administer), and undertakes to make over my fortune to my eldest son
when he comes of age. Now, sir, this I must tell you: I should be
afraid to have that precious document in my own keeping. My boy is so
fond of his mother, that I cannot trust him with it. So dare I beg of
you to keep it for me? In case of death, Gobseck would make you
legatee of my property. Every contingency is provided for.'

"The Count paused for a moment. He seemed greatly agitated.

"'A thousand pardons,' he said at length; 'I am in great pain, and
have very grave misgivings as to my health. Recent troubles have
disturbed me very painfully, and forced me to take this great step.'

"'Allow me first to thank you, monsieur,' said I, 'for the trust you
place me in. But I am bound to deserve it by pointing out to you that
you are disinheriting your--other children. They bear your name.
Merely as the children of a once-loved wife, now fallen from her
position, they have a claim to an assured existence. I tell you
plainly that I cannot accept the trust with which you propose to honor
me unless their future is secured.'

"The Count trembled violently at the words, and tears came into his
eyes as he grasped my hand, saying, 'I did not know my man thoroughly.
You have made me both glad and sorry. We will make provision for the
children in the counter-deed.'

"I went with him to the door; it seemed to me that there was a glow of
satisfaction in his face at the thought of this act of justice.

"Now, Camille, this is how a young wife takes the first step to the