I shall feel more comfortable if I have got ready for the worst." Although Philip laughed at the fears of Pierre, he was yet impressed by what he had said; for he had come to rely very much upon the shrewdness of observation of his follower.

When, however, he went that evening to the Count de Valecourt's, he saw that there was no tinge of such feeling in the minds of the Huguenots present.
The only face that had an unusual look was that of Claire.
Apparently she was gayer than usual, and laughed and talked more than was her wont; but Philip saw that this mood was not a natural one, and felt sure that something had happened.

Presently, when he passed near her, she made room for him on the settee beside her.
[Illustration: You have not heard the news, Monsieur Philip ?] "You have not heard the news, Monsieur Philip ?" "No, mademoiselle, I have heard no particular news." "I am glad of it.

I would rather tell you myself.

My father has, today, laid his commands on me to marry the Sieur de Pascal." Philip could not trust himself to speak.