It is only his way! My poor dear husband used to be quite vexed with him sometimes, though he WAS so fond of him.

But, conte, as you know so much about the family, I am sure you will like to see my little Stella.

Shall I send for her, or are you bored by children ?" "On the contrary, madame, I am fond of them," I answered, with forced composure, though my heart throbbed with mingled delight and agony at the thought of seeing my little one again.

"And the child of my old friend's son must needs have a double interest for me." My wife rang the bell, and gave orders to the maid who answered it to send her little girl to her at once.

Ferrari meanwhile engaged me in conversation, and strove, I could see, by entire deference to my opinions, to make up for any offense his previous remark might have given.