They have travelled fast." Taking Claire's hand, he led her up the steps; and just as he entered the hall the countess, to whom the news of his approach had been carried, met him.
"Aunt," he said, "I confide this lady to your loving care.

It is Mademoiselle de Valecourt, now my affianced wife.

I have bad news to tell you; but I pray you lead her first to a chamber, for she is sore wearied and in much grief." "Francois is not dead ?" the countess exclaimed in a low voice, paling to the lips.
"I trust not, aunt.

I have no reason for believing that he is." "I will wait here, Philip, with the countess's permission," Claire said.

"It is better that you should not keep her in suspense, even for a moment, on my account." "I thank you, mademoiselle," the countess said, as she led the girl to a couch.