Your mother and I have no need for it, and it would take away half her pleasure in her work, were the earnings not used partly for your advantage." The ship made a quick run to La Rochelle, and the next morning Philip rode for Laville.

He had not been there since the battle of Moncontour; and although he knew that it had been burnt by the Royalists, shortly afterwards, it gave him a shock to see, as he rode through the gate, how great a change had taken place.

The central portion had been repaired, but the walls were still blackened with smoke.

The wings stood empty and roofless, and the ample stables, storehouses, and buildings for the retainers had disappeared.
His aunt received him with great kindness, and Francois was delighted to see him again.
"Yes, it is a change, Philip," the countess said, as she saw his eyes glancing round the apartment.

"However, I have grown accustomed to it, and scarce notice it now.