sight of me must be, I will hasten to relieve you from it."

These last words touched me, and restored me in a degree to my
natural good temper.

"Brigitta," said I to her, "after the little affection you have
ever manifested for me, it would be impossible as well as unwise
to take you into my service; but let me know in what way I can
best promote the interest of yourself and husband, and I pledge
myself to accomplish it for you."

"I thank you, madam," answered she, resuming her accustomed
haughtiness, "I came to solicit a situation near the person of the
comtesse du Barry. Since that is refused me, I have nothing more
to request."

"Be it as you please," replied I. Brigitta made a low courtesy,
and quitted the room.

Henriette, who had been the witness of this scene, expressed her
apprehensions that I should be displeased with her for introducing
an unwelcome visitor to me. "No," cried I, "'tis not with you I
am vexed., but myself."

"And why so, dear madam?"

"Because I reproach myself with having in my own prosperity
forgotten one of my earliest and dearest friends, who loved me
with the tenderest affection. Possibly she may now be in trouble
or difficulties, from which I might have a thousand ways of