Andrea would tell his father-in-law of the marriage later in the day; and
for all I am not a chicken-hearted man, still I had no stomach to be at
hand when the storm broke.
The moment having come for my departure, and Michelot awaiting me already
with the horses in the courtyard, M. de Canaples left us to seek the letter
which I was to carry to his Eminence. So soon as the door had closed upon
him, Andrea came forward, leading his bride by the hand, and asked me to
wish them happiness.
"With all my heart," I answered; "and if happiness be accorded you in a
measure with the fervency of my wishes then shall you, indeed, be happy.
Each of you I congratulate upon the companion in life you have chosen.
Cherish him, Mademoi--Madame, for he is loyal and true--and such are rare
in this world."
It is possible that I might have said more in this benign and fatherly
strain--for it seemed to me that this new role I had assumed suited me
wondrous well--but a shadow that drew our eyes towards the nearest window
interrupted me. And what we saw there drew a cry from Andrea, a shudder
from Genevi?ve, and from me a gasp that was half amazement, half dismay.
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