_This Edition is Strictly Limited toOne Thousand Numbered Copiesfor Mature Collectors ofLiterary CuriosaNo. 899. _

_French and OrientalLove in a Harem_

_by_

MARIO UCHARD

_with Decorations byPaul Avril_

[Illustration]

_Privately Issuedby_ FALSTAFF PRESSNEW YORK

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CHAPTER I. 

_Château de Férouzat_, . .. , 18. .. 

No indeed, my dear Louis, I am neither dead nor ruined, nor have Iturned pirate, trappist, or rural guard, as you might imagine in orderto explain my silence these four months since I last appeared at yourillustrious studio. No, you witty giber, my fabulous heritage has nottaken wings! I am dwelling neither in China on the Blue River, nor inRed Oceania, nor in White Lapland. My yacht, built of teak, still liesin harbour, and is not swaying me over the vasty deep. It is no goodyour spinning out laborious and far-fetched hyperboles on the subject ofmy uncle's will: your ironical shafts all miss the mark. My uncle's willsurpasses the most astonishing feat of its kind ever accomplished bynotary's pen; and your poor imagination could not invent, or comeanywhere near inventing, such remarkable adventures as those into whichthis registered document has led me. 

First of all, in order that your feeble intellect may be enabled to riseto the level of the subject, I must give you some description of "theCorsair, " as you called him after you met him in Paris last winter; forit is only by comprehending the peculiarities of his life and characterthat you can ever hope to understand my adventures. 

Unfortunately, at this very point, a considerable difficulty arises, formy uncle still remains and always will remain a sort of legendarypersonage. Born at Marseilles, he was left an orphan at about the age offourteen, alone in the world with one little sister still in the cradle, whom he brought up, and who subsequently became my mother: hence histender regard for me. Nevertheless, and notwithstanding the fact that wetwo constituted the whole family, I only saw him during the intervals onshore of his sea-faring life. Endowed with truly remarkable qualitiesand with an energy that recognized no obstacles, he was the best fellowin the world, as you must have observed for yourself; but certainly hewas also, from what I know of him, a most original character. I don'tbelieve that in the course of his eventful career, he ever did a singleact like other men, unless, may be, in the getting of children--yet eventhese were only his "god-children. " He has left fourteen in theDepartment of Le Gard, scattered over the different estates on which helived by turns after he had quitted the East; and we may well believe hewould not have stopped short at that number, but that four months ago, as he was returning from the South Pole, he happened to die of asunstroke, at the age of sixty-three. This last touch completes thepicture of his life. As to his history, all that is known of it isconfined to the following facts:

At the age of twenty-two my uncle turned Turk, from politicalconviction. This happened under the Bourbons. The character of hisservices in Turkey during the contests between Mehemet Ali and theSultan was never very clear, and I fancy he was rather muddled aboutthem himself, for he served both these princes by turns with equalcourage and equal devotion. As it happened, he was on the side ofIbrahim at the time that the latter defeated the Turks at the battle ofKonieh; but being carried away in that desperate charge which he himselfled, and which decided the victory, my unfortunate uncle suffered thedisgrace of falling wounded into the hands of the vanquished party. Being a prisoner to Kurchid-Pasha, and his wound having soon healed, hewas expecting to be impaled, when, to his great joy, his punishment wascommuted to that of the galleys. There he remained three years withoutsucceeding in effecting his escape, when one fine day he found hisservices in request just at the right time by the Sultan, who appointedhim Pasha, giving him a command in the Syrian wars. What circumstancewas it that cut short his political career? How was it that he obtainedfrom the Pope the title of Count of the Holy Empire? Nobody knows. 

All that is certain is that Barbassou-Pasha, tired of his honours andhaving returned two years since to settle down in Provence, started offone morning for Africa, on a ship that he had bought at Toulon. Henceforth he devoted himself to the spice trade. 

It was after one of these voyages that he published his celebratedontological monograph upon the negro races, a work which created somestir and gained for him a most flattering report from the Academy. 

These leading events of his Odyssey being known, the more private factsand deeds of the life of Barbassou-Pasha are lost in obscurity. As forhis physical characteristics, you will remember the great Marseillaissix-foot high, with sinewy frame and muscles of steel; your mind's eyecan picture still the formidable, bearded face, the savage and terribleeye, the rough voice, the complete type in short of "the pirate at hisease, " as you used to say, when laughing sometimes at his quiet humour. After all, an easy-going soul, and the best of uncles!

As for my own recollections, so far back as they go, the following isall I have ever known of him. Being continually at sea, he had placed meat school quite young. One year, while at his château at Férouzat, hesent for me during the holidays. I was six years old, and saw him forthe first time. He held me up in his arms to examine my face andfeatures, then turning me gently round in the air, he felt my sides, after which--satisfied, no doubt, as to my build--he put me down againwith great care, as if afraid of breaking me. 

"Kiss your aunt!" he said. 

I obeyed him. 

My aunt at that time was a very handsome young woman of twenty-two totwenty-four, a brunette with great black, almond-shaped eyes, and finefeatures on a perfect oval face. She placed me on her knees and coveredme with kisses, lavishing on me the most tender expressions, among whichshe mingled words of a foreign language which sounded like music, sosweet and harmonious was her voice. I conceived a great affection forher. My uncle let me do just as I liked, and allowed no hindrances to beput in my way. Thus it happened that at the end of my holidays I did notwant to return to school again, and should certainly have succeeded ingetting my way, if it had not been that Barbassou-Pasha's ship waswaiting for him at Toulon. 

You may imagine with what joy I returned to Férouzat the next year. Myuncle welcomed me with the same delight, and betook himself to the sameexamination of my physical structure. When his anxieties were satisfied, he said to me--

"Kiss your aunt!"

I kissed my aunt: but, as I kissed her, I was rather surprised to findher very much altered. She had become fair and pink-complexioned. Acertain firm and youthful plumpness, which suited her remarkably well, gave her the appearance of a girl of eighteen. Being more bashful thanat our former interview, she tendered me her fresh cheeks with a blush. I noticed also that her accent had undergone a modification, and nowvery much resembled the accent of one of my school-fellows who wasDutch. As I expressed my surprise at these changes, my uncle informed methat they had just returned from Java. This explanation sufficed for me, I did not ask any more questions, and henceforth I accustomed myselfevery year to the various metamorphoses of my aunt. The metamorphosiswhich pleased me the least was that which she contracted after a voyageto Bourbon, from which she returned a mulattress, but without ceasingstill to be remarkably handsome. My uncle, it should be mentioned, wasalways very good to her, and I have never known a happier household. 

Unfortunately Barbassou-Pasha, being engaged in important affairs, stayed away three years, and when I returned to Férouzat, he kissed meand received me by himself. When I asked after my aunt, he told me thathe was a widower. As this misfortune did not appear to affect him veryseriously, I made up my mind to treat it with the same indifference thathe did. 

Since that time I never saw any woman at the château, except once in anisolated part of the park, where I met two shadowy beings, closely andmysteriously veiled. They were taking a walk, accompanied by an oldfellow of singular aspect, clothed in a long robe with a _tarbouch_ onhis head, who greatly excited my curiosity. My uncle told me that thiswas His Excellency, Mohammed-Azis, one of his friends at Constantinople, whom he had taken in with his family after they had undergonepersecution at the hands of the Sultan. He lodged him in another littlechâteau adjoining Férouzat, in order that they might be able to livemore comfortably in Turkish style: those young persons were two of hisdaughters. 

After that year, I never again stayed in Provence: for my uncle, havingsettled in China and Japan, was absent five years, and my only relationswith him were through his banker at Paris, with whom I enjoyed thatsolid and unlimited credit which you envied so much, and of which Iavailed myself with such easy grace and in such a superbly recklessspirit. 

You remember that I received a few months ago a letter announcing thissudden misfortune, and requesting my immediate presence at Férouzat, toremove the seals and open the will: my poor uncle had died in Abyssinia. 

Well, the day after my arrival, I had only just got up, when Féraudet, the notary, was announced. He came in, literally armed with documents. Idid not want to act like a greedy heir, but rather to put off for a fewdays all the most material questions; my notary, however, informed methat "there were certain clauses in the will which demanded an immediateexamination. " My uncle had charged me, he said, with numerous trusts andlegacies "for the benefit of his god-children and of other partiesliving a long distance off. " All this was uttered in a mournful tonesuited to the occasion, and at the same time with the manner of a personaware that he was the bearer of an extraordinary document, and preparingme for its effect. Finally he opened the will, which was worded asfollows:

"_Château de Férouzat_, . .. 18. . 

"I, the undersigned, Claude-Anatole-Gratien Barbassou, Count ofMonteclaro, do hereby declare that I elect and designate as my universallegatee and the sole inheritor of my property: of all my real andpersonal estate, and all that I am entitled to of every descriptionsoever, such as . .. , &c. : my nephew Jérôme André de Peyrade, the son ofmy sister: And I hereby command him to discharge the following legacies:

"To my much-beloved wife and legitimate spouse, Lia Rachel EuphrosineBen-Lévy, milliner, of Constantinople, and dwelling there in the suburbof Péra, First, a sum of four thousand five hundred francs, which I haveagreed by contract to pay her; Second, my house at Péra, in which shedwells, with all the appendages and appurtenances thereof; and Third, asum of twelve thousand francs, to be distributed by her, as it mayplease her, among the different children whom she has by me. 

"Likewise, to my much-beloved wife and legitimate spouse, SophiaEudoxia, Countess of Monteclaro (whose maiden name is De Cornalis), dwelling at Corfu: First, a sum of five hundred thousand francs, which Ihave agreed by contract to pay her; Second, the clock and the Dresdenchina, which stand on my mantle-piece; Third, 'The Virgin, ' byPerugino, in my drawing-room at Férouzat. 

"Likewise, to my much-beloved wife and legitimate spouse, Marie GretchenVan Cloth, dwelling at Amsterdam: First, a sum of twenty thousandfrancs, which I have agreed by contract to pay her; Second, a sum ofsixty thousand francs, to be distributed by her, as it may please her, among the different children whom she has by me; Third, mydinner-service in Delph, known as No. 3; Fourth, a barrel-organ, setwith four of Haydn's symphonies. 

"Likewise, to my much-beloved wife and legitimate spouse, Marie LouiseAntoinette Cora de La Pescade, dwelling at Les Grands Palmiers (IleBourbon), my plantation upon which she lives, including the annexes ofLe Grand Morne. 

"Likewise, to my much-beloved wife and legitimate spouse, Anita JosephaChristina de Postero, dwelling at Cadiz: First, a sum of twelve thousandfrancs; which I have agreed by contract to pay her; Second, my pardonfor her little adventure with my lieutenant Jean Bonaffé. "

If some very precise person should seek to insinuate his criticisms uponmy uncle's matrimonial principles, my reply would be thatBarbassou-Pasha was a Turk and a Mussulman, and that consequently he canonly be praised for having so faithfully obeyed the Laws of theProphet--laws which permitted him to indulge in all this hymeneal luxurywithout in the least degree outraging the social proprieties--and forhaving in this matter piously fulfilled a religious duty, which hispremature death alone, so far as we can judge, has hindered him fromaccomplishing with greater fervour. I trust that the God of the Faithfulwill at least give him credit for his efforts. 

Having said so much on behalf of a memory which is dear to me, andhaving enumerated the chief clauses of the will, I may add in a fewwords that, after the payment of my uncle's matrimonial donations, andthe various legacies to his "god-children, " with those to his sailors inaddition, there remained for me about thirty-seven million francs. 

"But, these children of my uncle's?" said I. 

"Oh, sir! everything is in order! The Turkish law not recognisingmarriages contracted abroad with unbelievers, excepting in the case ofcertain prescribed formalities which your uncle happens to haveneglected to go through, it results that his will expresses hisdeliberate intentions. Moreover, he had during his lifetime provided forthe future of all his people. "

I listened with admiration. 

"So much for the legal dispositions of the will, sir, " said the notary, when he had finished reading it out. 

"Now I have a sealed letter to hand to you, which your uncle charged meto give after his death to you alone. I was instructed in the case ofyour death preceding his, to destroy it without acquainting myself withits purport. You will understand, therefore, that I know nothing of itscontents, which are for you only to read. Have the kindness, please, tosign this receipt, declaring that you find the seals unbroken, and thatI have left it in your possession. "

He presented a paper, which I read and signed. 

"Is that all?" I asked. 

"Not quite, sir, " he replied, as he took another package out of hispocket. "Here is a document similarly sealed which was addressed to me. I was only to open it in the case of your uncle's will becoming null andvoid through your death preceding his. This document, he told me, wouldthen give effect to his final wishes. Your presence being dulyestablished, my formal written instructions are to burn this document, now rendered useless and purposeless, before your eyes. "

Again he made me attest that the seals were untampered with, and takingup a candle from the writing-table and lighting it, he forthwithcommitted to the flames this secret document the provisions of which wewere not to know. He then departed. 

When left alone, and still affected by these lively recollections of mypoor uncle, I began to think of the letter which the notary had leftwith me. I divined some mystery in it, and had a vague presentiment thatit would contain a decree of my destiny. This last message from him, coming as it were from the tomb, revived in my heart the grief which hadhardly yet been allayed. At last, trembling all the while, I tore openthe envelope. These were its contents:--

"My Dear Boy, "When you read this, I shall have done with this world. Please me by notgiving way too much to your grief, and act like a man! You know my ideasabout death: I have never allowed myself to be prejudiced into regardingit as an evil, convinced as I have been, that it is nothing but thetransition which leads us to a superior state of existence. Adopt thisview, and do not cry over me like a child. I have lived my life; now itis your turn. My desire is, that this old friend of yours should becherished in your memory: you shall join him with you in your happiness, by believing that he takes part in it. 

"Now let us have a talk. 

"I leave you all my property, desiring to create no businesscomplications for you: my will is drawn up in proper form, and you willenter into possession of your inheritance, which, you may rest assured, is a pretty handsome one. There is, however, one last wish of mine forthe fulfilment of which I rely simply upon your affection, feeling surethat between us there is no need of more complicated provisions forensuring its execution. 

"I have a daughter, who has always shared with you my dearestaffections. If I have kept this second paternity a secret from you, Ihave done so because circumstances might occur which would renderuseless the revelation which I am now approaching. My daughter had alegal father who had the right to reclaim her when sixteen years of age;she is free now, her legal father is dead, she will soon be seventeen, and I entrust her to your charge. Her name is Anna Campbell, she livesat Paris at the Convent of Les Oiseaux, where she is completing hereducation. Her only relation is an aunt, her mother's sister, MadameSaulnier by name, who lives at No. 20, Rue Barbet de Jony. It will be asufficient introduction for you to call on this lady and tell her yourname. She is aware that I have appointed you moral guardian to mydaughter, and that it is you who will take my place. In short, she knows_all my intentions_. 

"I underline these words, for they sum up my fondest aspirations. I havebrought up Anna with the view of making her your wife, and thus dividingmy fortune between you; and I rely upon you to carry out thisarrangement. If marriage is for a man but a small matter, it is for awoman the most serious event in life. With you, I am confident that thedear girl will never be unhappy, and that is the thing of mostimportance. If I never return from this last voyage, you will haveplenty of time to enjoy your bachelor's life; but I count upon yourfriendship to render me this little service by marrying her when theright time arrives. At present she is scarcely full-grown, and I thinkit will be best for you to wait one or two years. I can assure you hermother had a fine figure. You will find their portraits in one of thevelvet frames in the drawer of my desk. (Don't make a mistake: it is theone numbered 9. )

"Now that this matter is settled, it only remains for me to give you onelast injunction. If Férandet has followed my instructions, as I suppose, he will have burnt a paper in your presence. This was a second will, bywhich my daughter Anna Campbell would have been appointed my universallegatee, had you not been living. So long as all happened in the rightorder, you surviving me, you will understand I should not have wished tocomplicate your affairs, by leaving you confronted with a lot of legalformalities and intricacies. Such would be the consequence of a femaleminor who is a foreigner inheriting jointly with you: this would haveplunged you into a veritable mire of technicalities, restrictions, registrations, and goodness knows what. Nevertheless, it is necessary toprovide fully for the possibility of an accident arising to you beforeyour marriage with Anna. Our property would go in that case tocollaterals . .. And God only knows from how many quarters of the worldthese would not be forthcoming! As I wish my fortune to remain with mychildren, it is indispensable that you should not forget to maketestamentary dispositions in favour of your cousin, so that the wholeproperty may go to her in the event of your death, without any moredispute than there has been in your own case. I leave this matter inyour hands. You will find at my bankers all the indications of surnames, Christian names, and descriptions which you will require to enumerate, on the first page of my private ledger, where the account which wasopened for her commences, and yours also, forming a separate bankingaccount for you two. Madame Saulnier is accustomed to draw what isrequired for her: therefore, until your marriage, it is unnecessary foryou to occupy yourself with this detail--all you have to do is toconfirm her credit. 

"Now that we have settled this matter, my dear boy, go ahead! I do notneed, I am sure, to remind you to think occasionally of your old uncle:I know you well, and that satisfies me. I thank you for what you havebeen to me, and bless you from the bottom of my heart!

"Come, don't give way, old fellow: I am in Heaven, my soul is free andrejoicing in the glories of the Infinite. Is there anything in this foryou to mourn over? Farewell. "

After reading this letter, my dear Louis, need I tell you that I did thecontrary to what my poor uncle bade me, and that I gave way to my grief. The tears streamed down my cheeks, my heart was breaking, and I could nolonger see this last word, "Farewell, " as I pressed the letter to mylips. 

Such a mixture of tenderness and elevation of tone, such touchingsolicitude to console my grief, such boundless confidence in my love andfidelity! I felt crushed with my grief, proud only to think that I wasworthy of the generosity with which this noble-hearted man wasoverwhelming me, prodigal as a father in his kindness. It seemed to meat that moment that I had never loved him enough, and the grief at hisloss mingled itself with something like remorse. As if he were able hearme, I swore to him that I would live for the accomplishment of hiswishes: from the depths of my soul, indeed, I felt certain that he sawme. 

When the flow of my tears had ceased, I did not want to tarry a momentin the accomplishment of his last behests. I ran to his bed-chamber, opened his desk, and found the two portraits. One, a valuable miniature, represents a woman of twenty-five, the other is a photograph of AnnaCampbell at the age of fifteen. Although not so pretty as her mother, perhaps, she has a charming childlike face; the poor little thing feltuncomfortable, no doubt, when they made her sit, for her expression israther sulky and unnatural. Still she gives promise of being attractivewhen she has passed the awkward age. I felt myself suddenly possessed bya sentiment of affection for this unknown cousin, whose guardian I hadbecome and whose husband I am to be. Upon this cold picture I repeatedto my uncle the oath to obey his wishes; then, taking up a pen, I wrotea will appointing Anna Campbell the universal legatee of all theproperty which my uncle left us. 

But one part of my inheritance, the most remarkable and the leastexpected, was at present unknown either to the notary or to myself. 

I don't wish to make myself out better than I really am, my dear Louis:I must declare, nevertheless, that in spite of the very naturalbewilderment which I felt on finding myself the owner of such a fortune, my first thought, when once I had disposed of the legal matters, was topay a tribute of mournful regrets to the memory of my poor uncle. Ishould have considered it base ingratitude, not to say impiety on mypart, to have shown myself too eager to enjoy the wealth bequeathed tome by so generous a benefactor. His loss really left a cruel void in myheart. I decided, therefore, at least to live a few months at Férouzat. I wrote immediately to the aunt of Anna Campbell, to express myresolution to fulfil the wishes of my second father, begging her todispose of my services in every way as those of a protector and friendready to respond to every appeal. Four days afterwards, I received fromher a most cordial and elegantly-worded letter. She assured me of herconfidence in all the good accounts which my uncle had given of me; andshe gave me news of my _fiancée_, "who for one who is still only achild, promises already to develop into an accomplished woman. "

Having discharged these conventional duties, I shut myself up in myretreat, and set to work. 

For me to say that my retirement was not more distracted than I wouldhave desired, might perhaps be called a dangerous assertion; but whatcould I do? Was it not my duty to acquaint myself with all that my unclebequeathed to me? And the Lord knows what marvels my château of Férouzatcontained! Every day I made some fresh discovery in rooms full ofcurious furniture and antiquities of all ages and of all countries. Barbassou-Pasha was a born buyer of valuable objects, and the furniturewas crammed with rich draperies, hangings, costumes, and objects of artor curios: my steward himself could not enumerate them all. 

But the most delightful of all these marvels is certainlyKasre-el-Nouzha, my neighbouring property. Kasre-el-Nouzha was aTurkish fancy of my uncle's. These three Arabic words correspond to theSpanish Buen-Retiro; or, literally translated, they signify "Castle ofPleasures. " This was the retreat, separated only by a party-wall fromFérouzat, that was formerly inhabited by the exiled minister who hadfled from the persecutions of the Sultan. Picture to yourself, hidden ina great park whose umbrageous foliage concealed it from view, adelightful palace of the purest Oriental architecture, surrounded bygardens, with flowering shrubs covered with a wealth of blossoms, standing in the midst of green lawns, a sort of Vale of Tempétransplanted, one might imagine, from the East. My uncle Barbassou, conscientious architect that he was, had copied the plan from one of theresidences of the King of Kashmir. In the interior of the Kasre youmight fancy yourself in the house of some grandee of Stamboul or ofBagdad. Luxuries, ornaments, furniture, and general domesticarrangements, have all been studied with the taste of an artist and theexactitude of an archæologist. At the same time European comforts aregratefully mingled with Turkish simplicity. The silken tapestries ofPersia, the carpets of Smyrna with those harmonious hues which seem tobe borrowed from the sun, the capacious divans, the bath-rooms, and thestores, all contribute in short to the completeness of an establishment, suitable to a Pasha residing under the sky of Provence. A little door inthe park-wall gives access to this oasis. As you may guess, I passedmany an hour there, and I dreamt dreams of "The Thousand and OneNights. "

All this time I had never interrupted my labours; for you need notsuppose that my nabob's fortune could make me forgetful of myinclinations towards science. In the midst of my numerous follies, asyou know very well, and in spite of the distractions of the more or lessdissipated life which I have led up to my present happy age oftwenty-six, I have always preserved my love of study, which fills upthose hours of forced respite that even the pleasures of the world leaveto every man who is conscious of a brain. The Polytechnic School, andthe search for _x_, in which my uncle trained me, developed veryinquisitive instincts in me. I ended by acquiring a taste fortranscendental ideas. This taste is at least worth as much as that forangling. For my part, I confess that I class among the molluscs men who, being their own masters, content themselves with eating, drinking, andsleeping, without performing any intellectual labour. This is why youcall me "the _savant_. "

I worked away, then, at my book with a veritable enthusiasm, and my"Essay upon the Origin of Sensation" had extended to several longchapters, when the critical event occurred which I have undertaken torelate to you. 

I had lived thus all alone for two weeks. One evening, on my return fromArles, where I had been spending a couple of days upon some business, Iwas informed that His Excellency, Mohammed-Azis, the old friend of myuncle, whom I remembered to have seen on one occasion, had arrived atthe château the evening before, not having heard of the death ofBarbassou-Pasha. I must admit that this news gave me at the time verylittle pleasure; but in memory of my dear departed uncle, I could notbut give his friend the welcome he expected. I was told that HisExcellency had gone straight to his quarters at Kasre-el-Nouzha, wherehe was accustomed to dwell. I hastened to send my respects to him, begging him to let me know if he would receive me. He sent word that hewas at my disposition and waiting for me. I therefore set off at once tocall upon him. 

I found Mohammed-Azis on his door-step. Gravely and sadly he received mewith a salute, the respectful manner of which embarrassed me somewhat, coming from a man of his age. He showed me into the drawing-room, ineach of the four corners of which bubbled a little fountain of perfumedwater, in small basins of alabaster garnished with flowers. He made mesit down on the divan covered with a splendid silk material, and which, very broad and very deep, and furnished with numerous cushions, extendsround the entire room. When seated, I commenced uttering a few phrasesof condolence, but he replied to me in Turkish. 

This mode of conversing had its difficulties, so he, seeing that I couldnot understand him, started off into a _Sabir_ or Italianised French, pronounced in an accent which I will not attempt to describe. 

"Povera Eccellenza Barbassou-Pacha!--finito--morto?"

I replied in Italian, which he spoke indifferently well. We thus managedto get along. 

I then related to him the accident which had brought about the death ofBarbassou, my uncle and his friend. He listened to me with a greatlydistressed air. 

"Dunque voi signor padrone?" he replied, uneasily; "voi heritare ditutto?--ordinare?--commandare?"--

"Let me assure you, Your Excellency, " I answered, "nothing that concernsyou will be changed by my uncle's death. I shall make it a point ofhonour to fill his place exactly. "

He appeared satisfied with this reply, and breathed freely, like a manrelieved of a great burden. In another minute he asked me if I wouldlike to make the acquaintance of all his people. 

"I should be delighted, Your Excellency, if you would present me to yourfamily. "

He walked towards the door and summoned them by clapping his hands. 

I was expecting to see the wives or daughters of my host appearaccording to Mussulman custom, covered up with their triple veils. Anexclamation of surprise escaped me when I saw four young persons enter, dressed in beautiful Oriental costumes, their faces unveiled, and allfour endowed with such glorious beauty and youthful grace that I was, for the moment, fairly dazzled. I took them for his daughters. 

