world's goods was small, and yet it was on this pittance alone that we
were sustained, till the exertions of a generous friend procured you,
under the name of De Grandville, (my maiden name,) a commission in the
guards."

"Then De Grandville was not the name of my father."

"No--he belonged to the noble house of Montmorenci. The early years of
our married life were passed in happiness that I always feared was too
great to be enduring. It was brought to a bitter and miserable end.
Deadly enemies--for the best and noblest have their foes--conspired
against your father, and he was accused--falsely accused, mark me--of
treason to his king and country. I will not tell you by what forgery
and perjury he was made to appear guilty--but he was convicted--and
sentenced--"

"Sentenced!"

"Ay, sentenced, and suffered. He died by the hands of _Monsieur de
Paris_!"

"_Monsieur de Paris_!"

"The executioner!"

Henri uttered a piercing cry, and covered his face with his hands. He
remained a long time in this attitude, his frame convulsed by the
agonies of grief, while his mother watched, with streaming eyes, the
effect of her communication. At length he removed his hands, and
raised his head. His countenance was deadly pale,--the only indication