gentleman. He
is, notwithstanding, one of the most powerful men in France, and intends
to be more, powerful still when his niece and her young husband ascend
the throne. But come; the party are moving, on, and as Constance de
Tourville is lingering behind, we can quickly overtake her, and when I
have made you known to her, you can tell her of your wish to see the
admiral."

Nigel felt very unwilling to quit his hiding-place, but his cousin,
taking him by the hand, playfully led him forward. They quickly
overtook the interesting girl of whom they had been speaking. Nigel, as
he was introduced, made a bow which would not have disgraced the most
polished gentleman at court. The young lady smiled as she cast a glance
at his handsome, honest countenance, with the glow of health on it,
increased somewhat by the blush which rose on finding himself in
circumstances so unusual to him.

"My cousin Nigel Melvin has come with an introduction to the admiral,
who is, I understand, staying with your father, and he desires to set
out to the chateau, though I would fain persuade him to take service at
the court, instead of tempting the dangers of the sea, which he has the
extraordinary taste to desire."

"Our house steward, Maitre Leroux, is at present in Paris, and will
return to-morrow; and should your cousin desire his escort, I will
direct him to await his orders," said the young lady in a sweet voice.
"Where are you lodging, fair sir?"

"I arrived but this morning, and left my valise at L'Auberge de l'Ange,"
answered Nigel.

"I know not where that is; but Maitre Leroux will easily find it out,
and will call for you at any hour you may name."

"A thousand thanks, lady, for your kindness," answered Nigel, "I gladly
accept your offer, and shall be ready to set out at early dawn if the
landlord will permit me to depart at that hour."

"Maitre Leroux will be at the palace this evening to receive a letter I
am sending home, and I will direct him to call as you desire, though, as
he loves his ease, he perchance may not be ready to commence the journey
at quite so early an hour as you name."

While Constance was speaking, one of the ladies in attendance on the
young queen turned back and beckoned to Mary Seton, who, hurrying
forward, left Nigel with her friend.

"You will surely not take your cousin's advice, and seek for a post at
this frivolous court," said Constance hurriedly, again looking up at
Nigel's countenance.