Hesitating and bashful, they stopped a few steps from me. In mybewilderment I could not find a word to say to them, until after theirfather had said something to them, they came up to me, first one, thenanother, and with shy graces and indescribable charms, each bowed andsaluted me with her hand to her forehead, then took my hand and kissedit. 

I must admit that I completely lost my head. I don't know what Istammered out. I believe I assured them that they and their father wouldfind me, in the absence of my uncle, their respectful and devotedfriend; but, as they did not understand a word of French, my speech waslost upon them. However that may have been, after a minute or so theywere sitting with their legs crossed on the divan, and all I was anxiousabout was to prolong my visit as much as possible. Mohammed told metheir charming names. These were, Kondjé-Gul, Hadidjé, Nazli, andZouhra. He, like a proud father, was not backward in praising theirbeauty, and I joined in chorus with him, and certainly succeeded inflattering him by my enthusiasm regarding them. 

Indeed, all four of them were of such striking beauty, and yet sodifferent in type, that you might have thought them grouped together inorder to form the most ravishing picture, their large dark eyes, sweet, timid, and languishing like the gazelle's, with that Oriental expressionwhich we do not meet with in these climes; lips which disclosed pearlyteeth as they smiled; and complexions which have been preserved by theveil from the sun's rays, and which--according to the ancientsimile--appeared really to be made up of lilies and roses. In those richcostumes of silk or of Broussan gauze, with their harmonious colours, revealing the forms of their hips and of their bosoms, they exhibitedattitudes and movements of feline lissomness and exotic grace, thevoluptuous languor of which can only be realised by those who have seenit in Mussulman women. I imagined myself the hero of an Arabian story, and mad fancies entered my brain. 

While I was endeavouring, for appearance's sake, to talk with theirfather as well as I could, they, growing tamer by degrees, began towhisper together--now and then came a little burst of laughter, in whichI seemed to detect some mischief. I playfully responded by holding up myfinger to let them know I guessed their thoughts, and again they burstout laughing like sly children--this going on until, after half an houror so, quite a nice feeling of familiarity was established between us;we talked by signs, and our eyes enabled us almost to dispense with thelaborious intervention of Mohammed's interpretations. Moreover, heseemed delighted to see us frolicking in this way. 

In order to teach them my name I pronounced several times the word"André. " They understood and tried in their turn to make me say theirnames. Hadidjé's was the occasion of much laughter, by reason of mydifficulty in articulating the guttural breathing. Seeing that I couldnot manage it, she held me by both hands, her face almost touching mine, and shouted "Hadidjé!" I repeated it, "Hadidjé!" This was charming andintoxicating. I had to take the same lesson from each of them; but whenit came to the turn of Kondjé-Gul, it was a delirium of joy. By somechance she let slip a word of Italian. I questioned her in thislanguage, and found she knew it pretty well. You may imagine mydelight! Immediately we overwhelmed each other with a torrent ofquestions. Her sisters watched us with looks of amazement. 

At this moment a Greek servant came in, followed by two other women, bringing in the dinner on trays, which they laid upon small low tablesof ebony inlaid with mother-of-pearl. 

Propriety and good breeding impelled me to take my leave after this verylong visit, and I prepared to do so. Upon this my young friends murmuredout a concert of confused words, in which I seemed to detect regret atmy departure. Fortunately His Excellency intervened by inviting me tostay to dinner with them. 

Need I tell you that I accepted!

I sat down on the carpet, as they did, with my legs crossed, and wecommenced a delicious banquet. Champagne was brought in for me, anattention which I appreciated. My place was next to Nazli; on my leftwas Kondjé-Gul, and opposite me, Hadidjé and Zouhra. I will not tell youwhat dishes were served, my thoughts were set elsewhere. 

"How old art thou?" asked Kondjé-Gul, employing in her Italian, whichwas tinctured with Roumanian, the Turkish form of address. 

"Twenty-six, " said I, "and how old art thou?"

"Oh, I shall soon be eighteen. " This "thouing" of each other wascharming. She then told me the ages of the others. Hadidjé was theeldest, she was nineteen: Nazli and Zouhra were between seventeen andeighteen, the age of fresh maturity among the daughters of the East, who ripen earlier than ours. Our gaiety and the prattle of their voiceswent on without cessation; but as they were drinking nothing but water, I said to Kondjé-Gul, thoughtlessly, "Won't you taste the wine of France?"

At this proposition she gave such a scared little look that the othersasked her to explain what I had said. This caused a great excitement, followed by a discussion in which the father took part. I was beginningto fear that I had given offence to them, when His Excellency at lastsaid a few words which seemed to be decisive. Then Kondjé-Gul, blushingall the while, and hesitating with divine gracefulness, took up my glassand drank--first with a little grimace like a kitten trying strangefood, so droll and amusing was it; then, later on, with an air ofsatisfaction so real that all of them burst out laughing. 

By Jove, I must say that at this frank abandonment I felt my heart beatjust as if her lips had touched my own in a kiss. Imagine what became ofme when Zouhra, Nazli, and Hadidjé held out their hands all at the sametime to claim my glass. They passed round the glass and drank, and Iafter them, perturbed by emotions impossible to describe. Thisunconstraint varied with bashful reserve, these fascinating scruples, which they overcame one after another, fearing no doubt to offend me byrefusing things which they thought were French customs; all their littleways in fact stimulated me, ravished me, and yet daunted me at times somuch that I dare no longer brave their looks--although the presence oftheir father was a sufficient guarantee of the innocent character ofthese familiarities. 

When the meal was over, the same Greek servants cleared the tables. Night-time arrived and they lighted the chandeliers. Through the closedshutters there came to us perfumes of myrtle and lilac. Cigarettes werebrought: Zouhra took one, lighted it, and after drawing a few mouthfuls, offered it to me. I abandoned myself to their caprices. 

Now, Louis, can you picture your friend luxuriously reclining oncushions, and surrounded by these four daughters of Mahomet's Paradise, in their lovely sultana's costumes, frolicking and prattling, and allfour of them so beautiful that I don't know which I should havepresented with the apple if I had been Paris? I assure you, it requiredan effort to convince myself that all this was real. After a littlewhile I noticed that Mohammed Azis was no longer present; but thanks toKondjé-Gul, who had quite become my interpreter, our conversation becamebrisk and general. Hadidjé taught me a Turkish game which is played withflowers, and which I won't try to describe to you, as I hardlyunderstood it. 

If I were to tell you all that happened that evening, I should berelating a story of giddy madness and intoxication. I taught them inreturn the game of "hunt the slipper;" you know it, don't you? We playedit as follows: there was a ribbon knotted at both ends, which we held, sitting on the floor in a circle, and on which slips a ring, which oneof the players must seize in his hands. This, upon my word, finished meup. What laughter, and what merry cries! Each of them, caught in herturn, chose me of course as her mark. Every moment I found myself seizedand held prisoner in their naked, snowy arms. Upon my soul, it wasmaddening!

It was nearly midnight when His Excellency returned. I had lost allreckoning of the time; now I felt I must really make off. While I wasgetting ready and saying a few words to Kondjé-Gul, Mohammed Azis spoketo Zouhra, Nazli, and Hadidjé. I fancied that he was questioning them, and that they replied in the negative. Then he spoke at greater lengthto Kondjé-Gul; he appeared to me to be pressing her to give him anaccount of my conversation with her, and that the result did not pleasehim. I was annoyed with myself at the thought that, maybe, I had beenthe cause of her being reprimanded. At last he certainly ordered them toretire, for they came to me, one after the other, and each of them, ason entering, bowed to me in a respectful manner, saluting me with herhand to her forehead, and kissed my hand; after this they went out, leaving me in a frame of mind disordered beyond description. 

I was just about to offer some apologies to Mahommed, and make my peacewith him before I left (for I feared that he might for the future placeobstacles in the way of similar evening performances), when he said tome, with an anxious air, in that dialect of his which I translate, inorder to avoid reproducing the scene of the _mamamouchis_ in the"Bourgeois Gentilhomme:"

"May I be allowed to hope that your lordship is satisfied?"

"Satisfied, Your Excellency?" I exclaimed, affectionately grasping hishands; "why, I am delighted! You could not give me greater pleasure inthis world than by treating me exactly as you treated my uncle. "

"The young ladies, then, did not displease your lordship?"

"Your daughters? Why, they are adorable! My only fear is lest I shouldnot find them reciprocate the sentiments which they inspire in me. "

"Ah! Then it is not because your lordship is displeased that you willnot remain here to-night?" added he, with an anxious look. 

"That I will not remain here?" I replied. "What do you mean?"

"Why, Your Excellency has not expressed his will to any of them. "

"My will! What will, then, could I express to them?"

"Considering that they belong to your lordship, " he continued. 

"They belong to me? Who?"

"Why, Kondjé-Gul, Zouhra, Hadidjé, Nazli. "

"They belong to me?" replied I, overcome with stupefaction. 

"Certainly, " said Mahommed, looking as astonished as I did. "HisExcellency, Barbassou-Pasha, your uncle, whose eunuch I had the honourof being, commanded me to purchase four maidens for his harem. Since heis dead, and your lordship takes his place as master--I had supposed--"

"Ah!!!"

I won't attempt to render for you the full force of the exclamation towhich I gave vent. You may guess the feelings conveyed in it. In verytruth I thought I should go out of my senses this time. The dream of"The Thousand and One Nights" was being realised in my waking hours!This extraordinary and sumptuous palace was a harem, and this harem wasmine! These four Schéhérazades, whose glorious youthfulness andfascinating charms had scorched me like fire, they were my slaves, andonly awaited a sign or token of my desire!

Mohammed, incapable of conceiving my agitation, regarded me with apitiful, confused look, as if he anticipated some disgrace. At thismoment the old Greek woman brought him the keys: there were four. Hehanded them to me. 

"Thank you, " I said; "now you may leave me. "

He obeyed, saluted me without a word, and went out. 

As soon as I found myself alone, not intending to restrain my feelingsany more, I began to march about the drawing-room like a madman, andgave free vent to the outburst of a joy which overwhelmed me. I pickedup from the carpet a ribbon dropped there by Kondjé-Gul, I pressed it tomy lips with avidity; next some scattered flowers, with which Hadidjéand Zouhra had played. 

Louis, I hope you do not expect me to analyse for your benefit all theextraordinary sensations which I experienced at that moment. The eventswhich befel me verged upon the supernatural--the supernatural cannot bedescribed--and I know not any legend, romance, or novel, relating tothis world, which has ever treated such an astounding situation as thatof which I was the hero. Those severe middle-class parents who givetheir daughters, for New Year's presents, M. Galland's "Arabian Nights, "with illustrations of the amorous adventures of the Caliph of Bagdad, would find such a romance as mine quite too "strong, " simply because thescene is not laid in Persia, or at Samarcand. Nevertheless, my story isidentical in character, and the most modest young lady might read itwithout a frown, if only my name were Hassan instead of André. 

Would you like to know everything that can agitate the mind of a mortalin such a position as mine? Listen, then. 

When I had succeeded in reducing to some extent my exaltation of spirit, when I had at last persuaded myself of the reality of this splendidfairyland, I sat down with my elbows on the window-sill--I felt the needof a little fresh air. It was just striking midnight. What were _they_doing? Were they thinking of me, I wondered, as much as I was thinkingof them? I began to examine the four keys which Mohammed had left me. Each key had a tiny label, with a letter and a name on it--Nazli, Zouhra, Hadidjé, or Kondjé-Gul. My eyes were still filled with theirbeauty. Although far from artless, I felt embarrassed in spite ofmyself, I might almost say shy. After the fascinations of this evening, I knew that I was in love; I loved with a strange passion suddenlydeveloped; I loved to overflowing these beautiful beings, without beingable to separate one from another. So completely were they mingled in myfancy, they might have possessed but one soul between them. By reason ofmy certitude of equal possession, Kondjé-Gul, Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhraconstituted in my imagination a single existence, exhaling itsunrivalled perfume of youth, beauty, and love. 

All this may appear absurd to you. I daresay you are right, but I amonly analysing for you an enchantment which still influences me like adream. While longing for the virginal delights which awaited me, mytumultuous senses were plunged into certain apprehensions at onceanxious and sweet. How am I to explain it to you? Sultan though I havebeen in my life, never before have I come in for such a delightfulwindfall of pleasures, my heart having been generally occupied, as youknow, with much less worthy objects. All at once I was overwhelmed bythe idea that they had doubtless misunderstood the reserve which I hadaffected in their company. According to their harem traditions, customs, and laws, I was their legitimate master and husband: was it not quitelikely, then, that they believed me indifferent or even disdainful oftheir charms? Troubled at this reflection, I was seized with a dreadfulpang of conscience. What could they suppose? Good heavens! Ought I towait till the next day to dissipate their doubts, and justify myself forsuch strange coldness--coldness which may have seemed likeindifference? I had no sooner conceived this thought than my desireconcentrated itself upon one object, to see Kondjé-Gul again. 

I knew all the domestic arrangements of El Nouzha. In the centre of theedifice is a vast circular hall, to which the daylight is admitted by acupola of ground glass, supported by pillars of white marble. Lampshanging between the pillars give out a mysterious light. Once arrivedthere, I listened. All was silent. I found Kondjé-Gul's chamber, andwent close up to it. I listened again, with my ear to the door. Anindistinct rustling which I heard, apprized me that she was not yet inbed. With key in hand, I still hesitated before opening. At last I madeup my mind. 

Picture to yourself a sweetly perfumed room, both rich and coquettish inits arrangements, lined with Indian silk hangings of gay colours, andillumined by the soft light of a small chandelier of three branches. Infront of a large glass Kondjé-Gul was seated, her long hair reachingdown to the floor. With her bare arms uplifted, and her head turnedbackwards, she held in her hand a golden comb. Seeing me, she uttered alittle cry, got up with a bound, and blushing all the while, and fixingupon me her great frightened eyes, she rested motionless and almost in atremble. Her agitation communicated itself to me. 

"Did I frighten you?" I commenced, trying to speak with a firm voice;"and will you pardon me for coming in like this?"

She did not answer a word, but lowered her eyes, a smile glancedfurtively over her lips, and then, with her hand on her bosom, she bowedto me. 

"Kondjé-Gul! Dear Kondjé-Gul!" I exclaimed, touched to the depths of mysoul by this act of submission. 

And springing towards her, I took her in my arms to chase away herfears; I kissed her brow, which she offered to me, pressing her faceagainst my bosom, with a lovely bashful look of alarm. 

"You have come, then!" she whispered. 

"Did you imagine I did not love you?" said I, as truly affected as shewas. 

At this question she raised her head with an inexpressible languor andsmiled again, looking into my eyes, and so close that our lips met. 

Louis, is it true that the ideal embraces the infinite, and that thehuman soul soars into regions so sublime that the blisses of this worldbelow cannot satisfy it?. .. I did not want to quit the harem withouthaving also seen Hadidjé, Zouhra, and Nazli. Poor little dears, no doubtthey already fancied themselves disdained! I must dry up their tears. 

You will understand by this time the complications in my uncle's willwhich have prevented me, these four months past, from finding a minuteto write to you. 

I will relate to you the incidents of this remarkable situation, of thisquadruple passion by which I am possessed to such an extent that I amsincere in all my professions. You may tell me, if you like, from thecommonplace standpoint of your own limited experiences, that it is allmadness. I love, I adore, after the manner of a poet or a pagan--as youlike, in fact--but what does it all amount to? My uncle, who was aMussulman, leaves me his harem; what could I do?

If it should happen that your work leaves you a little leisure, _don't_come to Férouzat; you understand? That's what we sultans are like! Thegirls are dying to see Paris; very likely I shall turn up there one ofthese days. 

I need hardly impress upon you, I suppose, the advisability of keepingthis letter most carefully from the eyes of your wife. 

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CHAPTER II. 

Madam, let me be very candid; I have a warm temperament, certainly--moreso, perhaps, than an ordinary Provençal. I will confess to even morethan this, if your grace so wills it, and I will not blush for it; butpray condescend to believe that I am also a respecter of conventionalproprieties, and that I should feel most keenly the loss of your esteemin this regard. Now, from a few words of satirical wit, concealed likesmall serpents under the flowery condolences of your malicious letter, Iconcluded that this miserable fellow Louis, abandoning allconsiderations of delicacy, and at the risk of ruining my reputation, had played me a most abominable trick, by reading out to you all thenonsense which I wrote to him last week. You need not deny it! Heconfesses it to-day, unblushingly, in the budget of news which he sendsme, adding that you "laughed over it. " Good gracious! what can you havethought of me? After such a story, I certainly could never again lookyou in the face, but that I can clear myself by assuring you at oncethat all this tale was nothing but a mystification, invented as a returnfor some of his impertinent chaff regarding my uncle Barbassou's will. Louis fell into the trap like any booby. But for him to have drawn youwith him, is enough to make me die of shame. 

Madam, I prefer now to make my confession. I am not the hero of aromance of the Harem. I am a good young man, an advocate of morality andpropriety, notwithstanding the fact that you have often honoured me withthe title of "a regular original. " Be so good as to believe, then, thatthe most I have been guilty of is a too artless simplicity of character. I did not suppose that Louis would show you this eccentric letter, for Ihad expressly enjoined him to keep it from you. My only crime thereforein all this matter has been that I forgot that a woman of yourintelligence would read everything, when she had the mind to do so, anda husband like yours. 

In fact, madam, I hardly know why I have taken the trouble to excusemyself with so much deliberation. I perceive that by such apologies Irun the risk of aggravating my mistake. What did I write, after all, buta very commonplace specimen of those Arabian stories which girls suchas you have read continually in the winter evenings, under the eyes oftheir delighted mothers? When I consider it, I begin to understand thatyour laughter, if you did laugh, must have been at the feebleness of myimagination--you compared it with the Palace of gold and the thousandwives of the Caliph Haroun-al-Raschid. --But please remember, once more, that I am a poor Provençal and not a Sultan. 

 "My tastes are those of a simple bachelor. "

Observe moreover that, out of regard for probability, no less than fromrespect for local colouring, I was obliged to decide upon a somewhatsimple harem, and to confine it within the strictly necessary limits. Like a school-boy, falling in love with the heroine he has put into hisstory, I found myself so charmed with my fancy, that in order to furtherenjoy my pleasures of illusion, I determined not to overstep the limitsof a perfectly realisable adventure. 

But since I abandoned myself to this folly, does it not seem to you, reconsidering the matter, that a great deal would have been lost if sucha romance had never occurred to me? And above all if it had stoppedshort at the first page? Is it not astonishing that no author hadthought of writing such a thing before? Would not this have been justthe work for a moralist and a philosopher, worthy at once of a poet andof a scholar? This poor world of ours, madam, moves in a narrow circleof passions and sensations, so limited that it seems to me as if everysoul rather more lofty than the average must continually feel itselfimprisoned. What felicity it must be, by a single flight of theimagination, to escape from this prison locked by prejudice! To fly awayinto the regions of dreamland! Slave of our civilized conventions, whatbliss to run away unfettered into the shady paths of the pagan world, peopled with its merry, enchanting nymphs! Or again to wander, like ahappy child of Asiatic climes in gardens of sycamores, where youngsultanas bathe and disport themselves in basins of porphyry. The Bois deBoulogne is a charming place, no doubt, madam; but you will admit thatit is inferior to the Valley of Roses, and that the painted andbedizened young women you see there will bear no comparison with myhouris. 

What, then? Does my thirst after the ideal merit any censure? Do not youconsider, you who read novels, that it would, on the contrary, be aninstructive as well as a curious study to follow up the strangeincidents which would necessarily result from such a very naturalconjunction of oriental love transferred to the midst of our own world?What contrasts they would provoke, and what strange occurrences! Doesnot the absence of such a study leave a void in our illustriousliterature?

But I divine upon your lips a word which frightens me--"Immoral!Immoral!" you say. 

Madam, this word shows me that you are strangely mistaken about my pureintentions. You are a woman of considerable intelligence; let usunderstand each other like philosophers or moralists. Suppose my nameto be Hassan. You would read without the least ruffle on your brow thevery simple narrative of my pretended amours, and if they were hinderedby any untoward obstacles, you would perhaps accord them a small tributeof tears, such as you have doubtless shed over the misfortunes of poorNamouna. The question of morality therefore, is in this case simply aquestion of latitude, and the impropriety of my situation woulddisappear at once if I inhabited the banks of the Bosphorus, or somepalace at Bagdad. 

Perhaps you take your stand upon the more elevated ground of"sentiment?" Well, this is precisely the pyschological point of viewthat I am about to discuss, madam. Yes, if it were only in order toinquire whether the human soul freed from all constraint, is capable ofinfinite expansion, like a liberated gas. To mix positive andmaterialist science with etherialised sensualism, such is my object. Asimple passion, we all know what that is; but to adore four women at atime--while so many honest folk are well content to love one only--thisseems to me a praiseworthy aspiration, fit to inspire the soul of a poetwho prides himself upon his gallantry, no less than the brain of aphilosopher in search of the vital elixir and the sources of sensation. Such a study would, assuredly, be arduous and severe, and would at anyrate not be without glory, as you will admit, if it should happen toterminate logically in the triumph of the sublime Christian love overpagan or Mahometan polygamy. 

Again, madam, in reprimanding me for my poor little harem, do you meanto preach against King David, or the seven hundred wives of Solomon?Without going back to the biblical legends of these venerablesovereigns, have you not read the classics? In what respect, may I ask, is the poem of Don Juan more moral than my subject? And did good oldLafontaine drop any of his artless probity, when he dipped his pen intothe Boccaccian inkpot? The morality of a given book, madam, dependsentirely upon the morality of its author, who respects himself first byrespecting his public, and who will not lead the latter into badcompany, not wishing to corrupt it with bad sentiments. 

It gives me pleasure to draw the picture of those ideal amours whichevery warm-blooded youth of twenty has at one time or other cherished inhis thoughts; to substitute virginal charms and graces for vice andharlotry--and after the manner of those charming heathen poets who haveso often filled our dreams with their fancies, to mingle the anacreonticwith the idyllic. Open any of your moral stories, madam, and I'll wagermy harem you will find that the interest in them is always kept up byadultery, in thought or in deed, which has been erected into a socialinstitution! The same Minotaur has served for us since the time ofMenelaus. Adultery, adultery, always adultery! it is as inevitable as itis monotonous!

Do you prefer the novel of the day, on the lives and habits ofcourtesans? revelations of the boudoir, where all is impure, venal, anddegrading? No, madam, I won't proceed any farther, out of respect alikefor you and for my pen. 

Possibly your taste inclines you to those moralist's studies of "Woman, "in which the author warns his readers on the first page that "he doesnot speak for chaste ears. " Madam, it is my boast that I have neverwritten a line which a virtuous woman might not read. .. . My book willcertainly lose thereby in the circulation which it will obtain; but Ishall console myself by the thought that if I sometimes cause you tosmile, that smile will never be accompanied by a blush. Being the nephewof a Pasha, it struck me as a capital idea to lay the scene of a Turkishromance in Provence, and to found upon it a study in psychology. Everyromance must be based upon love. Am I to be blamed, therefore, becauseoriental customs prescribe for lovers different modes of love? Confess, if you please, that my heroines are more poetic than the young women _àla mode_, into whose company I had as much right as any other author toconduct my hero if I had so chosen. I will excuse myself by saying, likethe simpleton De Chamfort, "Is it my fault if I love the women I do lovebetter than those I don't?"

P. S. Above all things, not a word to Louis about the mystification ofwhich I am making him a victim. 

You wretch! Here's a fine pickle you've got me into! What, after Iconfided to you the extraordinary adventures which I have passedthrough, relying upon your absolute secrecy and discretion, you gostraight off and read my letter to your wife, at the risk of bringingupon me by your recklessness the most cruel gibes on the subject of mypasha-ship! Can't you see that if this story gets wind, Paris will betoo hot a place for me? I shall become the butt of the Society journalsand the halfpenny press, who will treat me as a most eccentric andromantic personage. Never more shall I be able to set foot in club, theatre, or private drawing-room, without being followed by the staresof the inquisitive and the quiet chaff of the ribald! I can picturemyself already in the Bois, with all the loafers in my train pointingout "the man with the harem. " Have you lost your senses, that you havebetrayed me in this abominable fashion?

In all seriousness I now rely upon you to repair this blunder, byaccepting, in the eyes of your wife, the part of one mystified, which Ihave made you assume. I wrote to her that not one word of this story istrue, and that it is a romance I have been composing in order to occupythe leisure hours which I am forced to pass in the solitude of Férouzat, while the business connected with my inheritance is being wound up. Inshort, as I am positive that the first thing she will do will be to showyou her letter, I expect you, if your friendship is good for anything, to pretend to believe it. Upon this condition only will I continue myconfidences; and I suspend them until you have given me your word ofhonour to observe discretion. 

Having received your promise, Louis, I now resume my narrative at thepoint where I broke off. Now you will see what you might have lost. 

Just one word by way of preface. 

I am relating to you, my dear friend, a story which is more especiallyremarkable for the multitude of unaccustomed sensations with which itabounds, and which I experience at every step--for my amourousadventures, as you will agree, bear no resemblance to the ready-madeclass of amours. It would really have been a great loss for the futureof psychology, if the hero of such adventures had not happened to be, asI am, a philosopher capable of bringing to bear upon them powers ofcorrect analysis. 

