He had never married, and he was unprepared to make any statement on such a theme; but now, having made it somehow, he would stand by it, in spite of any and all criticism.

He had known Rosalie since her birth, her education was as good as a convent could secure, she was the granddaughter of a notable seigneur, and here she was, as fine a type of health, beauty and character as man could wish--and he was only fifty! Life was getting lonelier for him every day, and, after all, why should he leave distant relations and the Church his worldly goods?
All this flashed through his mind as he waited for her answer.

Now it seemed to him that he had meant to say this thing for many years.

He had seen an awakening in her--he had suddenly been awakened himself.
"Monsieur, Monsieur," she said in a bewildered way, "do not amuse yourself at my expense." "Would it be that, then ?" he said, with a smile, behind which there was determination and self-will.

"I want you to marry me; I do with all my heart.