The godfather examined the bracelet set
with sapphires and diamonds. He put on his glasses, counted the
stones, shook his head and grunted, "It is a superb bracelet, do you
realize that, child?"
"I realize that it is superb because it is a testimony of good will
offered by this kind Sovereign. That is what makes it so valuable to
me."
"What a haughty child!"
And Adhemar began to laugh, the laugh with which realism strives to
destroy dreams. Mlle. Frahender gently removed the bracelet from the
hands of the objectionable old meddler.
"You must rest and avoid excitement, dear, dear child," she said,
leading Esperance to her room, after bowing to Adhemar. Maurice and
Jean, who had witnessed the godfather's want of tact, reasoned with
him.
"In my opinion, M. Meydieux, you annoy my cousin too much, and for no
reason. You forget that she has created for herself a position beyond
her years, and you treat her like a child not out of the school-room."
"Well, isn't it all for her good?" screamed out Adhemar in a fury.
"The rest of you burn incense before her; she will be destroyed by
pride and that will be your fault!"
"No such thing," returned Maurice with equal energy. "She is adorable
in her simplicity and has remained as really childlike, as trusting
and light-hearted as anyone in the world. You cast a gloom on her
spirits, you try to curb her spontaneity, you want her bourgeoisie
like yourself, but you will never succeed, I give you my word for it,
and that is a blessing.
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