OR THE BALL DRESS. 117

‘What ! do you mean my daughter to be his wife ?

‘Yes, madam, his and my happiness depend on
your answer. They must get time and opportunity
to know each other better; and if he is fortunate
enough to gain your good opinion, all my wishes will
be realized,’

This was plain enough speaking, certainly. Ma-
dame Palmene said she felt much flattered at his pre-
ference. However, she would hear of no engagement
before consulting her child more particularly, and
making herself better acquainted with his son’s dis-
position.

Some time after this the Count asked again for her
answer, and, from all that she could see or hear, she
did not hésitate to give it in the affirmative ; and so
‘the marriage-contract was signed. In the course of
a few days Leonce and Eugenie were married, and
left Paris at once for their home, which was situated
about ten miles out of the city; and it was decided
that they should not come back to the capital until
the end of August.

Madame Palmene accompanied them, and remained
three months, at the end of which time she was
obliged to return home to settle some business

affairs.