between him and his son,--'Marie, my dear, I take it for--granted--
there is nothing to--to--to interrupt our plans.'

'In what way, uncle?' she asked, merely wanting to gain a moment for
thought.

'In any way. In no way. Just say that there is nothing wrong, and
that will be sufficient.' She stood silent, not having a word to
say to him. 'You know what I mean, Marie. You intend to marry
Adrian Urmand?'

'I suppose so,' said Marie in a low whisper.

'Look here, Marie,--if there be any doubt about it, we will part,--
and for ever. You shall never look upon my face again. My honour
is pledged,--and yours.' Then he hurried out of the room, down into
the kitchen, and without staying there a moment went out into the
yard, and walked through to the stables. His passion had been so
strong and uncontrollable, that he had been unable to remain with
his niece and exact a promise from her.

George, when he saw his father go through to the stables, entered
the house. He had already made up his mind that he would return at
once to Colmar, without waiting to have more angry words. Such
words would serve him not at all. But he must if possible see
Marie, and he must also tell his stepmother that he was about to
depart. He found them both together, and at once, very abruptly,
declared that he was to start immediately.

'You have quarrelled with your father, George,' said Madame Voss.