Of course she ought to be informed of my previous history; but I should prefer to have her consider it strictly confidential.

And now, if you please, I will say, _An revoir_; for Papa Balbino is waiting for some instructions on matters of business." She offered her hand with a very sweet smile.

He clasped it with a slight pressure, bowed his head upon it for an instant, and said, with deep emotion: "Thank you, dearest of women.

You send me away a happy man; for hope goes with me." When the door closed after him, she sank into a chair, and covered her face with both her hands.

"How different is his manner of making love from that of Gerald," thought she.