I did not know that I would give it to you to-night, but I have a strange foreboding that it is destined to be my last on earth.

And, Leoline my child, before I leave you, let me hear you say you will not hate me when you read what is there." "What have you done to me?
Why should I hate you ?" "Ah! you will find that all out soon enough.

Do content me, Leoline--let me hear you say; `La Masque, whatever you've done to me, however you have wronged me, I will forgive you!' Can you say that ?" Leoline repeated it simply, like a little child.

La Masque took her hand, held it between both her own, leaned over and looked earnestly in her face.
"My little Leoline! my beautiful rosebud! May Heaven bless you and grant you a long and happy life with--shall I say it, Leoline ?" "Please--no!" whispered Leoline, shyly.
La Masque softly patted the little tremulous hand.
"We are both saying the name now in our hearts, my dear, so it is little matter whether our lips repeat it or not.

He is worthy, of you, Leoline, and your life will be a happy one by his side; but there is another." She paused and lowered her voice.