My wife will make your stay in our house as agreeable as possible.

I advise you to say nothing of the matter and not to appear anxious or unhappy." Now that Zelie had confessed and was safely immured, the magistrate sent for Desire, told him all the particulars of his father's theft, which was really to Ursula's injury, but, as matters stood, legally to that of his co-heirs, and showed him the letter written by his mother.

Desire at once asked to be allowed to go to Nemours and see that his father made immediate restitution.
"It is a very serious matter," said the magistrate.

"The will having been destroyed, if the matter gets wind, the co-heirs, Massin and Cremiere may put in a claim.

I have proof enough against your father.
I will release your mother, for I think the little ceremony that has already taken place has been sufficient warning as to her duty.