like precautions, because they presupposed distrust, and might
appear offensive.

"We have charming weather to-day," said her father; "nevertheless there
is a possibility of rain to-morrow. If I started this evening on
a journey, I should carry my umbrella, without fearing to insult
Providence. Who speaks to you of offending M. Larinski? Not content with
approving of the step I propose taking, he will thank me for it. Why did
he at first refuse to marry you? Because you are rich, and he is poor.
The contract I wish to have drawn up will thoroughly set at ease his
disinterestedness and his pride."

"The question of money no longer exists for him," she eagerly replied;
"it is my desire that it should not be started again. And since you like
comparisons, let us suppose that you invited one of your friends to take
a turn in your garden. Your espaliers are laden with fruit, and you know
that your friend is an honest man, and that, besides, he does not care
for pears. Suppose you were to put handcuffs on him, would he or would
he not be insulted?"

He answered in an exceedingly vexed tone, that this was entirely
different, and Mlle. Moiseney having taken the liberty to interfere in
the discussion in Antoinette's behalf, declaring that Counts Larinski
are not to be distrusted, and that men of science are incapable of
comprehending delicacy of sentiment, he gave full vent to his wrath,
telling the worthy demoiselle to meddle with what concerned her. For the
first time in his life he was seriously angry. Antoinette caressed him
into good-humour, promised that she would put on the best possible
face to Maitre Noirot, that she would pay religious attention to his
counsels, and that she would endeavour to profit by them.

While M. Moriaz was engaged in this stormy interview with his daughter,
Samuel Brohl was _en route_ for Maisons. After the first flush of
astonishment, the note and invitation of Mme. de Lorcy had pleased
him immensely; he saw in it the proof that she had ceased to struggle
against the inevitable--against Samuel Brohl and destiny; that she had
resolved to bear her disappointment with a cheerful countenance. He
formed the generous resolution to console her for her vexation; to gain
her good-will by force of modesty and graceful attentions.

Alone in his compartment of the cars, Samuel Brohl was happy, perfectly
happy. He was nearing port; he held it for an established fact that,
before a fortnight, the banns w