It had
been installed in the little court, under a kind of alcove that
Maurice had made for it. He had found in his aunt's "reliquary" some
pretty hangings which hid the alcove, and the picture lost nothing by
the arrangement of drapery.
"You have indeed a beautiful portrait there," said the Princess
sincerely. "Every year for his birthday I give my husband some work of
art. If you do not find me too unworthy a subject it shall be signed
this year, 'Maurice Renaud.'"
The young man bowed. "I shall be very happy indeed, Madame, and very
highly honoured."
"Then, as our friend and collaborator," said the Duchess, "you must, I
think, come with us at once so as to be able to get to work with the
Duke without delay."
"Give me time to pack by bag, Madame," returned the triumphant
Maurice, "and I will join you at the carriage."
"I will come and help with your packing, cousin. You will excuse me?"
she added turning to the Princess.
And Esperance, followed by Genevieve and Jean Perliez disappeared
together.
As soon as she was sure she was out of ear-shot Esperance threw her
arms about her cousin's neck. "You were simply wonderful."
"Yes," joined in Maurice, "the enemy has fallen into the ambush, as
Baron van Berger would say. I will be back as soon as possible, but I
must take time to rout our amiable Duke. He is the real enemy, and the
most difficult opponent, but I am confident. With my most diabolical
scheming, little cousin, I am going to have great fun.
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