For a little while to come, I should like you to repeat your experiments with firearms at a distance from the house.

Is--is that the new kind of rifle ?" she inquired, with the timidity of a child introduced to the new watchdog.
"Yes, madame!" and his eyes blazing with pride, he proceeded, as he crossed the room and returned with the firearm, "it is altogether a new invention.

Master is an innovator, indeed!" "Do you object to showing it to me ?" continued Cesarine, pleased that the enthusiasm gave an excuse for her not entering into an explanation of her absence which, even if more plausible than that Hedwig had doubtingly received, would require all of Antonino's affectionate faith in her to win credence.

"I do not object.

Even those experienced in the old weapons can inspect it and not learn much," he went on, with the same pride; "but I thought it frightened you!" "It did--it does, but I ought to overcome such a ridiculous feeling! I, above all women, being a gun-inventor's wife! Is it loaded ?" she asked, while hesitatingly holding out her hand to take it.
Hedwig had prudently backed over to the window which she held a little open to make a leap out for escape in case of accident.