aims, amongst which the now excited Caliste walked with a
stateliness that could not but command attention; and lastly came the
youths, twelve in number, wearing the Rosiere's livery.

On did the musicians and procession pass between two rows of spectators,
down the village street, followed by Lisette in conscious triumph; once
only did she turn her head to see her train of attendants who came behind
her, but her eye resting on the almost unnatural beauty of Caliste, who
walked next to her, struck with envy at beholding it, all the
self-conceit of her own countenance passed away; and Dorsain, who had
remarked her glance, saw that even in this hour of triumph the Rosiere
was not content, for she felt she had a rival--a successful rival in
beauty.

As D'Elsac watched the speaking countenances of the two sisters, he could
have wept for very grief. Here were two girls whose beauty was
pre-eminent, highly gifted by Providence, and possessing in reality all
that could make life desirable; but, instead of being happy and content,
the love of admiration had rendered the one miserable till her bodily
health had suffered, and the other even in her success was envious of
that beauty which illness bestowed upon her rival. Then did his thoughts
wander to Victorine, and he turned towards the cottage, but she was not
in sight, and he could not but recollect how she had refused the offer of
the Rosiere's crown because she knew it would drive all love and peace
from her mind. Yes, you are right, Victorine, he thought; true, most
true, are your words; this distinction is indeed a root of bitterness,
and, unless you can point out a method of extraction, much I fear has its
influence taken an immovable hold upon the minds of your unhappy sisters.

The procession had now reached the church, and, Lisette being led to the
centre of the aisles, she was visible to all around. A Prie Dieu or
kneeling stool was then placed for her use, and the service of vespers
commenced, being led by Monsieur le Prieur, the same priest who
pronounced her the Rosiere. The maidens and the youths surrounded her,
but she was distinguished from amongst her young companions by being all
in white, for she wore no scarf, such being the wonted custom at Salency.

Whilst the service continued D'Elsac anxiously watched the countenance of
Caliste, and more than once he was half tempted to step forwards and lead
her from the church; every eager gaze, every look cast