We are now almost travelling companions, and I
hope you will come with me to Mayenne."
Mother and son hesitated, and seemed to consult each other's faces.
"I am not sure, mademoiselle," said the young man, "that it is prudent
in me to tell you that interests of the highest importance require our
presence to-night in the neighborhood of Fougeres, and we have not yet
been able to find a means of conveyance; but women are so naturally
generous that I am ashamed not to confide in you. Nevertheless," he
added, "before putting ourselves in your hands, I ought to know
whether we shall get out of them safe and sound. In short,
mademoiselle, are you the sovereign or the slave of your Republican
escort? Pardon my frankness, but your position does not seem to me
exactly natural--"
"We live in times, monsieur, when nothing takes place naturally. You
can accept my proposal without anxiety. Above all," she added,
emphasizing her words, "you need fear no treachery in an offer made by
a woman who has no part in political hatreds."
"A journey thus made is not without danger," he said, with a look
which gave significance to that commonplace remark.
"What is it you fear?" she answered, smiling sarcastically. "I see no
peril for any one."
"Is this the woman who a moment ago shared my desires in her eyes?"
thought the young man.
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