He will let me see my boy." All this, and the tearful eyes and coaxing yet trembling voice, was hard to resist.

But Aubertin saw clearly, and stood firm.

He put his handkerchief to his eyes a moment: then took the pining young mother's hand.

"And, do you think," said he, "I do not pity you and love your boy?
Ah! he will never want a father whilst I live; and from this moment he is under my care.

I will go to see him; I will bring you news, and all in good time; I will place him where you shall visit him without imprudence; but, for the present, trust a wiser head than yours or Rose's; and give me your sacred promise not to go to Frejus." Weighed down by his good-sense and kindness, Josephine resisted no longer in words.