know what it is about?'

'Yes, I do. My brother got it by some mistake among some French
books. He read some of the droll unobjectionable parts to my sister
and me, but the rest was so bad, that he threw it into the fire.'

'Then you think it funny?'

'To be sure I do.'

'Do you remember the three duels all at once, and the three valets?
Oh! what fun it is. But do let me see if d'Artagnan got the
diamonds.'

'Yes, he did. But will this satisfy you, Gilbert? You know there
are some exciting pleasures that we must turn our backs on
resolutely. I think this book is one of them. Now you will let me
take it? I will tell your father about it in private, and he cannot
blame you. Then, if he will give his consent, whenever you can come
home early, come to my dressing-room, out of your sisters' way, and I
will read to you the innocent part, so as to get the story out of
your brain.'

'Very well,' said Gilbert, slowly. 'Yes, if you will not let papa be
angry with me. And, oh dear! must you go?'

'I think you had better dress yourself and come down to tea. There
is nothing the matter with you now, is there?'

He was delighted with the suggestion, and promised to come directly;