First of all, if you wish really to understand the peculiarities of mysituation, you must banish from your mind all that you have ever knownof such amours as come within the reach of the poor Lovelaces of oureveryday world. Those uncertain, ephemeral connections of lovers andmistresses whose only law is their caprice, and which mere caprice candissolve; those immoral and dubious ties whose permanence nothing canguarantee, and in which one jostles one's rival of yesterday and of themorrow--in all amours of this sort there is something precarious andhumiliating. With our habits and customs no secret, no mystery, ispossible; for however loving or beloved a woman may be, her beauty isexposed to every eye. It is like the enjoyment of communal property. Inmy harem, on the contrary, the charms of Zouhra, Nazli, and Kondjé-Gul, concealed from all other eyes, have never excited any passions but mine;my tranquil possession is undisturbed by the anxious jealousies whichrecollections of a former rival always awaken. Nor is the future lessassured than the present, for their lives are my property; they are myslaves, and I their master, in charge of their souls. So much for mypreface; now I will proceed. 

I will not disparage your powers of memory by reminding you that myinteresting narrative was broken off _au premier lendemain_--at thefirst glimmer of our honeymoon. The complete bliss, the enchantment ofsuch moments, is certainly the most exquisite thing I have experienced. First the timid blushes, then the growing boldness and the freshimpression of first sensations--all this and more, mingled with thecontentment of entire possession. One gives oneself up entirely; allbarriers are broken down by love--participation in one tender secret hasalready united the lovers' souls, which seek each other and mingletogether in a common existence. 

I had returned to the château before my people were up; after a bath Islept again, and did not wake before noon. I breakfasted, and thenwaited till two o'clock before returning to El-Nouzha. Too great a hastewould have seemed to indicate a want of delicacy, and I wished to showthat I was discreet as well as passionate; this time of day seemedappropriate from both points of view. 

To describe to you the condition of my feelings would be about as easy, you may imagine, as to describe a display of fireworks. There arecertain perturbations of the heart which defy analysis. The enchantmentwhich held me spell-bound, intoxicated my mind like fumes of haschisch, and I could hardly recognise myself in this fairy-world character; itrequired an effort on my part to assure myself of my own identity, andthat I was not misled by a dream. No, it was myself sure enough! Then Iremembered that I was going to see them again. My darlings were waitingfor me. No doubt they had already exchanged confidences. What kind ofreception should I have? My duties as Sultan were so new to me that Itrembled lest I should commit some mistake which would lower me in theireyes; I was walking blindfold in this paradise of Mahomet, of whose lawsI was ignorant. Ought I to maintain the dignified bearing of a vizir, orabandon myself to the tender attitudes of a lover? In my perplexities Iwas almost tempted to send for Mohammed-Azis, to request of him a fewlessons in deportment as practised by the Perfect Pasha of theBosphorus; but perhaps he would disturb my happiness? As to introducinga hierarchy into my harem, I would not hear of such a thing; for to tellthe truth, the choice of a favourite would be an impossibility for me. Iloved them all four with an equal devotion, and could not even bear thethought of their being reduced to three without feeling the misery of anunsatisfied love. 

At last the hour having arrived without my mind being decided, I wiselydetermined to act as circumstances might dictate, and started off in thedirection of my harem. I think I have already told you that a smalldoor of which I alone possess the key, communicates between my park andEl-Nouzha. From this door a sort of labyrinth leads to the Kasre by asingle narrow alley, which one might take for a disused path. When Ireached the last turn in this alley which terminates in the opengardens, I perceived under the verandah Mohammed-Azis, who seemed to bewatching me--he ran towards me with an eager and delighted appearance, and _salem aleks_ without end. 

By his first words I gathered that he knew all. 

When I asked after them, he told me that I was expected; then all atonce I heard merry voices, followed by the noise of hurrying footstepsmingled with rustlings of silk dresses. Soon I saw coming out under theverandah, struggling together to be the first to reach me, Hadidjé, Nazli, Kondjé-Gul and Zouhra; they threw themselves into my arms allfour at once, laughing like children, hugging me, and holding up theirrosy lips, each vying with the other for my first kiss. What laughter, what merry, bird-like warbling of voices! And all this with the naturalabandonment of youth and simplicity--I was about to say innocence--somuch so that I was quite taken aback. But all of a sudden, at a wordfrom Mohammed, who was looking at us affectionately, and more and moredelighted every minute, they stopped quite confused. He had, no doubt, reprimanded them for some breach of decorum, for they, slipping gentlyaside, held their hands up to their foreheads. You may guess I soon cutshort these respectful formalities, by drawing them back into myarms. .. . Whereupon renewed laughter and merriment ensued, accompaniedwith little glances of triumph at poor Mohammed, who assumed ascandalised expression, lifting up his hands as if to make Heaven awitness that he was not responsible for this neglect of all Orientaletiquette! After this scene, you will easily understand that I did nottrouble my head any more about the difficulties which I had anticipatedin my family duties. I had apprehended a very delicate situation, aggravated by growing jealousies; by the susceptibilities of rivals, offended airs, perhaps even the reproaches and tears of betrayed love. 

Five minutes later we were running about the gardens. Having onlyarrived two days before, they had not yet been outside the harem. Thesight of their domain pleased them immensely, and their young voicesprattled away with a musical volubility fit to gladden the hearts of thevery birds. At each step they made some new discovery, some bed offlowers, or some shady path at the bottom of which the sound of awaterfall could be heard, carried off by sparkling brooks running onbeds of moss over the whole length of the park until they lostthemselves in the lake; over these brooks were placed at intervalslittle foot-bridges painted in bright colours. All these things gaverise to questions. Naturally Kondjé-Gul was always the interpreter; theyall listened, opening their eyes wide; then they started off again, plucking flowers from the bushes, which they placed in their hair, intheir bosoms, and round their necks. In order to attract my admirationfor these adornments, each of them kept running up to me as if shewanted a kiss. 

If you want to know the thoughts and feelings of a mortal under thesecircumstances, I must confess that it is quite beyond my power toexplain them to you. I was bewildered, captivated, and surprised by suchnovel sensations that without reflection or conscious analysis, I simplyabandoned myself to them. If you wish to understand them, my dearfellow, you must first acquire some æsthetic notions which, artistthough you are, you do not yet possess; you must familiarise yourselfwith these entirely exotic charms of the daughters of the East, theiryouthful simplicity and ease combined with a certain voluptuous_nonchalance_, the undulating movements of their hips acquired by thehabit of moving about in Oriental slippers, their lissom and felinegraces, and the overwhelming fascination of their languishing eyes. Youmust see them in these strange picturesque costumes, so artisticallyrevealing their graceful forms, in wide silk trousers, tied round at theankles, and drawn in at the waist by a rich scarf of golden gauze: youmust see them in their jackets embroidered with pearls, and open bodicesof Broussan silk transparent as gauze; or in the long robe open infront, the train of which they hold up by fastening it to the waist whenthey want to walk about freely--all these things in soft well-tonedcolours, blending wonderfully together. It was a dazzling scene of freshbeauty and strange enchantment, such as I cannot attempt to describe. 

Once we arrived at the end of a ravine, where we were obliged to crossthe brook by stepping-stones set in its bed. Thereupon they cried outwith fright. I prevailed upon Zouhra, who seemed to be the bravest, tocross holding my hand. Hadidjé followed her; but when it came to Nazli'sturn, the timid creature hung to my neck as if terrified by some greatdanger; so I took her up in my arms and carried her across to theopposite side. Kondjé-Gul, like a coquette that she is, followed herexample. 

"Oh! carry me too, " she cried. 

As I was holding her over the brook, one of her slippers fell into thewater. You may guess how they laughed; there was Kondjé-Gul hoppingabout on one foot while I was fishing out the little sandal, which I hadto dry in order to avoid wetting her soft green-silk stocking. 

It was one of the most charming spots in the park: a great carpet ofturf shaded by a clump of sycamores. We all sat down. .. . 

You have, doubtless, seen plenty of pictures on the subject of "Dreamsof Happiness. " There is a delightful garden, at the bottom of whichstands the temple of Love; the figures, handsome young men and handsomeyoung women, are always found reclining. Well, if you exclude from sucha picture details somewhat too academic for Férouzat, you may see me onthe grass, enjoying the fresh air with my houris lying down around me, in the charming abandoned attitudes of young nymphs who have never heardof such a thing as stays, but display in bold relief the well-roundedforms of their beautiful and lissom figures. 

I had passed my arm round Zouhra's neck; she, with a fond look, restedher head against me, and Hadidjé imitated her on the other side. I beganto talk to Kondjé-Gul, the sole interpreter of my amours. You may guesshow curious I was to learn their thoughts. I questioned her about theevents of the morning, and what they had been saying to each other. Directly she replied, I learnt that when they first got up there was, asthe result of their mutual confidences, a general astonishment. ButMohammed explained everything, by telling them that "such is the customin the French harems. " This explanation was sufficient for them. You maybe sure I did not contradict such a flattering assurance. 

"Well then, you like my country, " I said to her; "and they are allcontent that they have come here?"

"Oh, yes!" she exclaimed, "especially since we saw you! Mohammed had ledus to believe that you were old. We feared we were about to enter upon adull and formal existence. So you may imagine how delighted we were whenyou arrived, and he told us our master was you! At first we could notbelieve it, but as he had let us appear unveiled, we were constrained toadmit that he had not deceived us. And then, when I heard you speak tohim--I understood all. Immediately I repeated to them your words, andhow that you found us handsome. "

"And so, " I replied, "I may believe you really love me? And do _they_also?"

She looked at me with an astonished air, as if this question conveyed nomeaning to her. 

"Why, of course; since you are kind, affectionate, and nice to us!"

The others listened attentively without understanding a word; theirhandsome eyes wandered from Kondjé-Gul to me, and from me to Kondjé-Gul, with an indescribable expression of curiosity. 

"But _you_, " she replied after a moment, "is it really true that youmean always to love us all, one as much as another, as you have doneto-day?"

"Certainly, " I replied with assurance; "this is the custom in ourharems, as Mohammed told you. Does not that please you better?"

"Oh, yes!" she exclaimed, "but we always thought that you Franks neverloved more than one woman. "

"That's what they keep saying in Turkey, to injure us, and out ofjealousy, because we do not ordinarily marry more than one wife, to whomit is our duty to be faithful. "

"But--what happens then, when a man has four, as you have?" sheinquired. 

"We are equally faithful to all the four!" I replied, without wincing. 

"Oh, what happiness!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands with joy. 

And immediately, with the volubility of a bird, she began to talk to theothers, translating to them everything which we had just been saying. They were all in transports of merriment. 

Louis, I won't proceed any further. I can guess the stupid reflectionswhich will occur to you on the subject of this very simple situationwhich you, like one left behind, buried deep in the ruts of your absurdprejudices, take the liberty of judging from afar. Yes, confess itwithout reserve; you, moving in the limited sphere of your own feebleexperiences, are about to pronounce my amours eccentric. On thefallacious ground that it is unnatural to love and be loved by fourwomen at a time, you, like any other miserable sceptic, are shocked bythe freedom of simple sentiments which you are unable to appreciate. First, then, let me assure you that in their own minds none of themconceived the slightest irregularity in their position. According to thelaws and customs of their country, they believed themselves to be mywives by a tie as perfect and as legitimate in their eyes as that ofmarriage in ours. They are my _cadines_, a position which creates forthem duties and rights defined by the Koran itself. 

Next, out of consideration for your poor intellect, let me inform youalso that under the blessed skies of Turkey the wife has no suchpresumptuous ambition as that of possessing a husband all to herself. Reared with a view to the harem, the young girl aims no higher in herambitious fancy than to become the favourite and outshine her rivals;but never, never in the world, does she conceive the outlandish notionof becoming the sole object of the affections of lover, master, orhusband. The ideal of girls like Zouhra, Nazli, Hadidjé, and Kondjé-Gul, is the life which I am now giving them; they abandon themselves to it, as to the realisation of their hopes. Their notions respecting thedestiny of woman do not go beyond this happiness, which they nowpossess, of pleasing their master and being loved in this way by him. Itis no use, therefore, for you to string together a lot of conventionalabstractions with a view to drawing from them any deductions applicableto the laws of the Kingdom of Love. 

The truth is that Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhra burst into transports ofjoy when Kondjé-Gul repeated to them my promise to be "faithful to allfour of them. "

My dear fellow, there is a great deal of the child remaining in thesecreatures, who seem to have been only created to expand their beauty, asflowers are to exhale their perfume. Cloistered in the life of theharem, their ideas do not reach beyond the horizon of the harem. Theirhearts and their minds have only been cultivated by recitals ofwonderful legends and of superstitious romances of love; they knownothing else. 

You may say, if you like, that they are just pretty little animalswithout souls--but you would be wrong. Again I repeat, most of ourso-called refined and civilised ideas about sentiment, virtue, propriety, and modesty, are conventional ideas, differing according toplace, climate, and habits; and this you will see clearly by followingmy story, which I may with good reason call natural history, for when Itake the instincts of my little animals by surprise, they display for amoment bold impulses which bear much more resemblance to genuineinnocence of mind than do certain affectations of modesty practised bythe young ladies of our educated society. 

The slipper being nearly dry, Kondjé-Gul put it on her little archedfoot, with its famous light green silk stocking, and we recommenced ourcourse through the park. I will say nothing about a row we took in aboat on the lake, with great willows on its banks. The swans and theMandarin ducks followed us in procession. 

Mohammed, like a wise man, had foreseen that I should stay at the Kasre. The dinner this time was served in the French style. He did not sit downwith us as he had done the day before; I had no longer need of him, andhe returned to the obscure position which he was henceforth to occupyduring my visits. I sat down to table, therefore, with my houris; andthis meal, in which everything was new to them, became a veritablefeast. They nibbled and tasted a bit of everything with exclamations ofsurprise, with careful investigations, and with little gourmandish airsof inexpressible charm. I should tell you that my cook only won theirunanimous approbation at dessert, when they commenced to make a sort ofsecond dinner of sweets and cakes, creams and fruit. The champagnepleased them above all things, and would have ended by turning theirlittle heads, but for my careful attention. Whilst they vied with eachother in merriment and gay prattle, I was thinking of that oriental mealof the night before in which I had seated myself by them in the reservedattitude of a stranger. What a dream fulfilled! What fairy's wand hadproduced this magical effect? I tell you it was a regular transformationscene. At dessert Hadidjé bent her head down to me with a mischievouslook, and laughed as she spoke some Turkish word. 

"Sana yanarim!" I replied, emphasizing the sentence with a kiss on herhand. I had learnt from Kondjé-Gul that it means "I love you, " or moreliterally, "I am burning for you. "

You may guess how successful this was, and with what shouts of joy itwas received. Of course there followed a little make-believe scene ofjealousy on the part of the others. 

"Kianet! ah, Kianet!" they repeated, laughing, and threatening me withuplifted fingers. This expression signifies "ungrateful. "

When evening arrived I took them into the park to calm the warmth oftheir emotions down a little. It was a splendid moonlight night, and thelong black shadows of the trees stretched over the walk. As we passedthese dark places the timid creatures pressed close about me. 

Ah! well, you don't expect me, I suppose, to tell you how this day wasconcluded? Affairs of the harem, my dear fellow!--affairs of the harem!

As to my other news, I hardly need tell you that nobody in thisneighbourhood has a suspicion of the secrets of El-Nouzha. In myexternal life I conform to all the social requirements of my position. Ivisit my uncle's old friends, Féraudet the notary, and the good oldvicar, who calls me the Providence of the place. Once a week I dine withthe doctor, Morand; who has a son, George Morand, an officer in theSpahis, on leave for the present at Férouzat; and an orphan niece, ayoung lady of nineteen, lively and sympathetic. She is engaged to hercousin the captain, who is a regular _Africain_, a fire-eater you maycall him, but a good fellow in the full sense of that word--one of thoseopen natures made for devotion, like a Newfoundland dog, or a poodle. Heis both formidable and patient. Such is my friend! We were playmates aschildren, and he would not brook the slightest insult to me in hispresence. He wonders very much at my anchorite's life, and in order todivert me from it, endeavours to draw me into the hidden current ofrustic gallantries which he indulges in while awaiting the day of Hymen. 

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CHAPTER III. 

In the detailed account which I gave you, my dear Louis, of myhoneymoon, I described pretty nearly the history of every day which haspassed since I last wrote. "Happy nations have no history, " said a wiseman; happiness requires no description. First then, you must understandthat I am now writing after recovery from the natural excitement intowhich my strange adventures had plunged me. Three months have passed; Iam now enjoying my life like a refined vizir, and no longer like asimple troubadour of Provence, transported of a sudden into the Caliph'sharem. I have recovered my analytical composure. 

As you may well imagine I set to work, after the second day, to learnTurkish, an easy task after my studies in Sanscrit. Add to this that, with the aid of love, my houris have learnt French, with all themarvellous facility and linguistic instinct of the Asiatic races. Youwill not be astonished to learn, then, that I can now share with themall the pleasures of conversation; a happy result which will permit mehenceforth to furnish a more complete description of their differentcharacters. 

Having said this, I will give you in the present letter, with a view ofenabling you to understand this narrative more perfectly, the mostprecise details upon the following subjects:

First--The organisation, laws, and internal regulations of my harem;

Second--Full-length portraits of my odalisques, and a description oftheir characters;

Third--A careful dissertation upon the advantages of polygamy, and itsapplicability to the moral regeneration of mankind. 

I will first confess, without any presumption, that the ingenious systemestablished for the conduct of my harem is all due to my uncleBarbassou, who, as much as any man in the world, was always particularlycareful to maintain what the English term "respectability. " In the eyesof the whole neighbourhood, nay, even of my own household, Mohammed-Azisis an exile, a person of high political rank, to whom my uncle had givena hospitable retreat. 

Barbassou-Pasha always addressed him respectfully as "Your Excellency, "nor did any servant in the château speak in different terms of him. Hehad had the misfortune to lose one of his daughters--so the storygoes--for he seems to have had originally five. Whether his daughtersare young or old, no one knows. In the interior of the Kasre all theservices are performed by Greek women, who do not know a word of French;they never go out of doors. The gardeners have to leave the gardens atnine o'clock in the morning. All these arrangements, as you willperceive, are extremely correct. The story about Mohammed is a veryplausible one; his solemn and melancholy expression together with hissolitary life, are thoroughly in conformity with the fallen grandeur ofa minister in disgrace. He is writing, according to report, a memoir injustification of his conduct. He works at it both day and night, and itis well-known that I very often sit up quite late with him, in order toassist him in this task. 

As for me, I do not suppose you imagine that, like the Knight Tannhauseron the Venusberg, I am continually wasting my spirit and my strengthover what Heine calls "the sweets and dainties of love;" or that thephiltres of Circe have transformed me into a hog like the companions ofUlysses. --Go gently, my dear fellow! I am a representative of thelearned cohort, please to remember! I keep a careful diary of myobservations, from which I intend to draw up a report for the Academy. Like those bold investigators of pathological science who inoculatethemselves with a deadly virus in order to study its effects uponthemselves, I, a serious analytical student, am devoting myself to acourse of experiments in pure sensualism, to the sole profit ofScience. Without restrictions, but in full consciousness of the highmission which I have undertaken; without cheating myself with too smalla dose of the intoxicating draught, I act like an honest Epicurean. Itake of the voluptuous delights of my harem as large a dose as anintelligent and refined student of nature ought to require, but withoutimprudently overstraining the springs of sensation. Armed with thedexterity of superior wisdom, I, floating on this Oriental stream ofLove, know how to remain faithful to my charge, by avoiding the rocks ofsatiety and the shipwreck of illusions. 

Every day then, about three o'clock, after having devoted the morning tomy business affairs or to my "Essays on Psychology, " I go to El-Nouzha, and stay there usually until the middle of the night. However, Isometimes go there of a morning, for a bath; I am teaching my houris toswim. I must tell you that in this matter, indispensable for the comfortof the sultanas, Barbassou-Pasha designed a marvel. In the middle of anisland in the lake (which is taken from the delightful garden ofSee-ma-Kouang, the famous Chinese poet), picture to yourself a greatmarble basin surrounded by a circular arcade, a sort of _atrium_ open tothe sky. Under a colonnade and in its cool shade, a fine Manilla matcovers the flag-stones. The base of the inner walls is enlivened withfrescoes, after Pompeian and Herculanean models. Round the white pillarscling myrtles and climbing roses, reaching up to the terrace ornamentedwith vases and statues, which stand out in relief against a mass ofpurple drapery. Here are set capacious divans in leather, hammocks, carpets, and cushions to recline upon. Such is the aspect of thisenchanting place. On many a hot morning we have breakfasted there, andit is from there that I write to you to-day, dressed in a Persian robewith wide sleeves, while around me sports my harem; affording me, therefore, an excellent excuse for at once proceeding to sketch theportraits of my _almées_. 

In all beings the internal character is so closely allied to theexternal form, that it appears to be only an equation of the latter. Thus certain features of the face announce peculiarities of nature, inclinations, and instincts even to the vulgar; the physiologist, withhis more special knowledge, discovers quite a series of concealedrevelations in the innermost recesses of that pretty sphinx whichconstitutes God's masterpiece, and which we call woman. In the same waygrace is always the result of the harmony of lines; from the slightestoutline, from the position of a dimple, or the tension of a smile, froma glance, or from the most transient gesture, one can always trace theorigin of a feeling, and lay bare the mind. Thus, at this moment, Ibehold Hadidjé leave the water, and saunter quietly in the direction ofNazli and Zouhra, who are reclining on cushions and smoking cigarettes. By the air of indifference that she affects I could wager that shecontemplates playing them some trick!

And indeed, when close to the smokers, she suddenly shook her hair. Thetwo others jumped up under the spray of sparkling water, and ran afterher, beating her with their fans and fly-flaps. 

Kondjé-Gul, the heedless beauty, who is rocking herself in her hammockbeside me, scarcely raises her lazy head to follow them with a glance, at the sound of their cries and laughter. Since her name is at the endof my pen, I will begin my series of portraits with her. 

Kondjé-Gul is a Circassian by race. Her name in Turkish signifies avariety of rose which we are not acquainted with in France; she wasbrought when quite a child to Constantinople by her mother, attached tothe service of a cadine of the Sultan. She is now eighteen. Imagine theCaucasian type in the flower of its beauty, tall, with the figure of ayoung goddess, an expression of natural indolence which appears toindicate a consciousness of her sovereign beauty, and a fine headcrowned with thick chestnut hair falling down to her waist. Her featuresare clean cut, and of a remarkably pure type. Large brown eyes withheavy eyelids, imparting a languishing expression; lips somewhatsensual, which from her habit of carrying her head erect, she seemsalways to be holding out for a kiss; a mixture of Greek beauty with astrange sort of grace peculiar to this Tcherkessian race, which stillremains a trifle savage. All these characteristics make up an _ensemble_both exotic and marvellous, which I could no more describe to you than Icould explain the scent of the lily. Of a loving and tender nature, sheexhibits the disposition of a child in whom ardent impulses are unitedwith a profound gentleness of sentiment. She is the jealous one of myhousehold--but, hush! the others know nothing of this. .. . Certainly sheis the most remarkable and the most perfect of my little animals. 

Hadidjé is a Jewess of Samos, a Jewess of a type singularly rare amongthe descendants of Israel. She is a blonde of a mingled tint, soft andgolden, of which the Veronese blonde will give you no idea. Her beautyis undoubtedly one of those effects of selection and crossing admittedas the foundation of Darwin's system. .. . England has left her tracethere! Picture to yourself one of those "Keepsake" girls escaped fromByron's "Bride of Abydos" or his "Giaour;" take some such charmingcreature, fair and fresh-complexioned, white and pink, and plunge her inthe atmosphere of the harem, which will orientalise her charms and giveher that--whatever it is--which characterises the undulatingfascinations of the sultanas. 

My dear friend, an incredible event has happened--an event astounding, unheard of, supernatural! Don't try to guess; you will never succeed, _never!_ It surpasses the most prodigious and miraculous occurrence everimagined by human brain. 

Yesterday I had broken off my letter, distracted by Hadidjé, at the verymoment when I was tracing her portrait for you. The day passed awaybefore I again found leisure to finish it. This morning I wasbreakfasting at the château all alone in my study, where I generallyhave my meals, in order not to interrupt my work. While I wasruminating over the last number of a scientific magazine, my ear wasstruck by the noise of a carriage rolling over the gravel walk. As Ivery seldom receive visits, and my friend George, the spahi, alwayscomes on foot, I thought it must be my notary coming to stir me up aboutsome business matters; he had been reproaching me the last fortnight forneglecting them. The carriage stopped in front of the doorsteps. I heardthe servants running across the antichamber. Suddenly I heard a cry, followed by confused voices, which sounded as though trembling withfright, and finally fresh sounds of steps, rushing headlong, as in asudden rout. Wondering what this might mean, I listened, when all of asudden a stentorian voice shouted out these words:--

"But what's the matter with those blockheads? How much longer are theygoing to leave me here with my bag?"

Louis, imagine my amazement and stupefaction! I thought I recognised thevoice of my dead uncle, which in the brazen notes of a trumpet grewlouder and louder, adding in a pompous, commanding tone--

"François! if I catch you, you rascal, you'll soon know what for!"

I jump up, run to the window, and see quite distinctly my uncle, Barbassou Pasha himself. 

"Hullo! you here, my boy?" says he. 

As for me, I leap over the balcony, and fall into his arms; he lifts meup from the ground, as if I were a child, and we embrace each other. Youmay guess my emotion, my surprise, my transports of joy! The servantswatched us from a distance, frightened and not yet daring to approachnear. 

