ng
away at present.

I was expecting her to insist that we carry out our plan of going to
Geneva, and was not disappointed. However, she insisted but feebly; but,
after a few words, I pretended to yield, and then changing the subject I
spoke of other things, as though it was all settled.

"And why will not Smith go with us?" I asked. "It is very true that he
has duties here, but can he not obtain leave of absence? Moreover, will
not the talents he possesses and which he is unwilling to use, assure
him an honorable living anywhere? Let him come along with us; the
carriage is large and we offer him a place in it. A young man should
see the world, and there is nothing so irksome for a man of his age as
confinement in an office and restriction to a narrow circle. Is it not
true?" I asked, turning to Brigitte. "Come, my dear, let your wiles
obtain from him what he might refuse me; urge him to give us six weeks
of his time. We will travel together, and after a tour of Switzerland he
will return to his duties with new life."

Brigitte joined her entreaties to mine, although she knew it was only
a joke on my part. Smith could not leave Paris without danger of losing
his position, and replied that he regretted being obliged to deny
himself the pleasure of accompanying us. Nevertheless I continued
to press him, and, ordering another bottle of wine, I repeated my
invitation. After dinner I went out to assure myself that my orders were
carried out; then I returned in high spirits, and seating myself at the
piano I proposed some music.

"Let us pass the evening here," I said; "believe me, it is better than
going to the theatre; I can not take part myself, but I can listen. We
will make Smith play if he tires of our company, and the time will pass
pleasantly."

Brigitte consented with good grace and began singing for us; Smith
accompanied her on the violoncello. The materials for a bowl of punch
were brought and the flame of burning rum soon cheered us with varied
lights. The piano was abandoned for the table; then we had cards;
everything passed off as I wished and we succeeded in diverting
ourselves to my heart's content.

I had my eyes fixed on the clock and waited impatiently for the hands to
mark the hour of ten. I was tormented with anxiety, but allowed them to
see nothing. Finally the hour arrived; I heard the postilion's whip as
the horses entered the court. Brigitte was seated near me; I took her by
the hand and aske