He never shall know the truth while he lives. Once recognized, Isabel
Valois cannot be defeated in her fortune. Marie is dead. The only
one who might wish to prove the change of the two children, Hardin
himself, knows not. He must take her word. She is invincible.
Pere Francois becomes a greater comfort to her daily. The graceful
priest brings with him an air of peace into the gaudy palace on
the Elysees. She softens daily.
Raoul Dauvray has finished the artistic labors of his commissions.
He is now only an occasional visitor. If he has the love of the
heiress he dares not claim her yet. The fiery Zouave chafes in vain.
Natalie holds him off. Pere Francois whispers, "Wait and hope!"
With the blindness of preoccupation, Natalie sees not how the
tendrils of "first love" have filled the girl's heart. The young
soldier-artist rules that gentle bosom. Love finds its ways of
commune. Marriage seems impossible for years. Isabel must mount
her "golden throne" before suitors can come to woo. A sculptor!
The idea is absurd.
Not a single trace is left of "Louise Moreau." Natalie's lip curls
as she fathoms the motive of the girl's disappearance. Friends of
Marie Berard's have probably secreted her, as a part of the old
scheme of blackmail upon her.
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