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_The Helmet._

From the French by Ferdinand Beissier.


[Illustration]


"But, uncle--I love my cousin!"

"Get out!"

"Give her to me."

"Don't bother me!"

"It will be my death!"

"Nonsense! you'll console yourself with some other girl."

"Pray--"

My uncle, whose back had been towards me, whirled round, his face red to
bursting, and brought his closed fist down upon the counter with a
heavy thump.