t of the scrape. He could concoct some story for Wilkie's benefit,
and that would be the end of it. But on the other hand, there was the
prospect of netting at least five hundred thousand francs--a fortune--a
competency, and the idea was too tempting to be relinquished.

So on Monday morning, at about ten o'clock, he presented himself at
Wilkie's house, looking pale with anxiety, and far more solemn in manner
than usual. "Let us say but little, and that to the point," he remarked
on entering. "The secret I am about to reveal to you will make you rich;
but it might ruin me if it were known that you obtained this information
through me. You will therefore swear, upon your honor as a gentleman,
never to betray me, under any circumstances, or for any reason."

M. Wilkie extended his hand and solemnly exclaimed: "I swear!"

"Very well, then. Now my mind is at rest. It is scarcely necessary for
me to add that if you break your faith you are a dead man. You know me.
You know how I handle a sword; and don't forget it." His manner was so
threatening that Wilkie shuddered. "You will certainly be questioned,"
continued M. de Coralth; "but you must reply that you received the
information through one of Mr. Patterson's friends. Now let us sign our
formal contract in lieu of the temporary one you gave me the other day."

It is needless to say that Wilkie signed it eagerly. Not so the
viscount; he read the document through carefully, before appending his
signature, and then exclaimed: "The estate that belongs to you is that
of the Count de Chalusse, your uncle. He leaves, I am informed, at least
eight or ten millions of property."

By M. Wilkie's excited gestures, by the glitter in his eyes, it might
have been supposed that this wonderful good fortune was too much for
him, and that he was going mad. "I knew that I belonged to a noble
family," he began. "The Count de Chalusse my uncle! I shall have a
coronet on the corner of my visiting cards."

But with a gesture M. de Coralth silenced him. "Wait a little before
you rejoice," said he. "Yes, your mother is the sister of the Count
de Chalusse, and it is through her that you are an heir to the estate.
But--don't grieve too much--there are similar misfortunes in many of our
most distinguished families--circumstances--the obstinacy of parents--a
love more powerful than reason----" The viscount paused, certainly he
had no prejudices; but at the moment of telling this interesting young