comte Jean compelled me to submit to the test of a rigid examination.

His serious air amused me much as he gazed at me some time in
solemn silence. At length his forehead relaxed, a smile of
satisfaction played on his lips, and extending his arms
to me, without venturing to touch me, "You are charming, divine,"
he said; "Lebel ought to go and hang himself if he does not fall
down at your knees."

Soon afterwards the folding-doors were hastily opened, and a
servant announced M. Lebel, , with M.
Morand. The comte went to meet the arrivals, and as I now saw
Lebel for the first time, he presented him to me formally.

"Sister, this is M. Lebel, , who has done
us the honor to come and dine with us."

"And he confers a real pleasure on us," said I, looking smilingly
on M. Lebel. My look had its effect, for Lebel remained mute and
motionless from admiration at my person. At length he stammered
out a few incoherent words, which I imagined to be compliments.
The comte watched Lebel anxiously, and Morand began to rub
his hands, saying:

"Well, sir, what think you of our celestial beauty?"

"She is worthy of a throne," replied Lebel, bending his head
before me, and taking my hand, which he pressed respectfully to
his lips. This reply was, perhaps, inadvertently made, but I took
it as a good augury. "Yes," added Lebel, "you are the most lovely