The party arrived, therefore, after dark, without being noticed by the castle retinue, at the little dwelling on the seashore, so long occupied by the hated son, where Bertrand, the only person the doctor had taken into his confidence, awaited them.

The old retainer helped the nurse and valet to unload the horses and carry in the baggage, and otherwise establish the daughter of Beauvouloir in Etienne's former abode.

When Bertrand saw Gabrielle, he was amazed.
"I seem to see madame!" he cried.

"She is slim and willowy like her; she has madame's coloring and the same fair hair.

The old duke will surely love her." "God grant it!" said Beauvouloir.