But my ways are not the ways of Levasseur, who should have stayed in Europe, and practised purse-cutting.

I have a sort of honour--shall we say, some rags of honour ?--remaining me from better days." Then on a brisker note he added: "We dine in an hour, and I trust that you will honour my table with your company.

Meanwhile, Benjamin will see, monsieur, that you are more suitably provided in the matter of wardrobe." He bowed to them, and turned to depart again, but mademoiselle detained him.
"Monsieur!" she cried sharply.
He checked and turned, whilst slowly she approached him, regarding him between dread and wonder.
"Oh, you are noble!" "I shouldn't put it as high as that myself," said he.
"You are, you are! And it is but right that you should know all." "Madelon!" her brother cried out, to restrain her.
But she would not be restrained.

Her surcharged heart must overflow in confidence.
"Monsieur, for what befell I am greatly at fault.

This man--this Levasseur...." He stared, incredulous in his turn.