Count Albert Styvens came three times a week to pursue his
philosophic studies with Professor Darbois. This arrangement had been
contrived by the hypocrite, Adhemar Meydieux. He did not mistake the
Count's infatuation for his goddaughter. A marriage of such wealth and
aristocratic connections flattered his foolish egoism, and he was
sworn to attempt everything that would bring about such a magnificent
consummation.
A friend of the family, Doctor Bertaud, noticed alarming symptoms in
the girl, most prevalent between five and seven o'clock each evening.
He could not ascertain the cause, but persuaded the philosopher to
take her to Doctor Potain, a celebrated heart specialist. Madame
Darbois took Esperance for an examination.
Francois was perfectly amazed by the deep culture of the Count, who at
first sight seemed of only average intelligence. When the family
gathered together for dinner, he commented on his impressions to his
wife and daughter.
"This young man is a very remarkable personality," he said, "very
difficult to penetrate, yet nevertheless very sincere. I do not
believe that the slightest untruth has ever crossed his lips. I enjoy
working with him. Ah! that reminds me, I have invited him to dine with
us on Thursday. He is very anxious to be presented to you, and
Esperance already knows him, so I thought you would find it
agreeable."
The young girl trembled. Her blood seemed to stop in her veins.
Pages:
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91