of the train of emotions which had just convulsed him,--but his look
was firm and high.

"Mother," said he, pressing her hand, "I thank you. It was better to
learn this dreadful secret from your lips than from the words of
another. Henceforth we will live for each other--we shall have a
common sorrow and a common fate. I pray you to excuse me for a few
moments. I will soon rejoin you, but I have first a duty to perform."

The young guardsman passed from his mother's presence to that of the
Baron de Clairville.

"Welcome, welcome! my brave boy," said the old soldier. "You have
fairly won your spurs."

"Sir, you flatter me," replied Henri, gravely.

"Not at all. Saxe himself says that more distinguished gallantry never
fell beneath his notice."

"You think then, baron, I can claim a post of honor and danger in the
next engagement?"

"You can lead the Forlorn Hope if you like."

"Enough, baron. I came to ask your forgiveness."

"My forgiveness!"

"Yes, sir, for having wronged you unconsciously so lately as last