"Ah, well!" repeated my uncle; "what on earth's the matter with them?Have I grown any horns?"

"I will explain everything, " I said; "come in, while they take up yourluggage. "

"All right!" he replied; "and get some breakfast for me, quick! I'm ashungry as a wolf. "

All this was said with the dignity of a man who never allows himself tobe surprised at anything, and in that meridional accent, the ring ofwhich is sufficient to betray the origin of the man. My uncle speaksseven languages; at Paris, as you know, he pronounces with the pureaccent of a Parisian, but directly he sets foot in Provence, that's allover; he resumes his brogue, or as they call it down here, the _assent_. 

He came in, stepping briskly, and holding his head erect; I followedhim. Once in my study, and seeing the table laid, he sat down asnaturally as if he had just returned from a walk in the park, poured outtwo large glasses of wine, which he swallowed one after the other with agulp of deep satisfaction; and then made a cut at a pie, which heattacked in a serious manner, rendering it quite impossible to mistakehim for a spectre. I let him alone, still contemplating him withamazement. When I considered him ready to answer my questions, I said--

"Well, uncle, where have you come from?"

"Té! I come from Japan, you know very well, " he answered, just as if hewere referring to the chief town of the department; "only I have dawdleda bit on the way, which prevented me from writing to you. "

"And during the last five months what has happened to you?"

"Pooh! I made an excursion into Abyssinia, in order to see the Negus, who owed me two hundred thousand francs. He has not paid me, the scamp!But how odd you do look! And that great _arleri_, François! how hestares at me with his full round eyes, as if I were going to swallow himup. Is there anything so very fierce about me? Hullo, you have alteredmy livery!" he went on; "they all look like ecclesiastics; have youtaken orders, then?"

"Why, uncle, these five months past we have been in mourning for you. "

"In mourning for _me_? You must be joking!"

"These five months past we have believed you to be dead, and havereceived all the documents proving your death!"

"Perhaps these documents informed you that I was buried, then?" headded, without changing countenance. 

"Why, yes, certainly!" I said. "We have also the certificate of yourinterment!"

At this my uncle Barbassou could restrain himself no longer, and wasseized with one of those fits of silent laughter which are peculiar tohim. 

"In this case--you would be my heir?" he said, in the middle of histransport of gaiety, which hardly permitted him to speak. 

"I am already, my dear uncle, " I replied, "and am in possession of allyour property!"

This reply put the finishing touch to his hilarity, and he started offagain into such a fit of laughter that I was caught by it, and so wasFrançois. 

But suddenly my uncle stopped, as if some reflection had crossed hismind, and seizing my hand with a sudden impulse he said:

"Ah! but now I think of it, my poor boy, you must have experienced asevere blow of grief!"

This was said with such frank simplicity, and proceeded so evidentlyfrom a heart guiltless of any dissimulation, that I swear to you I wasstirred to the bottom of my soul; my eyes filled with tears, and I threwmyself on to his neck to thank him. 

"Well, well!" he said, patting me on the shoulder to calm me, while heheld me in his arm; "never mind, old fellow, now that I'm back again!"

When breakfast was finished and the table cleared, we remained togetheralone. 

"Come, uncle, as soon as you have explained to me what has happened tolead to this story of your death, the next thing will be to take earlysteps for your resuscitation. "

"Take steps!" he exclaimed, "and for why?"

"Why, to re-establish your civil status and your rights of citizenshipas a live person. "

"Oh, they'll find out soon enough, when they see me, that I don't belongto the other world!" said he, quite calmly. 

"Now that you are regarded as defunct, you will not be able to doanything, to sign, to contract----"

"So, so! Never mind all that. Barbassou-Gratien-Claude-Anatole doesn'ttrouble himself about such trifles. "

"But your estates?" I said; "your property which I have inherited?"

"Have you paid the registration fees?" he asked me, in a serious tone. 

"Certainly I have, uncle. "

"Well! Do you want to put me to double expense for the benefit of thegovernment, which will make you pay it all over again at my real death?"

"What is it you mean to do, then?" said I. 

"You shall keep them! Now's your turn, " he added, in a chaffing tone;"all these forty years I have had the worry of them; it's your turn now, young man! You shall manage them, and make them your business; it willbe for you now to pay my expenses and all that!"

"I hope you don't dream of such a thing, my dear uncle!" I exclaimed. "Why even, supposing that I continue to manage your property----"

"Excuse me, " he said, "_your_ property! It is yours, the fees havingbeen duly paid. "

"Well, _our_ property, if you like, " I replied, with a laugh; "all thesame, I repeat you cannot remain smitten with civil death. "

"Bah! Bah! Political notions! But first explain to me how I come to bedead--that puzzles me. "

I then related to him what I have told you of this strange story; thenotary's letter informing me of the cruel news brought by my uncle'slieutenant Rabassu, confirmed by the most authentic documents, andaccompanied by a portfolio containing all his papers and letters, securities in his name, and agreements signed by him; proving, in short, an identity which it was impossible to dispute. 

"My papers!" he exclaimed. "They were not lost then?"

"I have them all, " I replied. 

"I begin to understand! It's all the fault of that stupid Lefébure. "

"Who is this Lefébure?" I asked. 

"I am going to tell you, " replied my uncle; "the whole thing explainsitself and becomes clear. --But I wonder, did not Rabassu with the newsof my death bring some camels?"

"Not a single camel, uncle. "

"That's odd! However, sit down, and I will tell you all about it. "

I sat down, and my uncle gave me the following narrative. I write it outfor you faithfully, my dear Louis; but what I cannot render for you, isthe inimitable tone of tranquillity in which he related it, just as ifhe were describing a fête at a neighbouring village. 

"In returning from Japan, " he said, "I must tell you that I put in atJava. Of course I landed there. On the pier-head, I recognised Lefébure, a sea-captain and an old friend of mine; he had given up navigation inorder to marry a mulattress there, who keeps a tobacco-shop. I said tohim 'Hullo, how are you?' He embraces me and answers that he is verydull. 'Dull?' I reply, 'well, come along with me to Toulon for a fewdays; my ship is in the harbour here, I will give you a berth in her, and send you home next month by "The Belle-Virginie!" My proposaldelights him, but his answer is that it is impossible. 'Impossible?Why?' 'Because I have a wife who would not hear of it!' 'We must seeabout that, ' I say to him. Well, we go to their shop; the wife makes ascene, cries and screams, calling him all sorts of names, and they fightover it. At last, while they are taking a moment's rest, I add that Ishall weigh anchor at six o'clock in the evening. 'I will wait for youuntil five minutes past six, ' I say; and then I go off to my business. At six o'clock I weighed anchor, and began to tack about a bit. At 6:10I was off, when I saw a barque approaching. I gave the order 'Stop her. 'It was Lefébure, who was making signs to us to stop. He comes up, getson board, and off we go. "

Fifteen days after that we put in at Ceylon for a few hours. On thetwenty-sixth day, as we arrived in sight of Aden, we observed a gooddeal of movement in the harbour. There was an English man-of-wardisplaying an admiral's flag, which they were saluting. On shore Ilearnt that she was carrying a Commission sent out to make somediplomatic representations to the Negus of Abyssinia. And who should Imeet but Captain Picklock, one of my old friends whose acquaintance Imade at Calcutta, where he was in one of the native regiments. Heinformed me that he was in command of the escort accompanying theenvoys. I said to Lefébure 'By the by, the Negus owes me somemoney--shall we go and make a trip there?' Lefébure replied, 'By allmeans let us!' I bought four horses and half-a-dozen camels, which Isent on board with my provisions; and we started with the envoys. We hadsome amusement on the way. I knew the country very well myself, but whenwe were half-way, at Adoua, where we halted for half a day, Leféburepicks up with an Arab woman. He wants to stay with her until the nextday, and says to me, 'Go on with the captain; I will join you againto-morrow with the convoy of baggage. ' I started off accordingly. Nextday, no Lefébure. That annoyed me rather, because he had kept thecamels. However, I continued my journey, thinking that I should find himagain on my return. Finally I arrived at the Negus's capital, just intime to hear that they were on the point of dethroning him. My intentionwas to apply to the English commissioners to help me in getting mylittle business settled. I found, however, that my portfolio and paperswere with Lefébure, who had the baggage; fortunately, I still had thegold which I carry in my belt. Then I naturally availed myself of thisopportunity to go off and wander about the interior, as far as Nubia, where I had some acquaintances. I commissioned Captain Picklock to tellLefébure to come on and join me at Sennaar, with the camels. So off Igo, and arrive in ten days' time at Sennaar, where I find the King ofNubia, who was not very happy about the political situation; he treatsme very hospitably, and I buy ivory and ostrich feathers of him. 

Three weeks go by, but no Lefébure! So I naturally avail myself of thedelay, for pushing on a bit into Darfour; when, lo and behold! just likemy luck, on the ninth day, as I am entering the outskirts of El-Obeid inKordofan, I am met by a predatory tribe of Changallas! They surround me;I try to defend myself, and a great burly rascal jumps at my throat, andtrips me up. I feel that I am being strangled by him; I deal him a blowin the stomach with my fist, and he tumbles backwards; only, as his handstill grips my throat, he drags me down with him; the others attack meat the same time, and I am captured! My blow appears to have been thedeath of the negro--which did not mend matters for me. They thrust me, bound fast like a bundle of wood, into a sort of shed, after robbing meof all my gold. 

I was carefully guarded. At the end of eight days I said to myself, 'Barbassou, your ship lies in the harbour of Aden; you have business toattend to, and you won't get out of your present scrape withoutconciliatory negotiations. You must resign yourself to a sacrifice!' Isend for the chief, and offer him as my ransom a cask containing fiftybottles of rum, ten muzzle-loading guns, and two complete uniforms of anEnglish general. This offer tempts him; but as I ask him first of all tohave me safe conducted to the King of Nubia, he answers that if once Igot there I should send him about his business. They confined me in apit, where I had only rice and bananas to eat, to which I am not at allpartial. As to the women, they are monkeys. However, after four monthsof negotiations we came to an agreement that I should be conveyed backto Sennaar, where I engaged upon my word of honour to give guarantees. 

I set off, still bound fast, with ten men to guard me. After a fortnightwe arrive in the town. I enquire for Lefébure. --No Lefébure. I then goto the king's palace--but he had just started off on a week's huntingexpedition. However, I find the sheik who was in command of the town, and relate my difficulty to him. He informs me that the treasury isclosed. I tell my guards that they can return, and that I will have myransom sent from Aden, but that does not content them; one of themseizes hold of me by the arm, but I gave him a good hiding. Finally thesheik furnishes me with an escort, and I return to Gondar. The Englishhad gone back, and I started on my voyage across to Aden. When I reachedAdoua, where I had left my friend Lefébure, I asked for him. Again noLefébure! However, I had the luck to find his Arabian sweetheart, whom Iquestioned about him. Her reply is, that the very day I left him, thestupid fellow went and caught a sunstroke, of which he died the sameday. I inquire after my baggage and my camels. --No baggage, no camels!They had all been forwarded to the Governor of Aden. 

"When I arrived at Aden, the Governor told me that everything which hadbeen received had been sent on board my ship, including the papers foundon my friend, and that a certificate of death had been duly drawn up, which my lieutenant was instructed to convey to the family. I asked nomore questions, and wrote at once a little note of condolence toLefébure's wife. I sent the agreed ransom to my Changallas, and at thesame time a letter of complaint to the King of Nubia. Altogether, it wasfour months since my ship had left Aden. The following day I took themail boat to Suez--arrived last night at Marseilles--and here I am!"

"Yes, indeed, " I said to my uncle, when he had concluded; "that explainsit all. They drew up the certificate of decease according to the papersfound on your friend Lefébure, and as they were yours----"

"Why, they mistook him for me; and that ass Rabassu went off with theship to bring the notary the news of my death. "

"That's clear, " I added. 

"But what puzzles me most, " replied he, "is to know what has become ofmy camels!"

As you may well imagine, my dear Louis, this unexpected resurrection ofmy uncle plunged me into a state of excitement, which took entirepossession of me. I could not see enough of him, or hear enough of him;and all that day I so completely forgot everything which did not concernhim, that I did not even think of moving outside the château. I followedhim from room to room, and kept looking at him, for I felt the need ofconvincing myself that he was really alive. As to him, quicklyrecovering from the very transitory astonishment into which the news ofhis supposed death had thrown him, he had resumed that splendidcomposure, which you remember in him. He superintended all his littlearrangements, and unpacked all his boxes, full of all sorts of articlesfrom Nubia, whistling all the while fragments of _bamboulas_ which werestill ringing in his ears. 

After dinner in the evening, he said to me, stretching out his long legsover the divan, with the air of a man who loves his ease:

"By Jove, it's very snug here! If you like, we will stay down hereseveral weeks. "

"As many weeks as you like, uncle, " I answered--"months even!"

"Well done!--But, " he continued, "won't you be rather dull?--for, unlessyou have some little distraction----"

"Ah!" I exclaimed, remembering all at once my harem; "I forgot to tellyou about this little affair!"

"What affair?" he said. "Have you found your distraction already, then?"

"I should just think I have, uncle!"

"Is she pretty?"

"Why, I have four!"

At this information my uncle did not raise his eyebrows any more than ifI had told him that I was occupying my leisure by practising the rusticflute; he only stretched out his arm, took my hand and shook it smartlyin the English fashion, saying, "My compliments, my dear fellow!--I beg your pardon for myindiscretion. "

"But, my dear uncle, I have quite a long story to tell you!" I added, not without a certain embarrassment "--and it is your death again thathas been the cause of it!"

"How was that? Tell me all about it. "

"You know, your Turkish pavilion--Kasre-el-Nouzha?"

"I know, well?"

"Well, four months ago, Mohammed-Azis arrived there. "

"Hullo!" he said, "Mohammed?"

"Yes, and you had entrusted him with a--a commission, " I continued. 

"True, " he exclaimed, "I had forgotten that!"

"Well, then, uncle----"

"He had accomplished his commission, I suppose, " continued he. 

"Yes, " I replied. "And as you were dead, and Mohammed's commissionformed part of my inheritance from you, I thought that it was my duty--"

"_Bigre!_" said my uncle, "you know how to act the heir very well, youdo!"

"Why indeed--" I continued, "remember that I could not suppose----"

"In short you've done it, " said he, "and it's all over, so don't let ussay anything more about it! And once more, forgive me. --Now that I knowall about it, nothing more need be said. Turks never discuss haremmatters. Only, " he added, "in order to avoid the necessity of returningto the subject, let me now recommend you to keep Mohammed; youunderstand? He knows the run of the ropes. And in order to makeeverything safe, as it would not do for me to be seen about there anymore, tell him to come and see me. "

"Do you wish me to send for him at once?"

"No, no, to-morrow will do. We have plenty of time. --Come, give me alittle music, will you? Play me something from Verdi--"

And he began to hum in his bass voice, slightly out of tune, snatchesfrom the air:

 "Parigi o cara, noi lasceremo. "

We passed a charming evening together, what with conversation, music, and cards. He won three francs of me at piquet, with a ridiculousdisplay of triumph. About twelve o'clock I took him to his bedroom. Whenhe was ready to get into bed, he exclaimed:

"_Té!_ I have some securities here which I had forgotten!" And taking apenknife, he proceeded to cut the stitches of his coat lining, fromwhich he drew out some papers. 

"See!" he said, as he held them out to me, "here are seven hundredthousand francs' worth of bills on London and Paris. You shall get themcashed. "

"Very well, uncle, " I replied. "And what do you want me to do with themoney?"

"Oh, upon my word, that's your affair, my _pichoun_! You may be sure, now that you have come into your inheritance, I am not going to betroubled with such matters!"

"Well, at least advise me about them. "

"But, my good fellow, that means that I am still to have all the botherabout them--. After all, " he continued, "keep the money if you like--itwill do for my pocket money. "

Thereupon he went to bed, I wished him good night, and was about toleave the room, when he called me back. 

"Come here, André! Write, if you please, to the notary and ask him tocome here to-morrow. "

"Ah!" I replied, "you're coming round to that at last!"

"I am coming round to nothing whatever!" he exclaimed, in a most decidedtone. "Only I want to know what has become of my camels! As you mayguess, I intended to present them to the Zoological Society. I must havethem found! Good night!"

I should certainly annoy you, my dear Louis, if I were to endeavour toimpress upon you the full significance of the amazing events throughwhich I have passed during these four months. I don't know of a singlemortal who has experienced more original adventures. The dreadful letterfrom the notary, my installation at Férouzat, my uncle's will, the haremtumbling down upon me from Turkey, the entering into completepossession of my fortune, and the whole crowned by the return of thedeceased. Certainly you will agree with me that these are incidentswhich one does not meet with in everyday life. Nevertheless, if you wantto know my ideas about them, I confess that they seem to me at thepresent moment to be nothing but the Necessary and the Contingent ofphilosophers, in their simplest application. I would go so far as toassert that, to a nephew of my uncle, things could not fall so tohappen, for it would show a want of training in the most elementaryprinciples of logic, to exhibit surprise at such little adventures, whenonce Barbassou-Pasha has been introduced on the scene as Prime Cause. The substratum of my uncle so powerfully influences my destiny, that tomy mind it would seem quite paradoxical to expect the same things everto happen to me as to any other man. Cease being astonished, therefore, at any strange peculiarities in my life, even if they be eccentricenough to shock a rigidly constituted mind. Like those erratic planetswhich deviate occasionally from their course, I move around theremarkable star called Barbassou-Pasha, and he draws me into his owneccentric orbit. In spite of a semblance of romantic complications amongthe really simple facts which I have related to you, I defy you todiscover in them the slightest grain of inconsistency. They can beperfectly well accounted for by the most natural causes and the mostordinary calculations of common sense. Cease your astonishment, therefore, unless you wish to fall into the lowest rank in myestimation. 

Having postulated the fact that I am the nephew of my uncle, I will nowreturn to the summarising of my situation. Well, my late uncle had cometo life again, but he wanted to keep all the advantages of his status asa dead man, by obliging me to remain in possession of his property. Ihad just said "good night" to him, while he was dreaming about hiscamels. Nothing could be less complicated than that. If all that is notin strict conformity with the character of Barbassou (Claude Anatole), Iknow nothing about him. Nevertheless, it was only natural that the daycelebrated by his return should give birth to some other incidents ofimportance. 

I had just left my uncle, and was walking towards the library to writeat once to the notary, when Francis informed me that a woman from theKasre had been waiting an hour to see me. One of the Greek servants camesometimes to the château, either with messages or to await my orders. Iconcluded at once that, not having seen me either during the day or inthe evening, my little animals had grown anxious and were sending toinquire after me. I went to my room, where Francis said the woman was. As I entered I saw her standing up, motionless, near the window, wrappedin her great black feridjié; but I had hardly shut the door behind mewhen, all at once, I heard a cry and sobs. The feridjié fell down, and Irecognised Kondjé-Gul, who threw herself on to my neck and seized me inher arms with signs of the deepest despair. 

"Good gracious!" I said, "is that you? _You_ come here?"

Breathless and suffocated with tears, she could not answer me. Iguessed, rather than heard, these words:

"I have run away! I have come to die with you!"

"But you are mad, dear, quite mad!" I exclaimed. "Why should you die?What has happened then?"

"Oh, we know all!" she continued. "Barbassou-Pasha has returned. He is aterrible man. He is going to kill you; us also; Mohammed also!"

And raving with fear she clung to me with all her strength, just as ifshe were already threatened with death. 

"But, my dear child, " I said, "this is all madness--who in the world hastold you such nonsense?"

"Mohammed. He heard of the Pasha's return--he has hidden himself. "

"But my uncle is a very kind man--he adores me, and does not even intendto see you. Nothing will be changed for us by his return. "

Seeing me so calm, she was gradually reassured. Still she was too muchpossessed by her Turkish notions to believe all at once in such adeparture from correct oriental usages. 

"Well then, " she said as she dried her tears, "he will only killMohammed?"

"Not even Mohammed!" I exclaimed, with a smile. "Mohammed is a poorcoward, and I will give him a bit of my mind to-morrow, so that heshan't worry you with any more nonsense of this kind. "

"You don't mean it?" she replied. "Then he will only get a beating?"

I was about to protest, when I perceived by her first words that shesuspected I wanted to play upon her credulity. There was thus a dangerof reviving her worst fears, for she would not believe any more of myassurances. I contented myself therefore with promising to intercedewith Barbassou-Pasha. Once convinced that Mohammed's punishment wouldextend no further than his hind-quarters, she troubled herself no moreabout it, but with the characteristic volatility of these little wildcreatures, began to chatter and examine all the things in my room, touching and feeling everything with an insatiable curiosity. 

"Come now, you must go home, " I said to her, not wishing this littleexcursion of hers to be discovered. 

"Oh, no! Oh, no!" she cried, with childlike delight. "It's your home--dolet me look at it!"

"Oh, but you must go and comfort Zouhra, Nazli, and Hadidjé!"

"They are asleep, " she said. "I want to stay a little time here alonewith you! Besides, " she added, with a little frightened look stilllingering on her face, "suppose Barbassou-Pasha has been deceiving you, suppose he is coming to kill you to-night?"

"But once more I tell you, dear, you are _mad!_"

"Well then, why send me back so soon?"

"Because it is not proper for you to leave the harem, " I answered. "Comealong, off you go!"

"Oh, just a little longer!--I beg you, dear!" she said, with a kiss. 

How could I resist her, my dear Louis? Tell me?

I sat down, watching her moving about and rummaging everywhere. I musttell you that under her feridjié (which she had let down on my entranceinto the room), she was dressed in a sort of loose gown of pale bluecashmere, embroidered with lively designs in silk and gold. Hersnow-white arms emerged from wide, hanging sleeves. This costumeproduced a charming picturesque effect in the midst of my room, which, although comfortable, was very prosaic in its style--although to her itseemed wonderful. She touched everything, for she could not be satisfiedwith seeing only, and her questions never ceased. .. . At last, afterhalf-an-hour, considering her curiosity to be satisfied, as she wasbeginning to ransack the books lying on my table, I said once more, "Come, Kondjé-Gul, you must go. "

With these words, I picked up her feridjié, and took her back to theharem. A pale light was shining through the windows of the drawing-room. Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhra were still there. To describe the terrorwhich came over their faces directly I appeared, would be impossible. Hearing steps in the night, they made sure their last moments hadarrived. At the sound of the door opening, they cried out loud--thethree poor miserable things took refuge in a corner. 

When they saw me enter with Kondjé-Gul, they were thrown into a greatconsternation. With a few words I reassured them at once. 

As to Mohammed, it was impossible to find him. I will confess, moreover, that I felt very little interest in searching for him--I was far fromill-pleased with the thought that he was paying for the trouble whichhis stupidity had caused my poor darlings, by a night of fear andtrembling. 

My lamb having returned to the fold, I eventually retraced my steps tothe château. 

Is it necessary to tell you that the surprising events of the day hadcaused me emotions which I was scarcely able to understand?

My uncle's resurrection--

Lefébure--

The Changallas--

The camels--

They all kept my brain at work the whole night long. 

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER IV. 

I apologise, my dear Louis, for having left you a month without a letterfrom me, as you reproach me somewhat severely. You are not afraid, Ishould hope, that my friendship for you has cooled. The real cause of mysilence is that I have had nothing to tell you. The even tenor of myexistence permits only of daily repetitions of the same very simpleevents. My affections being divided between my harem and my uncleBarbassou, I revel in the tranquillity of the fields and woods, whichafford to my mind that quiet freedom which is always more or lessdisturbed by the excited atmosphere of city life. 

Do not imagine, however, that we have been living like monastics, disdaining all worldly distractions: the governor is not the man tolead the existence of a Carthusian monk. He is as much on horseback ason foot. In the daytime we make hunting excursions; he visits his"god-children" and my estates: you may rely upon it, I have got anactive steward in _him_! In the evening we receive our friends at thechâteau--the vicar, the Morands, father and son, and, twice a week, thenotary. We play whist at penny points, and very lively games ofpiquet--only the latter not so often, as my uncle cheats at it. Abouteleven o'clock the carriages are got ready to take these people home. Ithen accompany my uncle to his room, and we talk over business matters, and about my _fiancée_; for, of course, my marriage with his"god-daughter" is an understood thing, and we have not even a notion ofdiscussing the question. Finally, when he gets sleepy, he goes to bed, and I go off to El-Nouzha. 

Besides these occupations we have another very serious one, namely, rummaging among the mass of curios which he heaped up together in thelumber-room of the château. 

"Ah, André!" my uncle said to me one day, with the reproachful accent ofa faithful steward, "you have a lot of fine things up there which youare very foolish to leave in that lumber-hole. If I were you, I wouldhave them all out!"

"Let us get them all out then at once, uncle, " I answered. 

Thereupon we set to work sorting them out, and you have no idea of thethings we found--valuable paintings, works of art, rare old furniture, and arms of all countries. You will see what a museum they constitute, if you make an excursion down here, as you have promised. Really, for anartist of your genius, this alone would be worth the journey. 

We also pay visits at the two neighbouring châteaux of the Montanbecsand the Camboulions; but confine ourselves strictly to the customaryconventionalities between neighbours, the female element which weencounter at these places belonging, as my uncle puts it, to the verylowest zoological order of beings. 

Once a week we dine at Doctor Morand's. He is a man of great ability, who has only missed making his mark through want of a wider field. He isthe one mortal capable of exercising an influence over CaptainBarbassou, if the character of the latter did not place him out of reachof all external control. In this home family life reigns in its happiestand most charming simplicity, represented by a goodly quiver-full ofchildren. I have already told you about young Morand, the spahi, and hiscousin Geneviève. 

