She is _chez nous_. Of wealth and
distinction, yes, she has traveled in this country merely for
divertisement--but the Countess St. Auban, yes, she pauses now
with the cooper, Hector Fournier! Does one find such beauty, such
distinction, such gentleness, such kindness, such courteousness
elsewhere than among the nobility?"
"When did she come?" demanded Dunwody quietly.
"But yesterday, upon the boat; without announcement. She is at
this very moment at my house yonder, busy with that baby, Josephine
St. Auban Jeanne Marie Fournier, named for a countess! But do not
turn back! Monsieur himself has not yet seen the baby. Come!"
For one moment Dunwody paused; then, quietly, he accompanied
Hector, making no comment. He limped just slightly. He was
older--yes, and graver.
The mother of Hector met them even before the gate was opened. Her
voice called to the door her daughter Jeanne, who was shaking hands
with Dunwody before he was half way up the walk. The ejaculations
of Jeanne attracted yet another ear farther within the house.
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