“And on that day, Daniel, I promise you, if my father still withholds
his consent, I will ask you openly for your arm; and then, in broad
daylight, before all the world, I shall leave this house never to
re-enter it again.”
As quick as thought, Daniel had seized her hand, and, carrying it to his
lips, he said,--“Thanks! A thousand thanks! You restore me to hope.”
Still, before abandoning the effort, he thought he would try one more
measure; and for that purpose it was necessary that Henrietta should be
induced to conceal her intentions as long as possible. It was only with
great difficulty that he succeeded in obtaining her consent.
“I will do what you desire; but believe me, all your efforts will be in
vain.”
She was interrupted by the arrival of Count Ville-Handry. He kissed
his daughter, said a few words about rain and fine weather; and then,
drawing Daniel into one of the windows, he asked--
“Have you spoken to her?”
“Yes.”
“Well?”
“Miss Henrietta wants a few days to consider.”