Geneviève, with her nineteen summers, is the eldest, by several years, of a prolific brood, the offspring of her mother's second marriage. Thedoctor, who is a rich man for his district, took them all to live withhim after his sister's death. A more delightful and refreshing placecannot be found than this heaven-blest home, the very atmosphere ofwhich breathes the odour of peaceful happiness and honest purity. Youshould see Geneviève, _la grande_, surrounded by her four _petits_, herbrothers and sisters, with their chubby faces, all neat and clean, obedient and cheeky at the same time, and kept in order by her with ayouthful discipline, flavoured now and then with a spice of playfulness. Is she really pretty? I confess I cannot decide. The question of beautyin her case is so completely put out of mind by a certain charm ofmanner, that one forgets to analyse it. She has certainly fine eyes, forthey hold you spell-bound by the soul shining through them. GeorgeMorand, her _fiancé_, adores her, and, headstrong _Africain_ though heis, even he feels an influence within her which subjugates his fieryspirit. They could not be a better match for each other, and will livehappily together. She will chasten the exuberant ardour of the Provençalwarrior. 

My uncle professes to detest "the brats;" it is needless, perhaps, toadd that, directly he arrives, the whole of them rush to him, climb onhis knees, and stay there for the rest of his visit. He is their horse;he makes boats for them, and all the rest of it. The other day you mighthave seen him grumbling as he sewed a button on Toto's drawers (which hehad torn off by turning him head over heels), fearing lest Genevièveshould scold him. 

I am very cordially welcomed by the whole house, and you may imaginewhat interminable discussions the doctor and I carry on. Having beenformerly a professor in the School of Medicine at Montpellier, he wasled by his researches in physiology to a very pronounced materialism. Now that he has read my spiritualistic articles, he tries hard to breakdown my arguments. On the third side, my uncle, as a Mahometan, wants toconvert him to deism; you may judge from this how much harmony there isbetween us; you might take us for an Academy!

At El-Nouzha the same life goes on still; but I must take thisopportunity of correcting a dangerous mistake you appear to have falleninto, to judge from the tone of your letters. In everything thatconcerns my harem, you really speak as if you had in mind the fantasticand tantalising experiences of a second blessed Saint Anthony, exposedto the continual provocations of the most voluptuous beauties of theCourt of Satan. Indeed, one might say (between you and me and the post), that your Holiness was less scared than inquisitive regarding theseterrible scorchings. You old sinner! The real truth is that everythingbecomes a habit after a while, and that, now the first effervescence ofpassion is over, this life grows much more simple than you imagine. Youmust not believe that we lead a riotous existence of continual lusts andorgies. Such notions, my dear fellow, are only the fruit of ignoranceand of prejudice. 

Let me tell you that my harem is to me at the present time a mosttranquil home, and that, but for the fact that I have four wives, everything about it has permanently assumed the every-day aspect of asimple household. Our evenings are spent in conversation round thedrawing-room table with music and dancing, conducted in a thoroughlyamiable and cheerful spirit, and all set off by the accomplishments ofmy sultanas. I combine in my conjugal relations the dignified orientalbearing of a vizir with the tender sentimentalities of a Galaor, and inthis I have really attained to an exquisite perfection. 

In fact, it would be the Country of Love in the Paradise of Mahomet, butfor a few clouds which, since my uncle's return, have obscured thebright rays of my honeymoon. I have had some trouble with Hadidjé andNazli, who seem determined to make a trip over to the château asKondjé-Gul had done; for, as might have been foreseen, as soon as heralarms had subsided, this silly creature, with the view no doubt ofexciting their jealousy, and posing as the favourite, had taken care torelate to them all the wonders of this, to them, forbidden place. Ofcourse I refused at once to permit such an irregularity, contrary as itwas to all harem traditions. This refusal was the signal for a scene oftears and jealous passions, which I subdued, but which only gave way tothe tender reproaches of slighted affections. Well, I try to jog alongas well as I can, as all husbands have to do, but I have a vaguepresentiment of troubles still in the air. 

I have reopened my letter. 

I hope you won't be astonished, my dear fellow, but--I have anotherpiece of news relating to Barbassou-Pasha. 

The day before yesterday, while my uncle and I were chatting together, as is our custom, before he went to bed, I observed that he yawned inan unusual manner. I had remarked this symptom before, and I drew my ownconclusion from it, which was that overtaken once more by hisadventurous instincts, he was beginning to find life tedious in thedepartment of Le Gard, --he was longing for something or other, that wascertain! And I began ransacking my mind to find some new food upon whichhe might exercise his all-devouring energy, when he said to me, justbefore I left him--

"By the bye, André, I have written to your aunt that I am returned. Shewill probably arrive some time between now and the end of the week. "

"Ah!" I replied; "well, uncle, that's capital! I shall be delighted tohave our family life back again. "

"Yes, the house will seem really furnished then, " he continued. "Well, good night, my boy!"

"Good night, uncle. "

Then I left him. 

Now, although this legitimate conjugal desire of my uncle's was quiterational on his part, you may nevertheless imagine that I went to bedrather puzzled. Which of my aunts should I see arrive? My uncle hadacquainted me with this design in such an artless manner that it neveroccurred to me to venture any question on the subject. I began thereforeto form conjectures based upon his present frame of mind, as to which ofhis wives he had probably selected. 

I commenced by setting aside my aunt Cora, of the Isle of Bourbon. Itwas not very likely that the Pasha wanted to add to his past ontologicalresearches upon the coloured races. Excluding also my aunt Christina dePostero, whose adventure with Jean Bonaffé had brought her intodisgrace, there remained only my aunt Lia Ben Lévy, my aunt Gretchen VanCloth, and my aunt Eudoxie de Cornalis, so that the question was nowconsiderably narrowed. Still I must confess that it was not much use mysetting all my powers of induction to work, taking as my premises thecaptain's age, his present tastes, his plans, &c. All I succeeded indoing was to lose myself in a maze of affirmations and contradictionsfrom which I could find no way out. The best thing to be done was towait. So I waited. 

I had not long to wait for that matter. Two days after, while I was inmy room, I saw a carriage drive up. Its only occupant was a lady, whoseemed to me to be very handsome and very elegantly dressed. On the box, by the coachman's side, sat a lady's maid; behind were two men-servantsof superior style in their travelling livery. The carriage stopped. Atthe sound of the wheels on the gravel, my uncle's window opened. 

"Hoi! is that you?" he shouted. "How are you, my dear!"

"How are you, captain!" replied the lady. "You see you have not beenforgotten, you ungrateful wretch!"

"Thanks for that. Nor am I any more forgetful on my side. "

"That's all right, " replied the lady; "but why don't you come down andgive me a hand? You're very gallant!"

"Well, my dear, I'm coming as fast as I can!" said my uncle. 

I must confess I still remained somewhat puzzled at the sight of thisfair traveller, whose appearance did not recall to me any of my aunts. Could Barbassou-Pasha have contracted another marriage since the date ofhis will? Out of delicacy I kept out of the way, in order not to disturbtheir affectionate greetings, but as my uncle passed my door on his wayout, he said to me, "André, aren't you coming?" I followed him. We arrived just as the ladywas stepping briskly up the doorsteps. 

"Too late, captain!" she said, "I could not stay there, penned up inthat carriage. "

This reproach did not prevent them from shaking hands very heartily. Then as I came up, my uncle said in his quick way, "Kiss your aunt Eudoxia!"

At this injunction I forthwith embraced my aunt, and I must admit thatas I kissed her I could not repress a smile, recollecting thissacramental phrase of my uncle's. 

"My goodness! is that André?" she exclaimed, "Oh! excuse me, sir, " shecontinued rapidly; "this familiar name slipped from my tongue, atremembrance of the bonny boy of old times. "

"Pray take it for granted, madam!" I answered. 

"Then don't call me madam!"

"What does that matter, _my aunt_; to obey you I shall be delighted toreturn to old times. "

"Very well then, _my nephew_, " she added; "see that my servants arelooked after, and then let us come in!"

All this was said in that free-and-easy tone which denotes aristocraticbreeding, and with so much of the assurance of a woman accustomed to thebest society, that I was for a moment almost taken aback by it. My earlyimpressions of her had only left in my mind confused recollections of anamiable and fascinating young woman (so far as I could judge at thatage), and now my aunt suddenly appeared in a character which I had notat all anticipated. Assuredly I should never have recognised her, although time had not at all impaired the beauty of her face. 

I will therefore draw her portrait afresh. Picture to yourself a womanof about thirty-five, although her real age is forty-two. Her figureexhibits a decided _embonpoint_, but this detracts not in the least fromits gracefulness, for she is a tall woman, and has also quite apatrician style about her. Her erect head, and the profound dignity ofher expression--everything about her in fact--might be taken to denote ahaughty nature, were it not for that extreme simplicity of manner whichappears natural to her. Notwithstanding the firmness of her language, the tone in which it is uttered is as soft as velvet, and her light, musical accent suggests the frank and easy bearing of a Russian lady ofhigh rank. 

Such is the description of my aunt. 

My uncle had offered her his arm. As soon as we entered thedrawing-room, she said, while taking off her hat:

"Ah, now you must at once explain to me this story of your death, whichI received from a notary. For six months I have been fancying myself awidow!"

"You can see that there's nothing in it, " replied my uncle. 

"That's nice!" she exclaimed, laughing and holding her hand out to him asecond time. "Another of your eccentricities, I suppose!"

"Not in the least, my dear; André here can tell you that I positivelypassed for a dead man, and that he went into mourning for me. He haseven entered into the possession of my property as my heir. "

"It's an ill wind that blows nobody any good, " she answered; "but howwas it that they put you in the grave by mistake? I am curious to know. "

"I was in Abyssinia. "

"Close by, is it?" asked she, interrupting him. 

"Yes, " continued my uncle. "A friend who was travelling with me, stayedbehind at a place on our way, while I went forward, and he managed todie in such a stupid and ill-timed manner that, as my baggage was withhim, it was from my papers that his certificate of death was made out. It was only on my return here, five months later, that I learnt that Ihad been taken for dead. You see what a simple story it is. "

"Well, of course, " said my aunt, "such things are quite a commonoccurrence! That will teach you the result of not taking me with you onyour travels. Was it also on account of this trip in Abyssinia that Ihave not seen you for two years? Oh stop, my dear nephew!" she added inan engaging tone, "a family scene is an instructive event; it forms----. Go on, captain, answer me. "

"Two years?" replied my uncle. "Is it really two years?"

"Consult your log-books, if they have not been buried with your friend. "

"Ah! forgive me, dear Eudoxia, I have had during all this time mostimportant business. "

"Yes, " continued my aunt, "we all know what important business you have;I've heard some fine accounts of you. Do you know what Lord Clifden toldme at St. Petersburg three months ago, while complimenting me upon mywidow's mourning, which, by the way, suited me extremely well? He toldme that during your lifetime you had been a bigamist. "

"What a likely story!" exclaimed my uncle, boldly. 

"He assured me that he had seen you at Madras with a Spanish woman, youold traitor! She was young and pretty, and passed openly by the name ofSeñora Barbassou. It was surely not worth while making me elope withyou, in order that you might treat me in this fashion!"

"Lord Clifden told you a story, my dear, and a very silly story too. Ihope you did not believe a word of it?"

"Upon my word, you are such an eccentric character, you know!" sheanswered, with a laugh. 

"And what have you been doing yourself?" continued my uncle, whosecoolness had not deserted him for an instant; "where have you been?"

"Oh, if I were to reckon back to the day you left me, I should losemyself!" replied my aunt. "A year ago, at this season, I was on myestate in the Crimea, where I vegetated for five months; then I spentthe winter at St. Petersburg, and the spring at my château in Corfu, where I had the advantage of a comfortable place in which to mourn overyou. Finally I had been two months at Vienna, when I received from mysteward eight days ago the letter in which you did me the honour ofinforming me both of your resurrection and of your desire to see me. Iquickly made my farewell calls, started off, and here I am! Now, " sheadded, holding out a plaid to him, "if you will kindly allow me tochange these travelling clothes, you will make my happiness complete. "

"I am waiting to take you to your room, " replied my uncle. 

"Nephew, " she said to me with a curtsey, "prepare to minister to mycaprices; I have plenty of them when I love. --In return let me say toyou, Take it for granted. "

They left the room, and I felt quite astonished at the way they greetedeach other. You can already understand the effect which my aunt musthave produced on me, and I was no less surprised at the new traits whichI discovered in my uncle's character. A complete revolution had beeneffected. He became all at once very natty in his dress. His roughstraggling beard was trimmed in the Henri IVth style, and his moustacheswere twirled up at the ends. He left off swearing; his language and hismanners at once assumed the most correct tone, without constraint orembarrassment, and with a modulation so natural, that it seemed reallyto indicate a very long familiarity with fashionable practice. He hadnot made a single slip. His frank gallantry had nothing artificial aboutit; he was another man, and it was quite evident this was the only manthat Eudoxie de Cornalis had ever known him to be. 

"Well! what do you think of your aunt?" he asked me as he came in afterfive minutes' absence. 

"She is charming, uncle, and as gracious as possible!"

"Did you expect to find her a monkey, then?" he exclaimed. 

"Certainly not!" I replied. "But my aunt might have been beauty itself, and still have lacked the character and the intellectual qualities whichI observe in her. "

"Oh, you can't at all judge of her yet!" continued he, in a carelesstone. "You'll see what I mean later on. She's a real woman!"

My aunt did not come down again until luncheon-time. Her appearancecreated quite an atmosphere of cheerful society in the dining-room, usually occupied only by my uncle and his nephew. My uncle was no doubtconscious of the same impression, for leaning towards me, he said to mein his inimitably cool manner, and in a low voice, "Don't you see how everything brightens up already?"

My aunt sat down, and as she took off her gloves, cast her eyes over thetable, the sideboards, the servants in waiting, and the generalarrangements of the dining-room. 

"François, " she said to my uncle's old man-servant, "please send thegardener to me at four o'clock. "

"Yes, Madame la Comtesse. "

"And then send the steward, whom I do not see here. "

"Oh, _I_ am the steward!" replied my uncle. 

"That's capital! My compliments to you, " she continued; "I might haveknown it. "

"All the same, I fancy I perform my duties very well: is not this newfurniture to your taste?"

"Not only so, but I find it very handsome, and I appreciate yourantiquarian passion for rare and choice objects; only there is a want oflife about it. What are those great vases, may I ask, whose enormousmouths stand empty to receive the dust?"

"Those Mandarins!" said my uncle; "they come from the palace of theEmperor of China. "

"Oh, the men, the men!" exclaimed my aunt with a laugh: "if they were inParadise they would forget to contemplate the Eternal! Now, captain, mylord and spouse, pray tell me of what use to you are beds full offlowers, if you never rejoice your eyes with the sight of them?"

The luncheon went off charmingly and merrily. As she chatted with us, myaunt signalled to Francis and gave him her instructions for thoseinnumerable comforts which a woman only can think of. My uncle, as if byenchantment, found everything ready to hand; before he had time to askfor anything to drink, he found his glass filled. We had not beenaccustomed to this kind of service. When we left the table my aunt said, "Let us take a turn in the grounds. "

She took my arm and we started off. I won't trouble you with adescription of this walk, in the course of which my aunt and I succeededin improving our acquaintance. We soon grew to understand each otherthoroughly. With supreme tact, and without apparent design on her part, she had led me on by discreet questions to give her, before a quarter ofan hour had passed, a complete catalogue from A. To Z. Of all mystudies, my tastes, and my pursuits, including of course my youthfulescapades, which made her smile more than once. 

In this outpouring I excepted, as you may be sure, the revelations of mycareer as a pasha. My uncle walked close to us, but left us to talktogether. One might have thought that he was resuming his maritalduties, interrupted only the evening before, without their course havingbeen disturbed by any appreciable incident. All at once, we arrived atthe foot-path which leads to the Turkish house. 

"Ah! let us go into Kasre-El-Nouzha!" said my aunt. 

At this I glanced at my uncle with an air of distress; he, withoutwincing in the least, said:

"The communicating door is walled up. Kasre-El-Nouzha is let. "

"Let!" she exclaimed; "To whom?"

"To an important personage, Mohammed-Azis, a friend of mine fromConstantinople. You do not know him. "

"You ungrateful wretch!" she continued with a laugh: "that's the way youobserve my memory, is it?"

She did not press the subject. You may guess what a relief that was tome. 

After we had strolled about the grounds for an hour, my aunt Eudoxia hadmade a complete conquest of me. But although everything about herexcited my curiosity, I had put very few questions to her, not wishingfrom motives of delicacy to appear entirely ignorant of her history;such ignorance, indeed, would have appeared strange in a nephew. Sheseemed quite disposed, however, to answer all my questions without anyfencing, and to treat me as an intimate friend. What I felt mostsurprised at was the attitude of my uncle, who had never said any moreto me about her than about my aunt Cora of Les Grands Palmiers. Therereigned betwixt them the affectionate manners of the happiest possiblecouple; they discussed the past, and I could see that their union hadnever been weakened or affected, notwithstanding my uncle's Mahometanproceedings, which she really appears never to have suspected. Idiscovered that she had accompanied him on board his ship, duringseveral of his voyages, and that two years back he had stayed six monthswith her at Corfu. As for him, he talked in such a completely innocentmanner, betokening such a pure conscience, that I came to the conclusionhe was probably on just as good a footing with all his other spouses, and that he would not have been the least bit more embarrassed with myaunt Van Cloth, had she chanced to turn up. 

When we returned to the château, my aunt asked me to have some lettersposted for her. I went to her room to take them from her; she had foundtime to write half-a-dozen for all parts of the world. While she wassealing them, I had a look at the numerous articles with which she hadfilled and garnished her boudoir. There were on the table flowers invases, books and albums; on the mantelpiece, several portraits arrangedon little gilt easels, among which was a splendid miniature of a young, handsome man, in Turkish costume embroidered with gold, and having onhis head a fez ornamented with an egret of precious stones. 

"Do you recognise this gentleman, " said my aunt, as I was stooping tolook at it more closely. 

"What!" I exclaimed; "Can that be my uncle?"

"The very man, dressed up as a great mamamouchi. It is a greatcuriosity, for you are aware of his Turkish notions on the subject. According to these, one ought not to have one's image made. "

"Upon my word, that's quite true, " I said; "it is the first portrait Ihave seen of him. "

"I have every reason for believing that it is the only one, " she repliedwith a smile; "this was the most difficult victory I ever won over him. "

We then began to discuss my uncle and his eccentricities, combined withhis remarkable talents. She related to me some events and features inhis life which would not be out of place in the legend of a hero ofantiquity; amongst other matters she told me the story of theirmarriage, which runs briefly as follows:--

My aunt, a daughter of one of the richest and noblest Greek families, lived with her father at a castle in Thessaly, a country which is partlyMahometan. During the feast of Bairam, the Turks commenced a massacre ofChristians, which lasted three days. Several families, taking refuge ina church, had fortified themselves there, and with their servants weredefending themselves desperately against their assailants. The assassinshad already broken open the door of the sanctuary, and were about to cutall their throats, when suddenly a man came galloping up, followed by afew soldiers. He struck right and left with his scimitar in the thick ofthe crowd outside, and reached the doorway, causing his horse to rear upon the pavement. He slays some, and terrifies all. The Christians aresaved!

This cavalier with his scimitar was my uncle, who was then in command ofthe province. The unhappy wretches who had escaped assassination pressedabout him, and surrounded him; the girls and the women threw themselvesat his feet. My aunt was one of these unfortunates; she was then fifteenyears old, and as beautiful as noonday. You may guess how herimagination was wrought on by the sight of this noble saviour. My uncleon his side was thunderstruck by the contemplation of so much beauty. Having to judge and punish the rebels, he established his head-quartersin the castle of the Cornalis. He sentenced twenty persons to death, anddemanded Eudoxia's hand in marriage. This, notwithstanding hisgratitude, the father refused to grant to a Turkish general. 

The lovers were desperate, and separated, exchanging vows of eternalfidelity. Finally, after three months of correspondence and clandestinemeetings, an elopement ensued, followed up quickly by marriage. It wasas the sequence of this event that my uncle, induced by love, andmoreover disgraced again for having exercised too much justice in favourof the Christians, finally quitted the service of the Sultan. His pardonby the Cornalis followed, and it was at this time that he obtained fromthe Pope the title of Count of the Holy Empire. 

All this will serve to explain to you how it is that my aunt, as anheiress of great wealth, possesses in her own right a very largeindependent fortune in the Crimea. 

We have now been living together for a fortnight, and during this timeFérouzat has been completely transformed. My aunt Eudoxia is certainlyvery _meublante_, as my uncle calls it, and she has brought into thehouse quite an attractive element of brightness. She has naturallyintroduced into our circle a certain amount of etiquette, which doesnot, however, encroach upon the liberties of country life, or disturbthat easy-going elegance which forms one of the charms of existenceamong well-bred people. The Countess of Monteclaro, as might well havebeen foreseen, having already been intimately acquainted with DoctorMorand, begins to take a most friendly interest in MademoiselleGeneviève. As a consequence, Geneviève and the children spend almost alltheir time at the château. In the evenings we have gatherings to whichall the young people of the neighbourhood are invited; my aunt, who isan excellent musician, organises concerts, and we generally finish upwith a dance. 

These worldly recreations afford me a clearer insight into theanalytical details of my oriental life, which is now more than everenveloped in the profoundest mystery. I have invented a story ofimportant botanical studies upon the flora of Provence, in order tojustify certain daily excursions which naturally terminate in El-Nouzha. It is well-known, moreover, that I sometimes visit His ExcellencyMohammed-Azis, but with the discretion which respect for a greatmisfortune naturally entails. The exiled minister is no longer evendiscussed among us; everybody knows that "he shuts himself up like abear in his den, " and there is an end of it. 

My aunt is the perfection of a woman. Nothing can be more delightfulthan our conversations. Her manner partakes both of the indulgence of amother and of the unrestrained intimacy of a friend. She still remembersthe child she used to dance upon her knees; and, although I had for along while forgotten her very existence, my present affection for her isnone the less sincere because it is of such recent growth. I mustconfess that, after my confined existence at school and college, I amdelighted with these pleasures of home life, to which I was until latelyquite a stranger. 

My aunt, as you may guess, is acquainted with my uncle's famous plan forthe future, and knows Anna Campbell, the Pasha's _god-daughter_. Youshould hear her chaff him anent this god-fathership, on the strength ofwhich she claims that the captain has returned to the bosom of theChurch without knowing it. She tells me that Anna is a charming girl. Thus petted and entertained, I live in other respects very much as Ilike, and sometimes pass the whole day in the library. I should add thatmy aunt, who is as sharp as a weasel, makes her own comments upon myfrequent absences from the château. 

"André, " she asked me the other day with a smile, "is your 'Botany' darkor fair?"

"Fair, my dear aunt, " I answered, laughing as she did. 

In the midst of all this the Pasha, still emulating one of the Olympiangods, proceeds on his course with that tranquillity of spirit whichnever forsakes him. Two days ago, who should come down upon us butRabassu, his lieutenant, the Rabassu whom my uncle has always called his"murderer. " He has brought home "La Belle Virginie" from Zanzibar with acargo of cinnamon; for, as you are aware, we (or rather _I_) still tradein spices. Being now the head of the firm, I have to sell off the lastconsignments. Rabassu heard of the resurrection of Barbassou-Pashadirectly he arrived at Toulon. He hurried off to us quite crestfallen, and when he met the captain literally trembled at the thought of thehurricane he would now have to face. But everything passed off verysatisfactorily. My uncle interrupted his first mutterings of apologywith a gentle growl, and contented himself with chaffing him for hisinfantine credulity. 

However, this incident has revived the vexed question of the camels. "Where are they?" asks the captain. Having promised to send them to theZoological Gardens at Marseilles, he feels his honour is at stake; theymust be found. I support him in this view; my inherited property is ofcourse incomplete without them. Urgent letters on the subject have justbeen despatched to his friend Picklock, and to the officer in command atAden. If necessary, a claim will be lodged against England; she isundoubtedly responsible for them. 

In my next letter I will tell you all the news relating to El-Nouzhafrom the time when I last interrupted this interesting part of mynarrative. My houris are making progress, and their education isimproving. We are going on swimmingly. 

[Illustration]

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CHAPTER V. 

The Turks are calumniated, my friend, there's no doubt about it. It isnot enough for us to say and to believe, with the vulgar herd, thatthese turbaned people are wallowing in materialism and are notcivilised; we must do more than this, and convict them of their errors. We, fortified with a singular infatuation in our ideas, our habits, andour personal associations, venture to settle by our sovereign decreesthe loftiest questions of sentiment. The rules to be observed by theperfect lover in the courtship and treatment of his lady-love, have beensettled at tournaments, by the Courts of Love of Isaure, and by theCollege of the Gay Science. Our pretensions to troubadourism have neverbeen abandoned. The affectations of "L'Astrée" have been erected into acode of Love, and we have succeeded in establishing the French cavalieras the paragon of excellence in love matters, and the perfect type ofgallantry. The saying "to die for one's lady-love" rises so naturally toour lips that the most insignificant cornet might warble it to hisCélimène without causing her to smile. 

