[Jasmin: Barber by Samuel Smiles]@TWC D-Link book
Jasmin: Barber

CHAPTER IX
12/39

Her father was a banished Huguenot, but beauty of person sets differences of belief at defiance.
The village lads praised her and tried to win her affections; but, like beauties in general, surrounded by admirers, she was a bit of a flirt.
At length two rivals appeared--one Marcel, a soldier under Montluc, favoured by Franconnette's grandmother, and Pascal, the village blacksmith, favoured by the girl herself.

One Sunday afternoon a number of young men and maidens assembled at the foot of Montluc's castle of Estellac on the votive festival of St.Jacques at Roquefort.
Franconnette was there, as well as Marcel and Pascal, her special admirers.

Dancing began to the music of the fife; but Pascal, the handsomest of the young men, seemed to avoid the village beauty.
Franconnette was indignant at his neglect, but was anxious to secure his attention and devotion.

She danced away, sliding, whirling, and pirouetting.

What would not the admiring youths have given to impress two kisses on her lovely cheek!{3} In these village dances, it is the custom for the young men to kiss their partners, if they can tire them out; but in some cases, when the girl is strong; and an accomplished dancer, she declines to be tired until she wishes to cease dancing.


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