My lungs are gone, and you are well quit of me, and I of a foolish undertaking, though of a charming bride.

Now, go your way, child, and take up your maiden dreams again, for all me." Madelon looked at him proudly, although she was half dazed by what she heard.

"I care nothing for all the fine things you have shown me," said she, "and I have told you truly always that I do not care for you, but I will keep my promise to marry you unless you yourself bid me to break it." "I bid you to break it," said Lot, steadily, and his eyes met hers, and his old mocking smile played over his white face.

Then suddenly he bent over with his racking cough, and Madelon made a step towards him, but he motioned her away.

"Good-night--child," he gasped out.
Then Madelon had gone home and told her father and brothers, and thought their strange reception of the news due to anything but the truth.