You will nevertheless admit, I hope, that we ought to discard a few ofthese absurd expressions. That we know how to make love is not much toboast about, after all. The only important point for us as philosophersis to know whether our ideal is really the higher ideal--whether ourtreatment of woman is really more worthy both of her and of ourselvesthan the pagan treatment which prevails among the Eastern nations? Hereat once crops up the elementary dispute between the votaries of polygamyand monogamy. Both these institutions are based upon divine and humanlaws, both are written down and defined in moral codes, and in sacredbooks. One takes its origin in the Bible, and remains faithful to itstraditions; the other has developed at some period, from the simpleconventions of a new social order. We must not conclude that we alonepossess the knowledge of absolute truth, merely because our conceitpostulates for us the superiority of our time-honoured civilisation. Allwisdom proceeds from God alone, and truth is for us only relative toplace, time, and habit. Was not Jacob, when he married at the same timeLeah and Rachel, the daughters of Laban, nearer than we are now to theprimitive sentiment of the laws of nature and of revelation? Do youpresume to blame him, insignificant being that you are, because yieldingto the supplication of his beloved Rachel he espoused--somewhatsuperfluously it may be--her handmaid Bala, with the simple object ofhaving a son by her? In presence of this idyl of the patriarchal age, what becomes of all our theories, our ideas, and our prejudices, thefruits after all of a hollow and worthless education?

You will not, I trust, do me the wrong of believing that I, wavering inmy faith, intend forthwith to abandon the principles in which I wasbrought up. But a subject so serious as the one I have been devotingmyself to, demands the most frank and honest examination. I will notdeliver a judgment; I will merely state the facts. Now it is anestablished fact that the people who permit by their laws a plurality ofwives are, even at the present time, far more numerous than themonogamists. Statistics prove that out of the thousand millioninhabitants of this globe, Christianity with all its sects, and Judaismthrown in, does not number more than two hundred and sixty millionsaccording to Balbi, or two hundred and forty millions according to theLondon Bible Society. 

Since the remainder, consisting of Mahometans, Buddhists, Fire-worshippers, and Idolaters, all practise polygamy more or less, itfollows that on this globe of ours, the monogamists constituteone-fourth only of the whole population. Such is the naked, unadornedtruth!

Are we wrong? Are they right? It is not my business to decide thispoint. Philosophers and theologians far more patient than I am, havegiven it up as a bad job. Voltaire, with his subtle genius, settled thequestion in his own characteristic fashion, by supposing that animaginary God had from the beginning decreed an inequality in thismatter, regulated by geographical situation, in these words:--

"I shall draw a line from Mount Caucasus to Egypt, and from Egypt toMount Atlas; all men dwelling to the east of this line shall bepermitted to marry several wives, while those to the west of it shallhave one only. "

And, as a matter of fact, it is so. 

But having disposed of this important point, there remains a loftierquestion for us to elucidate--one consisting entirely of sentiment. Thetreatment of woman being our only objective, our present business is todecide on which side of the line its character is the most respectful, the most worthy and the most flattering towards her. Certainly ourdoctrine is purer, our law more divine. Nevertheless, as sincere judges, we ought, perhaps, to examine and see whether we do not transgressagainst our absolute principles. And I must confess that I cannot nowapproach this delicate question without some misgiving. In the judgmentof every tribunal, the case of polygamy is a hopelessly bad one. That Iam ready to admit; but might it not be urged against the other side thatin practice the court knows very well that the law is not observed? Whatjudge can be found, however austere, who has never offended against it?To sum the matter up briefly (whispering low our confessions, if youlike), what man is there among us--I am not talking of Don Juans, whocatalogue their amours, nor of Lovelaces, but of ordinary men of saythirty years old--who can remember how many mistresses he has had? What, is this the monogamy we have been making such a flourish about?

Perhaps you will say that we need not see in these irregularitiesanything more than a sort of licensed depravity, tolerated for the sakeof maintaining a virtuous ideal. But consider the fatal consequences ofthis hypocrisy. What becomes of our aspirations of the age of twenty, ofour dreams and poetic fancies, after we have plunged into these wretchedconnections, these degrading, promiscuous attachments which form thecurrent of our present habits, and from which we emerge at the age ofthirty, sceptics, and with hearts and souls tarnished? What do we reapfrom these frenzies of unhealthy passion, but contempt for woman, anddisbelief in anything virtuous?

For the Turk there is no such thing as illegitimate love, and woman isthe object of absolute respect. Never having more than one master, shecannot fall in his esteem. Having been bought as a slave, she becomes awife directly she sets foot in the harem; her rights are sacred, and shecannot any more be abandoned. The laws protect her; she has a recognisedposition, a title; her children are legitimate, and if by chance--

I suspend this philosophical digression, in order to inform you of amomentous occurrence. El-Nouzha has just been the scene of a sanguinarydrama. A rebellion has broken out among my sultanas. 

My harem is on strike. 

You will ask me how this storm came to break upon me just as I wassettling down into the most innocent and tranquil frame of mind? It canonly be explained by a retrospective survey of certain domesticcircumstances, which the changes that have been going on at Férouzat hadcaused me to overlook. 

You will not have forgotten the terrible commotion caused in my harem bythe news of my uncle's resurrection. My poor houris, dreading some fataldrama of the usual Turkish character, had indeed passed through a crueltime of distress and anguish. When their alarms were dissipated, arevival of animation soon manifested itself in their spirits; but, asill-luck would have it, and as I have told you, one little detail ofthis day's proceedings, unimportant as it appeared at the time, wasdestined to disturb their harmony, so perfect hitherto, and to arousetheir jealousies. Kondjé-Gul had been to the château, and a sillyambition to attempt the same freak had got into the heads of Nazli andZouhra. I at once expressed a decided opposition to this childishscheme; but, of course, from the moment it met with opposition, itdeveloped into a fixed purpose. 

Within the limited circle of ideas in which they move, theirimaginations had been excited--curiosity, the attractions of forbiddenfruit. The long and the short of it was that, at the sight of theirgenuine disappointment--a disappointment aggravated by continual andjealous suspicions of a preference on my part for Kondjé-Gul--I hadalmost made up my mind to yield for one occasion, when my aunt arrived, which at once put an end to any thought of such good-natured but weakconcessions. 

I imagined myself to be armed now with an overwhelming reason forrefusing their request, but it turned out quite otherwise. When theyheard that my uncle's wife was at the château, they asked to be allowedto make her acquaintance. They said that they were really bound as_cadines_, according to Turkish custom, to pay their respects to myuncle's wife, "whom her position as legitimate spouse placeshierarchically above us. " I got over this difficulty by telling themthat my aunt, being a Christian, was forbidden by her creed to have anyintercourse with Mussulmans. 

What especially distinguishes the Turkish woman, my dear Louis, from thewoman whose character has been fashioned by our own remarkablecivilisation, is the instinctive, inborn respect which she alwayspreserves and observes towards man. Man is the master and the lord, sheis his servant, and she would never dream of setting herself up as hisequal. The Koran on this point has hardly at all modified the biblicaltraditions. Unfortunately for me, I must confess that in my household Ihave disregarded the law of Islam. Inspired by a higher ideal, you willunderstand, without my mentioning it, that my first object has been toabolish slavery from my harem, by inculcating into the minds of myhouris principles more in conformity with the Christianity which Iprofess. I wished, like a modern Prometheus, to kindle the divine sparkin these young and beautiful barbarians, whose minds are still wrappedup in their oriental superstitions. I wished to elevate their souls, tocultivate their minds, and in short, to make them my free companionsand no longer my helots. 

I may assert with pride that I have been partially successful in mytask. Three months of this treatment had hardly elapsed before alltraces of servile subordination had disappeared. With this faculty formetamorphosis existing in them, which all women possess, but which isfor ever denied to us men, and thanks above all to the revelations ofour customs and habits contained in novels of my selection, whichKondjé-Gul read to them during my hours of absence, and to which theylistened with admiration (for they were eager to know all about thisworld of ours, which was as yet unknown to them), I soon obtained acharming combination. Their strange exotic mixture of oriental graces, blending happily with efforts to imitate the refinements of ourcivilisation, their artless tokens of ignorance, their coquettish andfeline instincts, their voluptuous bearing in process of attemptedtransformation into bashful reserve, all these phenomena afforded me themost delightful subject for study ever entered on by a philosopher. 

Nevertheless, I must admit that the education of their intellects didnot keep pace with the cultivation of their ideas, but rendered themstill liable to commit a number of solecisms. I had an interest, moreover, in keeping them in a certain degree of ignorance of the actuallaws of our own world. Imbued with their native ideas, their credulityaccepted without hesitation, everything which I chose to tell them about"the customs of the harems of France, " and they conformed to themwithout making any pretence to further knowledge of them. None the less, there began to grow up in their minds ideas of independence andself-will, the natural consequences of the elevation effected in theirsentiments. The notion of a truer and more tender love was used by themhenceforth as a weapon against my absolute authority. Only too happy tobe treated as a lover rather than a master, I did not feel any loss inthis respect: love is kept alive by these numberless little stratagemsof a woman, who loves and desires--yet desires not--and so forth. Andthen, you must remember, I had four wives. 

They on their part, having no aims, no ambitions, but to please me, thesole object of their common love, each tried to effect my conquest inorder to obtain the advantage over her rivals--an emulation of which Iexperienced all the charms. Notwithstanding the fact that I distributedmy affections with a rare impartiality, I could not always prevent theoccurrence of jealous quarrels among them. Afterwards ensued regretstender reproaches, and clouds of sadness melting into tears. Peace wasrestored amid foolish outbursts of mirth. But you cannot realise what atask it has been for me to preserve the harmony of a well-regulatedhousehold among creatures with their impulsive imaginations, which haveripened under the heat of their native oriental sun. They have mixed uptheir superstitions with those higher principles of which I haveendeavoured to inculcate a notion into their minds, and which they ofteninterpret in quite a different sense. All this has been the occasion forthe display of charming eccentricities. My little animals have growninto women, and along with the development of a more intelligent love, Ihave seen manifestations of a coquettish mutinous spirit, upon theslightest evidence of partiality on my part, which they have thought todetect in me. 

I must tell you that Kondjé-Gul, who is really a very intelligent girl, had begun to study with great ardour, and it naturally followed that shebenefited more from her lessons than the others, who treated them ratheras an amusement. In three months she learnt French tolerably well--sheit was who translated the novels to them. Hence arose a superiority onher side, which must in any case have produced a good deal of envy amongthe others. On the top of this came her famous excursion to the château, concerning which the silly creature gave them marvellous accounts, inorder to pose as favourite. I should add that Kondjé-Gul, being of anextremely jealous nature, often gave way to violent fits of passion. Hadidjé, for some reason or other, more especially excited hersuspicions. Hadidjé has an excitable temperament. Between them, consequently, a considerable coolness arose: this, however, creatednothing worse than a few clouds on my fine sky. For the passivedomesticities of the harem, I had substituted love; for its obedience, the free expansions and impulses of the heart. 

I must add, however, that while rising to purer conceptions of truth, myhouris retained too much of their native instincts not to get theirheads turned somewhat by the novelty of their situation. Having equalrights, they claimed the same rank in my esteem. From this it resultedthat Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhra at last took umbrage at the success ofKondjé-Gul, who was wrong in trying to outstrip them. "Kondjé-Gul, " theyproclaimed, "wishes to act the _savante_. Kondjé-Gul gives herself theairs of a legitimate Sultana. " I must confess that the said littlecoquette was only too careful to impress them with her successes, ofwhich she was rather proud. One evening she sat down to the piano, and, with a careless air, played part of a waltz, which she had learnt on thesly in order to surprise me. You may guess what the effect was. Thistriumph put the finishing touch to their provocation, and the eveningwas spent in sulky murmurs. 

Finally, one day when I arrived at the harem I found Kondjé-Gul shut upin her own room, bathed in tears. The storm which had been impending solong had burst over her proud head--Hadidjé, Zouhra, and Nazli hadbeaten her. 

Once more I appeased their discords, by recourse to a new declaration ofprinciples. The reconciliation was celebrated by a general display ofcordiality; but a faction had been formed within the ranks. At the verytime that I least expected it, Nazli, Hadidjé, and Zouhra returned totheir idea of a secret visit to the château. This project, which so farhad only been carried on by detached skirmishes, was still cherished bythem, and was now pursued by a compact body of troops, combining theirsiege-manoeuvres with a rare concentration of boldness and courage. Their weapons were tender caresses and those innumerable cajoleries ofwomen, which nearly always compel us to surrender in desperation totheir most unreasonable whims. My oriental _ménage_ was still walking ona flowery path, but a snare was hidden under the dead leaves. .. . A fewweeks later, when I was completely entangled in the subtle meshes oftheir cunning, the whole line changed their tactics. They said no moreabout Férouzat, but I soon saw exhibitions on every side of frivolouscaprices, sudden fits of sulkiness, unexpected refusals, and so forth. 

My odalisques had become civilised. 

I was too good a tactician to allow myself to be outflanked by thisartful little game, the concerted object of which I pretended not toperceive. Whenever they fancied they had obtained a success over me, Iimmediately transferred my attentions to Kondjé-Gul, and the attackingparty disbanded, surrendering unconditionally. 

Unfortunately Kondjé-Gul, relying upon my weakness for her, tried tocarry off a decisive victory by a sudden charge. The other evening, having accompanied me up to the secret door, she rushed through it witha laugh, and made off for the château, right through the grounds ofFérouzat. I ran after her and soon caught her, encumbered as she was byher oriental slippers and her long train. I took her back to the harem, where the others seemed to be awaiting, in a great state of excitement, the result of this most audacious attempt. Then I learnt that "she hadboasted she would obtain this fresh triumph over them. " This was aflagrant offence. After such an act of rebellion it was necessary tomake an example: I spoke severely, and there was a tremendous scene. Kondjé-Gul had too much pride to humiliate herself before her rivals, who were rejoicing over her defeat. Distracted with vexation and carriedaway by her foolish impulses, she made the breach between us complete. For three days she remained haughty and arrogant, accepting herdisgrace, but too proud to make any advances for a reconciliation. Needless to say, Nazli, Hadidjé, and Zouhra were more affectionate andattentive to me than ever. 

Such was the condition of affairs when the critical incident took placewhich I undertook to describe to you. 

The other evening, I was in the harem, and Nazli and Zouhra were playingTurkish airs on the zither, while Hadidjé, seated at my feet, with herhead resting upon her hands, which were crossed on my knees, was singingin a low murmur the words of each tune. 

Kondjé-Gul stayed near the verandah, looking cool and dignified, andsmoking a cigarette in the defiant, and at the same time resignedattitude of a hardened rebel; but the furtive glances which she cast atHadidjé gave the lie to her affected calmness. For two evenings past wehad not exchanged a word with each other. She had dressed herself thatday with remarkable care, as if to impress me with the splendours of theparadise I had lost: her glorious hair streamed down in long tresses, somewhat disorderly, from under her pearl-embroidered cap. Notwithstanding a great gauze veil with which she pretended to enshroudherself in order to conceal her charms from my profane eyes, her bodicewas so slightly fastened that it dropped down just low enough to exposeto view the charming little pits under her arms and the snowy-whitenessof her breasts. Like a wrathful Venus, the expression on her face wasboth mutinous and resolute. She had put _kohl_ under her eyes (a thingwhich I forbid), and had blackened and lengthened her eyebrows so thatthey met together, in Turkish fashion. In this get-up the little sinnerlooked ravishing!

Now you can picture to yourself the scene, and guess my state of mind. The weird tones of the zither, with their penetrating and singularlymelancholy vibrations, the strange yet graceful costumes, the scent ofthose flowers with which the daughters of the East always adornthemselves, the all-pervading voluptuous atmosphere the enchantment ofwhich I cannot explain to you; finally, the fair rebel gloomy andjealous, in the corner of the picture! All this, without my being anylonger surprised by it, kept me in a sort of happy contentment, likethat of a well satisfied vizir, which defies all analysis, but which youwill understand. 

All at once the music ceased. 

"André, " said Hadidjé to me, "won't you come into the garden for alittle while?"

"Come along!" I replied, and rose up to go. 

She took my arm. Zouhra and Nazli followed us. As I went out by theverandah, I passed close to Kondjé-Gul; she drew back with a superb airof dignity, as if she feared lest her dress should be ruffled by me. Then darting a look of withering scorn at Hadidjé, she wrapped herselfup in her veil and leant against the balustrade, watching us go off. Itwas a delicious autumn evening, the air was soft and the sky clear andstarry. Under our feet the dry leaves crackled. Hadidjé wanted to have arow in the boat, so we went towards the lake. As we rowed along wecaught glimpses of Kondjé-Gul from time to time, through the openingsbetween the trees; her motionless figure stood out like a solitaryshadow in front of the illuminated window of the drawing-room. 

"That's capital!" said Hadidjé, who was rowing with Nazli; "How dismalshe looks! But then why does she try to get privileges over us? Let usstay here. "

"Oh!" answered Zouhra in an indifferent tone, as she lay back on thecushions, "Not the whole evening, I hope, for it's rather cold. "

"Why didn't you bring your _feridjié_ then, " said Nazli; "you poorsensitive creature?"

"I will go and fetch it if you like, " I said to Zouhra. 

"Oh, no!" she answered quickly; "if you leave us we shall be afraid. "

"Very well then, _I'll_ go, " said Hadidjé, who wanted to carry out herplan. "Let us row to the bank. "

We pulled up to the point nearest to the château, and Hadidjé, notwithout some nervousness after all, left us and ran off. 

"Keep your eye on me all the time, won't you?" she said to me as shepicked up her long skirt. 

Soon we saw her reach the verandah without any adventure. She ascendedthe steps and passed in front of Kondjé-Gul. It seemed to us thatKondjé-Gul spoke very passionately to her, and that she answered her inthe same tones. At last they both had gone in, when all at once we heardpiercing shrieks. Apprehending some skirmishing between my two jealoushouris, I rushed off, followed at a distance by Zouhra and Nazli, whowere frightened at the thought of being left alone. As I entered theharem I found Hadidjé and Kondjé-Gul, with their hair dishevelled andtheir clothes torn, struggling together. Kondjé-Gul was armed with alittle golden dagger, which she wore in her hair, and was strikingHadidjé with it. When she saw me she fled and ran to her room to shutherself in. 

We hastened to the assistance of poor Hadidjé. She had been wounded onthe shoulder, and blood was flowing. Happily the weapon, too harmless towound seriously, had not penetrated the flesh; but, breaking with theblow, it had scratched her rather severely. I soon felt reassured, andquieted her cries, but not without some trouble. 

Mohammed and the servants had run up to the rescue; I sent them allback, and after calming Nazli and Zouhra, I staunched the wound withsome water. In a few minutes, Hadidjé, who had fancied herself murdered, regained her tranquillity of mind, and only complained just enough tokeep alive our interest in her grievance. 

Then I questioned her, and she told us that as soon as she had enteredthe drawing-room, Kondjé-Gul followed her, and giving vent there andthen to an outburst of passion, accused her of being the cause of herdisgrace, reproaching her with hypocritical devices for getting over me. Hadidjé, according to her version of the affair, had only replied withextreme moderation, when Kondjé-Gul, exasperated all of a sudden, rushedat her with her dagger. 

I knew Hadidjé's character too well to place an implicit belief in thewhole of this account; still it was important to put an end to suchescapades. The happiness of my household, which had hitherto been sopeaceful, was endangered if I failed to act like a just but stricthusband. After this outrage committed by Kondjé-Gul, my houris, in theirindignation, insisted upon a signal vengeance, and demanded forthwiththat I should deliver her up to the _cadi_. The _cadi!_ that was comingit strong. I had some difficulty, however, in overcoming theirpersistency; at last they agreed to a less tragic form of punishment, which went no further than the expulsion of this unworthy companion fromthe harem. 

Such escapades might, I feared, get wind outside, and cause a scandal. However much allowance I might make for the tempers of my houris inthese demands for a somewhat summary punishment, I could not concealfrom myself that, taking everything into consideration, it was reallynecessary for me to punish the offence severely, into whateverdifficulties this adventure might lead me. I promised to givesatisfaction to their legitimate indignation. Then, leaving Hadidjé tothe care of Zouhra and Nazli, I proclaimed that I was going at once tosubject the culprit to an examination, after which I should pronouncesentence upon her. 

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CHAPTER VI. 

Kondjé-Gul was shut up in her room; I found her sitting on her bed, which was disarranged, and the pillows of which seemed to have beenrumpled up in a fit of rage and despair; she appeared like onestupified, with her gloomy looks, and hands clasping her knees. Her faceand her neck bore the marks of Hadidjé's nails. The _kohl_ from underher eyes had been smeared on her cheeks, which were smudged all over;she looked just like a little savage, with however the gracefulness of achild. 

She did not stir when I came in; I walked right up to her, and in thesolemn tone of a judge, said--

"Wretched girl, do you know what you have done?"

She remained silent and motionless, fixing her eyes on the carpet. 

"After such an act, will you not answer?" I continued. 

"Why do you love her?" she said at last, in a wild voice. 

"Say, why should I love _you_?" I replied, "when your bad temper andyour jealousy lead you to disobedience, to crime--when you stir upquarrels and discords among us?"

At these reproaches Kondjé-Gul all at once drew herself up erect beforeme, and exclaimed passionately--

"Then you do not love me any longer?"

My questions had not reached their mark. 

"This is not the time for me to answer you, " I said. "I am now askingyou to account for the act which you have just committed. "

"Very well! If you love me no more, I want you to confess it, and I willdie! What have I done to you, that you should prefer Hadidjé to me?Perhaps she is handsomer than I am, is she? If you think me ugly, " sheadded, in a tone of concentrated despair, "tell me straight, and I willgo and cast myself into the lake, and you shall see me no more!"

"But no! I did not say that, " I replied, trying to cut short thisdiversion. 

"Then what are you reproaching me for? Hadidjé loves you better than Ido, perhaps?"

"Neither Hadidjé's sentiments nor mine have anything to do with thequestion. I am asking you about your violence, and the wound you havegiven her with the dagger!"

"Why did she tell me that you love her better than me?" she answered. 

"She told you that?"

"Yes; and pretends that you swore to it. For my part, I do not want tobe loved like a slave. I have learnt from your books that women in yourcountry die when they are no longer loved. So if you have ceased to loveme, I wish to die! You have told me that I have a heart, a soul, and anintellect, as they have, and that a woman's love makes her the equal ofher master. Do you mean to tell me, ungrateful man, that I do not loveyou? Have I ever been jealous of Zouhra, or of Nazli? Why should thisHadidjé be everything in your eyes? If you do not want me any more, " sheadded, in a transport of grief, "say so, then; crop my hair, shave offmy eyebrows, and place me among the servants!"

As she said these words, she threw herself down at my feet, which shehugged in a delirium of passion. Her tears coursed down her cheeks, andupon my hands, which she covered with kisses. In her intense emotion hervoice betokened such bitter distress, that in spite of my determinationto punish her, I felt softened towards her. In presence of thesetransports of a passion, which admitted no other motive but that of herjealous rage, I saw that it was in vain for me to attempt to awaken herconscience to the sense of her guilty conduct. She could neither hearnor feel anything but the echo of her own grief. I loved her no longer, and I loved Hadidjé! These words returned to her lips over and overagain, amid sobs so heart-rending that, overcome by pity, andforgetting my resolution, I could not help uttering a word ofprotestation. I had hardly spoken, when she exclaimed--

"Is that true? Do you really love me? Will you swear it?"

I then understood the imprudence I had committed, but it was too late. Kondjé-Gul, passing at once from affliction to joy, had clasped me inher arms. I wanted to remain stern; but how could I contend by anyarguments with such outbursts of mad jealousy? She would not listen tome: she implored me with all the frenzied entreaties and reproaches ofwhich an unreasoning nature is capable. At one moment I believed that Ihad at last brought her mind to realise the actual situation between us, and the justice of my complaints against her conduct. 

"Well, yes!" she said, "I have been very foolish. I ought to have thrownmyself at your feet three days ago! Ah, if you only knew how wretchedyour coldness made me! Listen: when you came in just now, thinking thatI had lost your love for ever, I was considering how I could killmyself. But you have forgiven me, have you not?--No, no! don't speak tome about _them_!" she continued, sharply, seeing that I was about toanswer. "You know very well that I am no longer like them; you haveformed my heart for a different love to that of the harem. I no longerlove you just as they do. No! As for you, you shall love me just as youplease--as your servant, if such is your will. Imprison me, if you like, as a punishment; all I want is to see you, and to love you. Yes, I waswrong in striking that Hadidjé. You know very well that I am still asavage, for you have often told me so. Well, then, teach me your ownideas, your religion. Tell me what you wish me to be?" she addedfinally, in tones so soft and tender that I was quite overcome by her. 

I was astounded by this language, by this impassioned eloquence which Ihad never suspected in her, and which I now heard from her lips for thefirst time. The butterfly of love had spread out its wings. Psyche wasborn for love! No longer for that passive and vague love which was butthe awakening of the senses and of pleasure, but for that love of theheart which is life itself, with its sorrows, its joys, and itsecstacies. I contemplated it full of surprise, experiencing thefascination of some new enchantment. 

Louis, how can I describe it? Within an hour after I had enteredKondjé-Gul's room; our quarrel, her jealousies, her offence, and thepunishment I had resolved upon, were all forgotten!

