Then removing the handkerchief from his face, he ran his fingers vigorously through his hair, till it stood up frantically round his brow, drew the sleeves of his coat strenuously over his wrists, and straightening himself to his tall height, seemed resolved to be a man once more.

I smiled afterwards, when I recollected his figure; but I did not then,--thank heaven, I did not smile then,--I would not have done it for "the crown the Bourbons lost." Anxious to close a scene so painful, I approached the door though with a lingering, hesitating step.

I wanted to say something, but knew not what to utter.
"You will let me be your friend still," said he, taking my hand in both his.

"You will not think worse of me, for a weakness which has so much to excuse it.

And, Gabriella, my dear child, should the time ever come, when you need a friend and counsellor, should the sky so bright now be darkened with clouds, remember there is one who would willingly die to save you from sorrow or evil.