hild, had not yet brought with
them a sting to her mother's heart.

When Valmont returned from his own vineyard, whither he had gone that
morning, he inquired of his wife, "who had been elected amongst the
villagers to stand for Rosiere." Margoton told him with pride of their
two children being selected, with Felicie Durand, a girl well worthy, she
owned, to be chosen with her own daughters.

Durocher, with more coarseness than his wife, upbraided Victorine for not
striving for the rose with her sisters. "Were you but cured of your
folly, child," he said, "there is no doubt of your success as Rosiere,
for you are a great favourite, Victorine, notwithstanding your heresy."

Victorine could have asked, had she thought it right, if it might not be
this very heresy which made her beloved. She had been taught by her aunt
Pauline to seek after peace, and to pursue it, for such is well-pleasing
in the eyes of our God. And that person who strives not with his
neighbour, who is content with his own situation, and willing to give way
in what is right to others, will most probably, if he act consistently,
be beloved by his friends and neighbours. To her father's remark she
made no reply, but there was that in her heart which made her at rest.
She did not desire the crown of roses; she did not wish to be exalted
above her young friends. She knew wherein true happiness consists, and
she was fully aware that such distinction could not confer true
happiness.

What especially impressed this upon her mind was the perceiving a cloud
upon the brow of Caliste, and a flush on her cheek, which betokened
resentment or anger. When alone with this sister, she could not get her
to acknowledge what vexed her; but Lisette was not so backward with her
information.

"It is not my fault, you know, Victorine," she said, with an affected
air, "if I am considered superior to my elder sister. It is ridiculous
in Caliste to be angry about that. She ought to conquer her great pride,
and then she will be more agreeable and more beloved. She fears me for a
rival, Victorine. She is not jealous of Felicie Durand--indeed, I know
she would prefer her being elected before me; but I cannot help being a
younger sister, neither can I ungratefully quarrel about a preference our
neighbours may choose to give me over Caliste."

"Then you think," said Victorine, "you will be the chosen Rosiere."

"I have very little doubt of it," she answered, "for Cal