Nevertheless, appreciating more completely now the defeat to which I hadsubmitted, I could not fail to perceive the embarrassment which suchstrange conduct would cause me. It would, at any rate, be remarkablyawkward for my wives to learn that the violent scene which had passed, and poor Hadidjé's dagger-wound, had actually become the occasion for areconciliation with Kondjé-Gul. How could I show my face before thevictim to whom it was my duty to grant justice? It was really impossiblefor me to show such contempt for _fas_ and _nefas_ as I should do wereI to reward her assault upon Hadidjé in such an extraordinary fashion asby pardoning her. What in the world would Zouhra and Nazli say? It wouldbe all over with my authority and my reputation. 

At any cost, therefore, it was necessary for me to conceal my veryimprudent weakness until their passions had calmed down, or until someconciliatory advances on the part of Kondjé-Gul to Hadidjé had led tothe forgiveness of this deplorable folly. But directly I attempted toappeal to her reason, Kondjé-Gul, full of pride at having won me back, and even making use of my desertion as a weapon in her hands, would nothear of humiliating herself before a rival. In vain I represented to herthat my own dignity, "the proprieties, " and justice were at stake; sheheld fast to her victory, and would not forego any of its advantages. 

Finally, however, she comprehended the gravity of the situation. 

"Well, do you know what we'll do?" she said; "it will be so nice! Theywill all believe that you have given me a tremendous scolding. And soyou have, for you _were_ cruel when first you came in!"

"I suppose you did not deserve it then?" I answered. 

"Hold your tongue, sir!" she said, putting her finger up to her mouth, and pouting like a little child. "You're going to begin again! Let metell you my plan, which will settle all our difficulties. "

"Let me hear your plan. "

"Very well; you shall tell them that you have been inexorable, and thatyou have treated me as an odious creature. For my part, I shall lookstill more angry with you. Before them, we will scowl at each other, andmake them believe that all is quite at an end between us, and that youhave decided to send me away and have me sold. "

"What a capital idea!" I said to her. 

"Yes, do let us. It will be so delightful, so clandestine! And then Ishall feel that you love me better than them!"

"Because we shall deceive them, I suppose. "

"Yes, yes!" she exclaimed, with a laugh; "because we shall deceive them!Besides, " she added in a tone of conviction, "you must know very wellyourself that there is no other rational course for us. In the firstplace I swear I will never beg the pardon of this miserableHadidjé--never!"

For the present it was clearly necessary to agree to this compromise, which at least provided for the exigencies of decorum. When I leftKondjé-Gul I returned to the château from motives of prudence, in orderto avoid rousing the suspicions of my wives. 

Nevertheless I must admit it was not without some apprehensions that Ireturned the next day to the harem. But I was soon reassured when I sawthe amiable satisfaction which prevailed among my houris. The absence ofKondjé-Gul, who remained in stoic seclusion, left no doubt in theirminds that she was in complete disgrace and would certainly be sentaway. I even gathered that the silly creature had shown Nazli some bluemarks which she had made on her own skin, and told her that I had beatenher! Hadidjé, rather proud of her wound, continued to give herselfinteresting airs as the principal heroine of this terrible tragedy. Asit was in reality merely a scratch, which hurt her very little, her onlyobject in complaining was to emphasize her caprices. After the stormydays we had just gone through, this morning passed like an idyl. Theirspirits were all harmonious; and I left them firmly convinced that fromthe way I performed my great act of justice they had no longer anythingto fear at the hands of a rival. 

Satisfied at this termination of the incident, which had caused me nosmall anxiety, I was returning to the château, when lo and behold! as Iwas passing the bushes, who should appear but Kondjé-Gul, who ran up andthrew herself into my arms. 

"How's this?" I said to her; "you here!"

"Yes, dear; I wanted to see you and kiss you, " she exclaimed, boundingwith joy like a child; "and to hear you tell me that you love me still!"

"You mad creature, suppose anyone were to see you!"

"All right!" she replied; "I jumped down from my window, for they thinkI am a prisoner there. I slipped under the verandah, so as not to benoticed by Mohammed, and came here to wait for you. Now, don't scold me. Now that I have seen you I am going back, for fear I should rouse thesuspicion of your _wives_. Tell me if I'm not clever!"

Then, just as she was running away again, she added in a little tone ofimportance, "And mind _you're_ careful too!"

Eight days have passed since the dramatic events, of which I haverelated to you the singular termination. Here I am involved in a regularconspiracy of deceit; I have a secret intrigue with one of my wives. Kondjé-Gul plays her part of estrangement in a most curious fashion, with an affectation of melancholy, combined with haughtiness, and thesilly creature is delighted with her efforts. After two or three days ofseclusion, she reappeared, talked cynically of her approachingdeparture, and rejoiced over it. We treat each other like spousesdefinitely divorced from each other, who are nevertheless paying eachother, as well-bred people should do, a final tribute of strictpoliteness after the irreparable breach. Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhra, confident in a dominion which appears to them henceforth assured, admiremy great qualities as a dispenser of justice. 

My dear Louis, do you wish me to confess to you the most remarkableconsequence of this business? Yes, of course you do. I promised thatthis psychological study should be conducted with sincerity, and thatnothing should be shirked. Well then, in the course of my analyticalobservations, this mystery with Kondjé-Gul, these tastings of forbiddenfruit, form certainly the most exquisite experience I have met with. Youmay tell me, if you like, that I am a _pandour_, and that my taste hasbeen perverted by a life of unbridled Epicureanism; you may tell me thatthe charms of duplicity, of falsehood, and of this connivance in theguise of a childish deception, are exercising a morbid fascination overmy demoralized heart. You may be right. I would only ask you to expressyourself somewhat less bluntly. At any rate, you will not, I presume, expect me to account for the frailties of our mortal nature. I guesswhat you are thinking--out with it!

Notwithstanding my fine array of principles and the strict vows I madeto myself to distribute my affections equally between my _cadines_, itcertainly looks very much as if I have selected a favourite. Have Ifallen to this extent? I don't know. What is the good, moreover, ofarguing about it? Is it true that undisturbed possession is the rockupon which love splits, and that constraint, on the contrary, acts as aspur to it? Instead of arguing aimlessly about such inconsistencies inhuman nature, it seems to me much simpler to recognise in them, asKondjé-Gul does, a decree of Fate. Can you blame me for sacrificingfutile theories to the higher motives by which I am guided?

The fact is that this necessity for dissimulation, these deceptions, andthese clandestine interviews, have produced between Kondjé-Gul and me asort of spring-tide of delightful expansion of the affections. Youshould see us in the daytime, both of us as stiff as starch in thepresence of the others. You should see the manoeuvres we perform inorder to exchange a sly smile or a shake of the hands out of sight. Youshould see also what pretty little airs of disdain she puts on for herrivals, who are slumbering in their paradise of illusion! If we arealone by chance, she says, "Quick! _your wives_ are not here, " and throws herself into my arms. 

Those words coming from her lips, will reveal to you quite a new orderof sentiments, a strange form of love, which could only spring from theeducation of the harem. Although civilised already at heart, Kondjé-Gulbeing still backward in her ideas and traditional associations, does nottrouble herself about my other wives. She could not conceive of my beingreduced to such a singular state of destitution as that of a poor or amiserly man, who abstains from the luxury of a few odalisques. In hereyes, Hadidjé, Zouhra, and Nazli, form part of my establishment, and ofmy daily routine; while _she_ possesses me in secret. For her sake, I amunfaithful to them, I enter her chamber at night by the window, which Iclimb up to when all are asleep. 

All this, you will tell me, is folly on my part. Ah, my dear fellow, ourpleasure in life is only made up of such trifles, which our imaginationgenerally provides for us. In those secret interviews I discovered inKondjé-Gul, who was certainly endowed with a frank and straightforwardmind, a number of graces which I had never been able to detect beforeduring our intercourse in the harem. Nothing could be stranger or morefascinating than the love of this poor slave-sweetheart, still so humbleand timid, and dazzled as it were by the brilliancy of her dream. Heroriental ideas and the superstitions of her childhood, mingled with thevague notions which she has acquired of our world and of a truer ideal, form within her heart and in her mind a most original collection ofcontrasts. One is reminded of a bird suddenly surprised at feeling herwings, but not yet venturing to launch out into the open. Add to allthese attractions the impulses of a passion, exalted perhaps by solitudeor by satisfaction at her victory over her rivals, and, even if youblame my conduct, you will at least understand the seductions whichprecipitated my fall. 

At Férouzat we have great news: the camels have been discovered! Aletter from Captain Picklock informed us of this. My uncle is quitejubilant; and we have planned a trip to Marseilles to meet them. Anotherpiece of news is that my aunt has undertaken with Doctor Morand, withoutappearing to have a hand in it, a great philanthropic work. I must tellyou that a few years ago the doctor discovered here a hot spring offerruginous water, the effects of which upon the few patients whom hewas able to induce to visit this hole, have been simply marvellous. Whatis wanted now is to establish there some sort of hospital forconvalescents. My aunt at once decided that she, my uncle, and I shouldfind the funds for it. A hundred thousand francs are more thansufficient for the modest foundation which we contemplate. But frommotives of delicacy, and in order to avoid any appearance ofostentation, we arranged with the mayor and the vicar to open asubscription, in order that the enterprise might appear to be supportedby public charity, and that all personal liberality should be concealedby associating the whole district with it. The consequence was thatFérouzat has had a visit from the Prefect of the Department, accompaniedby several members of the General Council, and that, in addition tothis, my aunt has organised a committee of the leading inhabitants ofthe neighbourhood. Of course I am her secretary, and I leave you toguess whether her activity overworks me. I assure you my aunt has in herthe making of a statesman. 

My dear friend, an incident of noteworthy importance, and of quiteexceptional gravity, has just thrown me into the greatest perturbationof mind. 

The other morning my aunt started upon a round of calls on behalf of hergreat enterprise. 

"André, " she said to me, "come with me like a good nephew; I need yourhelp. "

So off we started in the carriage, down the great drive of the château;I thinking that we were going to the doctor's, or else to theCamboulions. When we arrived at the gate, Bernard asked from his box forhis orders. 

"To El-Nouzha, " said my aunt. 

"What!" I exclaimed, "to Mohammed-Azis?"

"Yes, " she replied; "His Excellency's name will look very nice on ourlist. It will be a sort of pledge of our excellent foreign relations. "

"Have you forgotten? A Mahometan!"

"Certainly: an infidel's charity is quite as good in its effects as aChristian's. "

"But he lives a very retired life. Such a visit will take him very muchby surprise. "

"You are intimate with him; you introduce me. Nothing could be morecorrect; that's why I brought you with me. "

In truth nothing could be more correct; I was caught in her trap, andcould say nothing more, for fear of exciting suspicion in her alert andpenetrating mind. I had no doubt in my own mind that my aunt's realobject was to satisfy a curiosity which she had cherished for a longtime past. How could I oppose this tenacious purpose of hers? By whatplausible pretext could I divert her from taking a step so natural, andso cleverly justified? I was caught, and my only hopes rested inMohammed's behaviour, and in his gibberish dialect, which would at leastrender conversation so difficult, that it would be easy for me tointervene. We rolled on in the carriage; my aunt was delighted. Isucceeded pretty well in concealing my apprehensions. After all, thechief danger seemed to be over directly my aunt stopped at the officialentrance of El-Nouzha. The "selamlik, " inhabited by Mohammed, where wewere received, is according to the Turkish custom, entirely separatedfrom the harem, the gardens of which are walled off from it, and hiddenfrom sight. 

In a quarter of an hour we arrived in front of His Excellency's abode. The gate was shut, as it always is. The footman got down and rang, butno one answered the bell. For a moment I had hopes; but at the thirdring of the bell (which my aunt ordered), one of Mohammed's servants, aCerberus stationed on this side of the house, showed himself at thegrating of the inner door. 

"His Excellency Mohammed-Azis is at home, is he not?" shouted my aunt. "Tell him that Monsieur André de Peyrade has called to see him. "

Recognising me in the carriage, Cerberus hesitated. He was actuallygoing to open the gate to let the carriage pass through. I sharplycommanded him to do as my aunt told him. To give Mohammed warning, wasat once to put him on his guard. 

"There is no need for taking the carriage in, " said my aunt; "we willcross the lawn on foot. The lawn is there still, I suppose?"

"Yes, aunt. "

"Well, then, give me your hand to get out, and now forward! If HisExcellency will not receive us, I shall at least have had a glimpse of acorner of the park. What a funny idea it was of the Captain to let himthis place!"

She led me on without any more ado, and we entered. 

"Oh! the sycamores have grown splendidly, " she said. 

At that moment we noticed Mohammed coming down the steps, and walkingtowards us. 

"Ah, His Excellency has not forsaken his old ideas!" said my aunt; "hestill wears the costume of the true believers. As he is coming, let ushurry on, to be polite. "

The danger was impending, nothing could now save me from it. I summonedup all my self-control. When I was a few steps off His Excellency, Islipped away quickly and ran up to him. 

"Be careful, " I said to him in a whisper; "it is my aunt. Keep yourcounsel, and don't let her suspect anything. "

Then I went through the formal introduction, delivering it in the famous_sabir_ which I told you of. Mohammed in the same idiom was fashioning acompliment as profound as it was difficult to understand, when my auntall at once answered him in the purest Turkish. --I felt myself quitelost. 

A minute afterwards we were ensconced in the drawing-room of the"selamlik. " My aunt described the object of her visit. I must tell youthat this rascal Mohammed played his part with the most affable gravityimaginable, albeit somewhat timidly, as if he felt whizzing through theair a shadowy reminder of the stick with which, no doubt, my uncle hadtrained him. I kept my eye on him all the time, and his eye wanderedfrom me to my aunt with a distressed expression. Great drops ofperspiration started from his face. Finally, at a sign from me, hegenerously promised his subscription, and on the whole got through theordeal very well. 

My anxieties being now removed, I was beginning to breathe more fully, when my aunt, just as the interview was coming to a close, expressed tohim, in the most gracefully delicate manner possible, her desire to paya visit to his daughters, whose acquaintance she would be delighted tomake. 

I was stupefied. To have refused the _entrée_ of the harem to a lady ofmy aunt's rank would have been an offence to her; she was too wellacquainted with Mussulman customs for it to be possible to put her offwith any pretext. Mohammed, still maintaining his dignified attitude, replied without any hesitation, by a gesture of delighted acquiescence, and without the least embarrassment got up, saying that he was about toinform them of their good fortune. I felt rather reassured. From themanner in which the old fellow had acted "His Excellency, " it was clearthat this was not the first time he had been called upon to "save thesituation. "

"You would like to follow me, I daresay, " said my aunt with a laugh, assoon as he had left us. 

"Why, of course, " I replied, in a careless enough tone. "Still, if hisdaughters take after him, you will admit that it may be better tocontent myself with my illusions. "

"You dear innocent boy! Why, with a Turk, you never know what toexpect!"

Mohammed came back to tell my aunt that her visit had been announced, and then, preceding her with a dignified bow he opened for her the gatescommunicating with the harem. I remained behind. What would happen?Although the remarkable self possession of my eunuch had set me more atmy ease, it was a critical moment. It was evident that there would begreat excitement among my houris. They would feel at home gossiping withmy aunt, as she spoke Turkish, and they would very likely let outeverything. If one of them mentioned my name only, my aunt would guessit all. 

I waited in a state of suspense such as you can imagine. Finally, afterhalf-an-hour of cruel anxieties, the sound of the closed door in theneighbouring room informed me that I was about to know my fate. My auntcame in, and I did not dare look her in the face. Fortunately I gatheredfrom her first words that I had nothing more to fear; she complimentedMohammed upon his good fortune as the father of such charming daughters, promising often to return to spend a few hours with them, and then atlast we said "Good-bye" to His Excellency. 

On our return, my aunt persisted in her eulogiums upon the young Turkishwomen, chaffing me about my long solitary period of waiting for her, separated only by a few walls from those pretty birds shut up in theirgolden cage. During the whole of luncheon she regaled my uncle with herdescription of these wonderful beauties. He kept looking at me from thecorner of his eye with a furious expression. 

As soon as I could escape, I ran off to El-Nouzha to question Mohammedabout what had happened in the harem. He related the whole scene to mein detail. Nazli, Hadidjé, and Zouhra were alone when he went toprepare them for my aunt's visit. As Koudjé-Gul was reading in her room, she had not been informed of it. At the news of such a great event myhouris screamed with joy. Trained as he had been by my uncle never toforget his part as the father, he had taken care to remind them that, inaccordance with French usage, they must not allow it to be in the leastsuspected that they knew me. They promised to do as he wished them, swearing faithfully to keep all his commands. My aunt was thenintroduced. When they saw her, my houris rose up rather frightened, butshe soon set them at ease with a kind word, and then conversation began. Needless to say, the countess's toilet formed the chief topic ofdiscourse. 

I will not try to depict for you the state of excitement in which Ifound my sultanas, nor the accounts which they had to give me themselvesof this great event. Their sanguine imaginations were already occupiedby the absolute necessity, as they deemed it, of returning my aunt'scall. Her kindness had very naturally charmed them to the point ofbelieving that no obstacle could arise to hinder the continuance offriendly relations so well inaugurated. They went on chattering all theevening about the incidents of this lucky and delightful event, takingparticular pleasure in repeating before Koudjé-Gul who had been absent(and whom they confidently hoped to exclude from their new relations), all the kind things which the pasha's wife had said to them. It wascertainly a splendid revenge upon their rival for that evening escapadewhich she had boasted so much about. 

Poor Kondjé-Gul, disappointed as she was already at having had no sharein this unexpected treat, listened without a word, her sad eyesquestioning me all the time. I reassured her with a nod, letting thesilly creatures prattle away in their glee, and amuse themselves withsanguine projects of such a revolutionary character that it would havebeen impossible to discuss them. 

I began to consider for myself the best way to cut short theseunforeseen complications. Although I was out of danger for the present, the veil which concealed the secrets of El-Nouzha was only supported bya thread. My aunt was not the woman to remain long deceived, and withher quick mind, the slightest imprudent word, the slightest clue, wouldsuffice to arouse her suspicions. I did not even feel sure but what myaunt, impelled by her curiosity, might be only too eager to exchangevisits with His Excellency's daughters, and the very thought of this wasenough to make me tremble. 

The result of my cogitations was a resolve to take decisive measures forputting a stop to such extremely delicate and critical complications asI apprehended. It might, indeed, have been possible for me, whilecarefully mystifying every one, to have continued unabashed my orientalpursuits and avocations under the secure shelter of the walls ofEl-Nouzha. They represented, after all, nothing worse than one of thoseintrigues in the neighbourhood with which my aunt had herself creditedme, but after this visit to the Kasre which had brought her into contactwith my houris, the most ordinary respect for the proprieties requiredme to prevent such conjunctures from recurring. Moreover, our time atFérouzat was drawing to a close, for we were to spend the winter inParis. I therefore determined to anticipate our departure, and to removemy harem immediately. Once lost in the crowd and din of Paris, my secretwould be safe. 

The removal is now settled. A talk with my uncle simplified matters. Asyou may imagine, I had to explain to him the risks entailed by such anoccurrence as my aunt's visit, which might lead her mind to revert tosome incidents in the Captain's past life which had so far remainedunintelligible. Barbassou Pasha did not trouble himself very seriouslyabout it, but he approved of my decision, and, contenting himself with afew growls at me by the way, affectionately proceeded to give me theassistance of his experience. It seems that he has--or rather I have--ahouse at Paris, which was furnished expressly for the use of HisExcellency Mohammed Azis during my uncle's visits there. Orders havealready been sent to have it ready. Then plausible reasons for mydeparture have been invented; some pretended business of importance, which we have been discussing several days past before my aunt, andwhich "might necessitate my presence in Paris. " Truly my uncle'scomposure is wonderful!

As to my houris of El-Nouzha, I need hardly tell you that the comingjourney has been the subject of a most extraordinary enthusiasm on theirpart. The idea of seeing Paris has quite turned their heads, and causedthem to forget their proposed visits to Férouzat. In order to put allconjectures off the scent, Mohammed is going to start to-morrowostensibly for Marseilles, as if he were returning to Turkey. The coolNovember weather having set in, nothing could be more natural than thisreturn to his native land. The end of his journey, however, will be theFaubourg St. Germain, to which he will direct his course by a circuitousroute, and where I shall rejoin him on my arrival at Paris next week. 

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[Illustration]

CHAPTER VII. 

The deed is done! We managed everything without the slightest hitch. Iwrite to you from Paris, from our house in the Rue de Varennes; it seemslike years since I was last there, so many things have happened duringthe six months since I left it. All my surroundings belong to a life sodifferent from my present one, that it requires an exertion of thoughtto identify myself and realise my position here. 

My harem is established in the Rue de Monsieur--in the former "Parc auxCerfs" of my uncle--a splendid mansion, the gardens of which reach tothe Boulevard des Invalides. My uncle has absolutely the genius of anancient Epicurean transferred by accident into our own century. To lookat the street, with its cold and deserted aspect, one might imagineoneself in a corner of aristocratic Versailles. My mystery is safelyhidden away there. Mohammed while at Paris is no longer an exiledMinister, but simply a rich Turk who has acquired a taste for Europeancivilisation. His name is Omer-Rashid-Effendi, a name under which he hasalready passed here twice. 

My houris are astonished with all they see, and their pleasure isindescribable. Of course my first care was to Europeanise theirtoilettes. In pursuance of my orders (for, as you may be sure, I do notappear in such matters) a fashionable dressmaker was sent for byMohammed. What a business it was! The difficulty was to avoid makingthem, with their oriental styles and deportments, look stiff and awkwardwhen confined for the first time in the garb of our civilisedtorture-house. 

By a happy compromise between fashion and fancy, the clever _artiste_has contrived for them costumes which are marvels of good taste andsimplicity. Nothing could be more successful than this metamorphosis;their _coiffures_ complete the picture, and I can hardly recognise myalmées under the bewitching little hats worn by our Parisian women. Iassure you it is a transfiguration replete with surprises and unexpectedcharms. Attired like our women of fashion, their striking and originalbeauty, which was my admiration at El-Nouzha, impresses me in quite anovel manner, which I seem to understand better as I compare them by theside of our own women. Like young foreign ladies of distinction habitedin the costumes of our civilisation, they seem to shed around themwherever they go a sort of exotic fragrance. 

Everything, of course, had to be changed now that they are in Paris;they could no longer follow the routine of their former existence withinthe four walls of the harem. They were now at liberty to go out walking, and take little trips; but here at once appeared a most seriousdifficulty for them to overcome. How could they show themselves in thestreets, the Champs Elysées, or the Bois, without their veils just likeinfidels? That was a serious question! It was impossible for them tomake up their minds to such a shameful breach of Mussulman law; and, ifI must admit it, I myself experienced a strange sort of revulsion at thethought of it. Yes, to this have I come! Nevertheless, on the otherhand, it was quite out of the question for them to shew themselves outof doors enshrouded in their triple veils, attracting wherever they wentthe remarks of the idle crowd. 

At last, after a great many hesitations, Zouhra, who is the bravest ofthem all, ventured to go out with me, buried in the recesses of abrougham, and protected by a very thick kind of mantilla, which afterall was hardly any less impenetrable than a _yashmak_. Then they grewbolder, and impelled by curiosity, their coquetry getting the better oftheir bashful timidity, they took a drive one day in a landau to theBois with Mohammed. I mounted on horseback and met them, withoutappearing to know them. Everything went off as well as could be. 

The carriage which I had purchased is severely simple in style, as issuitable for a foreigner of distinction. In his European disguiseMohammed maintains that expression of serene dignity which soexcellently suits his part of a father escorting his three daughters. There is, in short, nothing about the latter to excite attention. If adark pair of eyes is sometimes distinguishable through the embroideredveils, the fashion, at any rate, permits the features to be sufficientlydisguised to conceal the beauty of my sultanas from over-bold glances. 

Of course poor Kondjé-Gul, still living away from the others, does nottake part in these frolics; but we thus gain some hours of liberty. Onthe second day, while my _wives_ were driving in the Bois, we took ouropportunity of going out, like true lovers, arm in arm; it was mostdelightful!

We went on foot to the Boulevards. You may guess what rapturesKondjé-Gul was in each step we took. It was the first time she had beenout with me alone, the first time she had felt herself free and releasedfrom the imprisonment of the harem. Many an inquisitive fellow, seeingus pass, and struck with her dignified manner, stopped of a sudden, andtried to distinguish her features through the veil. We quietly laughedat his disappointment. 

When we arrived at the Rue de la Paix, we went into some of thewell-known jewellers' shops. At the sight of so many marvels, you mayguess how she was dazzled. She felt as if in a dream. We spoke inTurkish; and the puzzled shop-keepers gazed in astonishment upon thisstrange display of Asiatic charms, which they had evidently met with forthe first time. All this amused us; and it is unnecessary to add that Iquitted these haunts of temptation with a considerably lighter pursethan when I entered them. 

We have already had several of these little sprees, and nothing can bemore fascinating than Kondjé-Gul's childish delight; everything is newto her. Transported, as if by magic, from her monotonous existence atEl-Nouzha into the midst of these splendours, this free life, and thisanimated world, she feels like one walking in a dream; the wholeatmosphere intoxicates her. 

We form plans innumerable. In the first place we have decided that herposition in regard to my wives shall be definitely fixed, and that sheshall live henceforth separated from them in another part of the house, where she shall have private attendants. We shall thus be able to seeeach other without any constraint, and she will no longer be subjectedto the sneers of my silly houris, who have been treating her apparentdisgrace too brutally since our arrival at Paris. My proud Kondjé-Gul, in the consciousness of her ascendency over me, would be sure to make ascene with them some day. 

