as I have said; but now, here in the open, in public, before the
eyes of all, who am I, and who are you to me? I am not your
mother?"

"Scarcely, at twenty three or four." He pursed a judicial lip.

"Nor your sister?"

"No."

[Illustration: The _Mount Vernon_]

"Nor your wife?"

"No." He flushed here, although he answered simply.

"Nor your assistant in any way?"

His face lighted suddenly.

"Why not?" said he. "Can't you be my amanuensis,--that sort of
thing, you see? Come, we must think of this. This is where my
conscience hurts me--I can't bear to have _my_ duty hurt _you_.
That, my dear Countess, cuts me to the quick. You will believe
that, won't you?"

"Yes, I believe that. Jeanne," she motioned to her maid who stood
apart all this time, "my wrap, please. I find the air cool. When
the body is weak or worn, my dear sir, the mind is not at its best;
and I shall need all my wits."