can make somebody so happy."

"But what do you think I am? I am neither maid nor duchess. I
didn't know you till to-day, and I am not responsible to you for
my actions. Supposing one day I should become your mistress, you
are bound to know that I have had other lovers besides you. If
you make scenes of jealousy like this before, what will it be
after, if that after should ever exist? I never met any one like
you."

"That is because no one has ever loved you as I love you."

"Frankly, then, you really love me?"

"As much as it is possible to love, I think."

"And that has lasted since--?"

"Since the day I saw you go into Susse's, three years ago.

"Do you know, that is tremendously fine? Well, what am to do in
return?"

"Love me a little," I said, my heart beating so that I could
hardly speak; for, in spite of the half-mocking smiles with which
she had accompanied the whole conversation, it seemed to me that
Marguerite began to share my agitation, and that the hour so long
awaited was drawing near.

"Well, but the duke?"