It would be graver still if he were to marry her--" "But the daughter's infirm ?" "Yes, and you know what would be said: A Quinsac marrying a monster for the sake of her millions." This was their mutual terror.

They knew everything that went on at the Duvillards, the affectionate friendship of the uncomely Camille and the handsome Gerard, the seeming idyll beneath which lurked the most awful of dramas.

And they protested with all their indignation.

"Oh! that, no, no, never!" the Countess declared.

"My son in that family, no, I will never consent to it." Just at that moment General de Bozonnet entered.