are unwilling to see something more than compliments
between these children you had better take time by the forelock. It will
soon be too late to reason with them; for my nephew, with all his calm
gentleness, is not the man to retreat before difficulties."

De Vlierbeck was secretly delighted by the merchant's counsels, but was
too wise to display anxiety.

"You are joking, Monsieur Denecker," said he: "I can't think there is a
particle of danger. They are both young, and there is nothing surprising
in mutual attraction under such circumstances. There can hardly be any
thing serious in their intercourse. But, come," added he, aloud; "I
perceive that dinner is served; and so let us adjourn to the table!"
Gustave led in the blushing girl, and the elders followed admiringly in
their rear, while the merchant shook his finger coquettishly at his
gallant nephew. De Vlierbeck placed Monsieur Denecker opposite him at
table, and made Gustave the _vis-à-vis_ of Lenora.

Bess brought in the dishes, while her son waited on the guests. The
viands were prepared with considerable skill, and Denecker took frequent
occasion to express his satisfaction with their exquisite flavor. In
truth, he was rather surprised at the sumptuousness of the repast; for
he had been prepared to expect lenten fare in a household which was
renowned throughout the neighborhood for its austere economy.

In a short time the conversation became general; and Lenora astonished
Monsieur Denecker by the extent of her information and the admirable
style in which she expressed herself and did the honors of the table.