Besides, as I have already told you, she furnishes me every day with amore and more engrossing subject of study. I should like you tounderstand what sweet and seductive labour this progressive initiationis; I am watching the development of a mind which I am myself forming. There is no subject in regard to her, not even her receptiveintelligence, which fails to afford me innumerable surprises. SometimesI discover original views and opinions of hers upon matters connectedwith our European civilisation, at the correctness of which I amabsolutely amazed. Her progress is surprising, and she wishes to learneverything, knowing how much is required in order to become "civilised, "as she calls it. 

My uncle and my aunt are in Paris. 

A month without any news, you say. And you talk sarcastically about myleisure, and rally me upon the subject of that famous system, which Iused to boast was a simplification of life. If I might judge from yourtwaddle, you imagine me to be saddled with the very cares and worriesfrom which I justly boasted that I was exempt. You picture me runningbackwards and forwards, and incessantly occupied with my four wives, sothat I have not even time to write to you. 

Absurd fancy: this is my real situation. 

As soon as my four wives were settled down in their new home, theypermitted me much more freedom than did the least burdensome of myformer amours. No anxieties now, no jealousies, no fears for the future. They are not like some of those feminine taskmasters who take entirepossession of you, forcing you to follow the adored object to thetheatre, or take it to the ball, in order to have the pleasure ofwatching it flirting bare-shouldered with some intimate friend, who willperhaps be its next lover. No, in my _rôle_ of sultan my amours aremodestly hidden from profane eyes in the recesses of my harem, and thereI am always welcome whenever I choose to come. I keep the key in mypocket. At any hour of the day or night I can go there in my quality ofowner without having to leave my club, my friends, my work, or myamusements a moment earlier than I desire. 

Such, then, is the "anxious existence" which you attribute to me. Findme a husband who can act in the same way. 

Still, as might have been foreseen, great changes have taken place inthe internal arrangements of my household, where it became necessarythat the Turkish elements should be partially replaced by others moreadapted to the exigencies of western civilization. 

A memorable event has occurred. 

Hadidjé, Nazli, and Zouhra went the other day to the opera. It isneedless to say that I was there. I must admit that their nervousnesswas so extreme at making this bold experiment that, watching them frommy own stall as they came in, I thought for a moment that they weregoing to run away again. 

Already in their walks they were getting into training, and in regard totheir veils exhibited a certain amount of coquetry; but now it becamenecessary to disregard the law of Mahomet entirely. They had never seenthe inside of a theatre before, so you can imagine that when they foundthemselves in the box, with their unveiled faces exposed to the gaze ofa multitude of infidel eyes, all the bold resolutions which they hadmade for this decisive effort were put to the rout. Strange as suchMohammedan bashfulness may seem to us, they felt, as they afterwardstold me, that appearing there unveiled, was "just like exhibitingthemselves naked. "

However, as soon as this first impression was overcome, thanks chieflyto the exhortations of Mohammed, who was almost at his wits' ends tomanage them, they succeeded in putting on sufficient assurance todissemble their very sincere dread, so that at a distance it lookedmerely like excessive shyness. The lifting of the curtain for the firstact of "Don Juan" fortunately changed the current of their emotions. During the _entr'acte_ their box became the object of attraction to thesubscribers and the frequenters of first night's performances. Theirindolent, oriental type of beauty, notwithstanding the partial disguiseeffected by their present costumes, could not fail to produce asensation. 

Who, it was asked, was this old gentleman with his three daughters ofsuch surprising beauty? In the Jockey Club's box, where I went to hearthe gossip, everyone was talking about them, as of some importantpolitical event; Mohammed was an American millionaire, according tosome, a Russian prince, or a Rajah just arrived from India, according toothers. When I smiled in a significant manner (as I began to do, onpurpose), they immediately surmised that I fancied I knew more about thematter than the rest of them, thereupon they surrounded me, and pressedme with questions. 

I had already come to the conclusion that it would be better to calmtheir minds, and thus avoid all inconvenient enquiries. I therefore gavethem an account, which after all was not far from the truth, namely, that Omer-Rashid-Effendi was a rich Turk, "whose acquaintance I had thehonour of making at Damascus, and who had come to stay at Paris with hisfamily. " I thus insured myself against any suspicion of mystery arisingin connection with my visits to the house in the Rue de Monsieur, in theevent of these coming to light by any chance. 

Our relations, you will see, were thus defined once for all. This newlife is nothing but a succession of delights to my almées; and I havereally now attained the ideal in the way of harems, through the absenceof that monotony which is the inevitable result of the system of rigidseclusion. Under the influence of our civilized surroundings, the ideasof my houris are undergoing a gradual transformation. They have Frenchlady's maids, and their study of our refinements of fashion has openedout quite a new world of coquettish charms to them. My "little animals"have grown into women: this single word will convey to you the wholedelicious significance of this story of mine, the secret of which youalone in the whole world possess. 

As we had decided, Kondjé-Gul has been separated from her over-jealouscompanions. Hadidjé, Zouhra, and Nazli have taken this measure to be aconfirmation of her disgrace, and knowing that she lives in asequestered corner of the house, they fancy their triumph more assumedthan ever. I can place implicit confidence in the discretion of myservants--who wait on us like mutes in a seraglio: consequentlyKondjé-Gul and I are as free as possible. When I want to go out withher, I pay a short visit to my wives, and after a quarter of an hour'stalk, leave them and go off in my carriage, in the recesses of which mydarling reclines. Now you see what a simple device it is and howingenious; still it involves a certain amount of constraint for me, andan isolation hard to endure for Kondjé-Gul. She reads and devourseverything that I bring her in the way of books; but the days are long, and Mohammed, with his time taken up by the others, cannot accompany herout of doors. I therefore conceived the idea of taking her away from theharem altogether, and thus relieving her of the contemptuous insultswhich my other silly women still find opportunities of inflicting uponher. The difficulty was to procure a chaperon for her, some kind ofsuitable and reliable duenna whom I could leave with her in a separateestablishment; this duenna has been found. 

The other day Kondjé-Gul and I were talking together about a littlehouse which I had discovered in the upper part of the Champs Elysées, and of an English governess, who seemed to me to possess the rightqualifications for a pretended mother:

"If you like, " said Kondjé-Gul, "I can tell you a much simplerarrangement. "

"Well?" I replied. 

"Instead of this governess whom I don't know, I would much rather havemy mother. I should be so happy at seeing her again!"

"Your mother?" I exclaimed with surprise; "do you know where she isthen?"

"Oh, yes! for I often write to her. "

She then told me all her past history, which I had never before thoughtof asking her, believing that she had been left alone in the world. Itafforded me a complete revelation of those Turkish customs which seem sostrange to us. Kondjé-Gul's mother, as I have told you, was aCircassian, who came to Constantinople to enter the service of a cadineof the Sultan. Kondjé-Gul being a very pretty child, her mother had, inher ambitious fancy, anticipated from her beauty a brilliant career forher. In order to realise this expectation, she left her at twelve yearsold with a family who were instructed to bring her up better than shecould have done herself, until Kondjé-Gul was old enough to be soughtafter as a cadine or a wife. 

This hope on the part of her mother was accomplished, as you know, forthe girl was purchased for a good round sum by Mohammed. Thus poorKondjé-Gul fulfilled her destiny. Then she related to me how her mother, several years ago, had found a better situation for herself with aFrench consul at Smyrna, and had learnt French there. 

Kondjé-Gul's idea was a happy one, and I was inclined to entertain it. Iconsented to her writing to Smyrna, and some days later she received ananswer to the effect that in about a couple of months her mother wouldbe able to join her providing the requisite means were sent her for thispurpose. I have a house in view where they can live together. It is alittle house belonging to Count de Téral, who is on his way back toLisbon: one might really fancy he had got it ready on purpose for me. 

What have you to say to this, you profound moralist?

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CHAPTER VIII. 

Again you complain of my silence, in a letter written with the object ofoverwhelming me with abuse; and you mix up sarcasms (through which yourchildish curiosity is very transparent) with philosophical remarks whichreveal the snobbishness of your nature. In fact, from the tone of yourletters, one might imagine I was threatened by strange complications, and that you were hoping every morning to read the account of somecatastrophe. For once in a way your longing for an important event willnot be disappointed, for I have a weighty piece of news for you. As itbelongs to the most strictly moral order of events, you may listenwithout any anxiety. 

As you are aware, my aunt and uncle came to Paris a fortnight ago, andwill stay here all the winter. The house in the Rue de Varennes hasresumed its gay honours; we give receptions, dinners, and everythingelse that you are familiar with, but embellished this time by thepresence of the charming Countess of Monteclaro, who supplies thatlively element of family life which we rather missed formerly. My aunthas discovered here a young cousin of hers, Count Daniel Kiusko, acapital fellow, whom I have quite made friends with. 

Having given you these details, I will now proceed with my story. 

The other morning, after breakfast, as I was about to return to my room(for whatever you may believe, I am working hard just now), my unclestopped me, and without any further preliminaries began:

"By the way, André, I expect Madame Saulnier and my god-daughter AnnaCampbell, your betrothed, to dinner this, evening. I should not mindletting you make her acquaintance. If you happen to be curious to seeher, don't make any engagements at the club, and come home punctually. "

"Really!" exclaimed my aunt with a laugh, and without giving me time toanswer: "from the way you put it, one might think you were talking ofsome doll that you intended to offer André for his birthday!"

"What the deuce do you mean by that, my dear?" asked the captain in hisimperturbable way. 

"I mean, " said my aunt, "that this little acquaintance which you wishthey should make with each other before you marry them, seems to me avery necessary preliminary. "

"Pooh! They've still a good year before them! Besides, this littlematter has nothing to do with romance. " Then turning to me he continued;"Well, if that suits you for to-day, I have given you notice. "

"Capital!" added my aunt. "Well, André! How does it suit you?"

"Why, aunt, " I said, laughing in my turn at their little dispute; "Ithink my uncle may rely equally with you upon the pleasure it will giveme. "

"All right, that's settled!" continued my aunt in an inimitable tone ofhilarity; "at seven o'clock punctually, my dear nephew, you will comeand fall in love. "

My uncle took no more notice of this last ironical shaft than of therest, but occupied himself with selecting a cigar, remarking that whathe had were too dry. My aunt availed herself of the opportunity ofcontinuing her conversation with me. 

"Between you and me, " she said, "I may tell you that you are not much tobe pitied, for she is a charming girl, and you would really lose a gooddeal by not making her acquaintance. "

"I was only waiting for my uncle to decide the question. "

"You must at any rate be grateful to him for letting you meet _bychance_ before your wedding-day, " she continued. 

"Oh, dear! one might think I wanted to marry them at a minute's notice!"said my uncle at these words. "Just like a woman's exaggerations!Perhaps you would have liked me to have introduced her to him before mylast voyage, when she was a lass of fourteen, thin, awkward, andgawkish, as you all are at that age. "

"Thanks; why don't you say monkeys while you are about it?" replied myaunt with a curtsey. 

But my uncle intended to make a speech of it, and continued:

"Who would have left in his mind the disagreeable recollection of asmall, flat, angular creature, with arms like flutes, and hands and feetas long as that!"

"Poor little creature! I shudder at the thought of it! However, in yourineffable wisdom, you have fattened her up with mystery. "

"Ta, ta, ta!" continued my uncle; "I have made a fine, healthy, solidyoung woman of her, who promises to make just the right sort of wife forAndré! And I maintain, in spite of your ideas on the subject, that Ihave done well to bring them up at a distance from each other, in orderto preserve the freshness of their feelings, and avoid the necessity ofthat awkward and painful transformation of the affections which is sodifficult for a couple who have grown up together and eaten their breadand butter together as brats in the nursery. To-day they will find eachother just as they ought to before they become husband and wife. All therest of the business must be left to them. If they like each other verymuch they will make a love-match, if not, a _mariage de raison_, whichis just as good. "

My uncle having concluded thus, it only remained for me to signify mycompliance with his wishes. As you may well understand, I awaited withimpatience the hour for this first interview, and I was in thedrawing-room that evening some time before my _fiancée's_ arrival. Myaunt was in the heaven of delight, just like every woman looking forwardto a romantic incident, and she did not fail to remark my eagerness. Asto the captain, like a being superior to such sentimental trifles, hewas quietly reading his paper. He was just commencing a politicaldiscussion when the servant opened the folding doors and announced:

"Madame Saulnier and Mademoiselle Campbell. "

To tell the truth, I must admit that I felt somewhat nervous. A lady ofabout forty years old came in, accompanied by a young person in aregulation convent dress. I stood up, while my uncle went forward tomeet his _god-daughter_, and kissed her affectionately on the forehead. Then he led me to her by the hand, in a dignified and ceremoniousmanner, and said without more ado:

"Anna, this is André! André, this is Anna! Kiss each other!"

This form of introduction, with its laconic precision, had at least theadvantage that it left no uncertainty between us, and at once indicatedto us our proper course of procedure. Too well trained to my uncle'shabits, I did not hesitate a moment, but kissed my betrothed; afterwhich I said, "How do you do?" which, of course, gave me a niceopportunity of looking at her. 

Anna Campbell is at the present time just seventeen. She is neithershort nor tall, thin nor stout--although the great blue ribbon which shewears over her neck, with a cross suspended from it, already sets offthe plump outlines of her bosom. She is neither fair nor dark; her chinis round, her face oval, her nose, mouth, and forehead are allmedium-sized, and she has rather pretty blue eyes. Generally speaking, she is more pleasant-looking than handsome, and her features on thewhole suggest a very gentle disposition united with good health. Myuncle took care to impress upon me that she will continue to develop, since her feet and hands are still large for her age, and promise ahandsome completion of her growth. 

In short, my lot is far from a disagreeable one--quite the contrary. Asmy uncle expresses it, "All the symptoms are good. "

Our dinner was a very lively one. Anna Campbell, although rather subduedin my presence, did not show any embarrassment. Nothing seemed to be newto her; her manners and deportment, and everything about her, revealedthe familiar assurance of a child of the family who had come to take aholiday there, and felt herself as much at home as I did. I perceivedthat she knew the house as well as if she had been brought up in it, andI learnt that during the time when I was at college she and MadameSaulnier had really lived there for three years. 

The result of all this was that Anna Campbell exhibited a pleasant sortof familiarity with my aunt and uncle which I did not at all expect tosee. Brought up away from each other, and without any previousacquaintance, we were now meeting for the first time at this commoncentre of our affections, which, unknown to us, had united us since ourchildhood. This was both original and sweet to think of. 

Once, when my uncle asked for the pickles, Anna said:

"They are near André. "

When the meal was over we left the dining-room. Following a Russianfashion which my aunt had introduced among us, when we entered thedrawing-room, I pressed her hand to my lips, while she kissed me on theforehead. Anna did the same; then, without even appearing to think whatshe was doing, she quietly held up her two cheeks for me to kiss, andafterwards offered them to her godfather. She then ran to the piano, andsat down to it, while we were taking our coffee. 

"Well, what do you think of her?" my uncle asked me. 

"She is very nice, " I replied. 

"Yes, isn't she? Just the thing for you, my boy, " he observed, as hestirred his cup, with the tranquillity of a pure conscience. "Go andtalk with her, " he continued; "you will find she is not stupid. "

I went to sit down by Anna. 

"Come, play the bass!" she said, moving aside to make room for me, as ifwe had often played in duet together before. 

When the piece was finished, we talked about her convent, her friends, and the Mother Superior, Sainte Lucie, whom she was much attached to;and she spoke about everything in a confident tone of familiarity, whichshowed me that she had often talked of me, and had been used to think ofme as an absent brother. The understanding is that, on account of heryouth, our betrothal is to remain a family secret, which will only bemade public when the right time arrives. 

The evening concluded without any other special incident. At ten o'clockAnna went home to her convent. As she was putting her things on, sheheld out her hand to me, and said:

"Good-bye, André!"

"Good-bye, Anna!" I replied; and then my uncle took me away with him tothe club, where he sat down to his party at whist. 

While I am on the subject of my uncle, I must tell you about anadventure which he has just had. He is _dead_, as you are aware, for Ihave inherited his property. This privilege he will not give up, _because the registration fees have been paid_. The result of thispeculiar situation is that he is under certain legal incapacities, which, without troubling him more seriously, do nevertheless cause himsome annoyance. Three months ago at Férouzat, he had to renew hisgun-license, which he had taken out seven years before; but as hisdecease had been formally entered at the prefecture, they would notaccept this document, bearing the signature of a defunct person. As youmay imagine, he did very well without it, and began to shoot as ifnothing had happened!

The other morning, however, it chanced, as my uncle was passing ourbanker's, that he wanted to draw twenty thousand francs for hispocket-money. The cashier, who had known him years ago, was very muchsurprised to see him in the flesh, but represented to him that it wasnow quite impossible for him to open an account in his name, as he waslegally dead and buried. My uncle, like a law-abiding man, admitted thejustice of this observation, and I had to intervene in order to arrangethe matter for him. He took no further notice of it; only as he neverdoes anything by halves, he had his visiting cards printed with "Thelate Barbassou" on them; and this was the way he signed himself at ourbanker's, by which means he pretended that he conformed with allrequirements. 

"You see how simple the whole thing is, " he said to me. 

My amours with Kondjé-Gul have certainly taken a very remarkable turn. The other day I took her to Versailles for an educational and historicalexcursion; she is continuing her course of civilization, you know. Aftervisiting the palace and the museum, we went into the park. She was inthe best of spirits, still excited with the fresh air and freedom whichshe was enjoying like an escaped prisoner from the harem, and was askingme questions about everything with that charming simplicity of herswhich delights me so much, when we arrived in front of Diana's Bath, where we found a group of three young women most brilliantly dressed, two of whom, as I saw at the first glance, were old acquaintances ofmine, very well known in the gay world. Young Lord B---- accompaniedthem, and they all recognised me; but Lord B----, with the well-bredtact of a man of the world, seeing the company I was in, only noddedslightly to me. With like discretion, as is usual on such occasions, thewomen made no movement of recognition; yet they could not help--beingstruck no doubt with the remarkable beauty of my companion--evincingsuch evident curiosity, that Kondjé-Gul observed it. I, of course, passed without appearing to notice them. Kondjé-Gul and I then took aturn up the walk, while I expounded the mythology of the bath to her, and then we went out. 

"Who are those ladies?" she asked me as soon as we were at a gooddistance from them; "they know you, I could see. "

"Oh, yes, " I replied in an indifferent tone, "I have met them severaltimes. "

"And the young man who was with them also looked at you as if he was oneof your friends; why did not you speak to him?"

"For discretion's sake, because you were with me, and he was walkingwith _them_. "

"Ah! I understand, " she said; "no doubt they are the women of hisharem?"

"Just so, " I answered quite coolly, "and, as I have often told you, according to our customs, the harem is always----"

I was trying to think of the right word, when she burst out laughingquite loud. 

"What are you laughing at, you silly thing?" I asked. 

"I am laughing at all those stories about your harems which you stillmake up for me just as you used to do for that idiot Hadidjé. I listento them all, because, --whatever does it matter to me now that I loveyou! I prefer the happiness of remaining your slave to that of thesewomen, who have no doubt been your mistresses, and whom you don't evencondescend to notice when you meet them. "

"What?" I exclaimed in astonishment; "have you got to know so muchalready, you little humbug, and have concealed it from me?"

"After all you have given me to read to form my mind according to yourideas, surely it was natural that I should some day discover the truth!I only waited for an opportunity of confirming my new knowledge, " shecontinued with a smile. "There are still a lot of things in your countrywhich I cannot understand. But you will teach me them now, won't you?"she added in a coaxing tone. 

"Oh, you young flirt! It seems to me you know everything already!"

"Why, yes, I feel I know that, for all you may say, I am still no morethan a curious toy in your eyes--a strange creature, like some rare birdthat you are rather fond of, perhaps, for her pretty plumage. "

"Ah! you're right upon the last point at any rate!" I replied with alaugh. 

"Yes, sir!" she continued in a satisfied tone of pride, "I know that Iam handsome!--Now don't laugh at me, " she added with a charmingreproachful look; "what I have to say is quite serious, for it comesfrom my heart. I was born for a different life, for different sentimentsto yours, and I know that I possess none of those qualities which theysay make the women of your country so attractive. Their ideas andassociations are very different to mine, which you call thesuperstitions of a young barbarian, and which I want to forget in orderto learn to understand you and to have no rivals. "

"Are you quite sure that you would not lose by the change?"

"Thank you, " said Kondjé-Gul; "that's what I call a compliment. "

"The fact is, " I replied, "the very thing I like about you is that youdo not in any way resemble the women whom we have just met. "

"Oh!" she said, with an indescribable gesture of pride, "it's not_those_ women I envy! But I see others whom I would like to resemble--intheir manners and tone, of course. If you're a nice fellow, do you knowwhat you will do for me?"

"What?"

"It's a dream, a scheme which I have been continually thinking over. Youwon't laugh at me, will you?"

"No. Let's hear your grand scheme. "

"Well, then, if you would like to make me very happy, place me for a fewmonths in one of those convents where your young ladies are educated. You would come and see me every day, so that I should not be too dullaway from you. "

"That's the queerest idea I have ever heard from you; fancy a Mahommedangirl at a convent!" I said, with a laugh. 

I took a great deal of trouble in explaining to her what a foolishproject this was; but the result of my attempts at demonstrating theserious obstacles which such ambitious aspirations would encounter, wasthat in the end I myself entered into her views. The experiment mightindeed prove a most instructive one. With Kondjé-Gul's character, therewas an extremely interesting psychological experiment before me. I hadfound her to be endowed with marvellous natural qualities. With herardour and enthusiasm, what would be the effect upon her simpleimagination of a sudden transition from the ideas of the harem to thesubtle refinements of our own society?

Certainly, I was obliged to admit that such a trial was not without itsdangers; but then, was not Kondjé-Gul already aware that the maritalyoke which my houris still believed in was only imaginary? And was itnot better, such being the case, for me to complete this work ofregeneration, the fruits of which I should in the end reap for myself?

So I submitted to Kondjé-Gul's wishes, and as soon as we returned toParis this important matter was settled. 

The next day I began to look for the means of carrying it intoexecution, a search which was attended, however, with a good manydifficulties. 

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER IX. 

My uncle is going to send for another of my aunts to come to Paris. 

Well! what of that?--My uncle is a Mussulman, you know; and, being a manof principle, his duties are more onerous than yours, that's all!

My services were required to take a little house at Passy, where she isto live. I wonder whether it is my aunt Gretchen, my aunt Euphrosine, ormy aunt Cora? He has not given me the slightest hint on this point. 

While awaiting this addition to our family, Barbassou-Pasha pursues hiseccentric career in a manner that beats description. This visit to Parishas brought out more than ever the quaint independence of hischaracter. One is reminded of a man who stands on a bridge watching theriver flow by, but now and then takes a header into it to cool himself. The other day at the club, he lost sixty-three thousand francs to me atbaccarat, just for a little distraction. The evening after, he wasentertaining at our house his late Lieutenant Rabassu, whom he alwaysspeaks of as "the cause of his death, " and who has come here upon somebusiness. He won eleven francs from him at piquet, playing for a francthe hundred points. For the moment I felt quite alarmed for the poorvictim! But my mind was soon set at ease; for Rabassu, who is used tohis captain's play, knows how to cheat as cleverly as his master. Theirlosses soon balanced each other. 

Putting aside little dissipations of this kind, I should add that "thelate Barbassou" is really very steady-going for a man of histemperament. He takes everything which comes in the routine of ourfashionable life so naturally, that nobody would imagine he had spentseveral years at the hulks in Turkey. 

My aunt Eudoxia, of whom he stands in wholesome awe, and who keeps himin check, forces him to cultivate the vanities of this world. He escortsher to balls and fêtes with all that ceremony with which you arefamiliar; and quitting the lofty regions of his own philosophicalexistence, without however permitting anything to disturb hisself-possession, he goes forth into the gay and hurried throngs of Pariswith as little concern as he would into any village street. In short, heis in exquisite form, and--but for the legal disabilities which deprivehim of his rights of citizenship--you would find him still exactly whathe was when you knew him five years ago. 

However, the other day he received a little shock in connection with avery simple incident, which might have been perfectly anticipated. 

We were in my aunt's box at the Opera. The pasha, seated by her side, was listening to a singer who was rather more buxom than elegant; and heappeared to be calculating what her nett weight would be, after makingdeduction for her queen's crown and robes of state. After a minute orso, he seemed to have solved this equation and lost all further interestin the problem, for he began to examine the audience. All of a sudden heshouted out, quite forgetting himself, in his Provençal brogue:

"_Té!_ What's that I see?"

"Hush!" said my aunt, nudging him with her elbow, without turning round. 

"But, _bagasse!_ it's Mohammed!" he added, in a lower tone. 

It was indeed Mohammed, who attracted some attention as he walked withmy houris into their famous box. 

"Well, you're right, " replied my aunt. "I recognise his charmingdaughters. "

You may be sure my uncle put up his glasses. When all my people weresettled down in their box, he surveyed them carefully, interrupting hisexamination occasionally in order to take a furtive scowl at me. But myaunt's presence kept him quiet. His composure was perfect for thatmatter, except that he seemed extremely puzzled. There were only threeof them--that evidently was not the right number for him. As for me, prudence dictated that I should get out of the way as quickly aspossible, leaving him to make what observations he pleased. 

As I was slipping away quietly to the back of the box, I heard my auntsaying:

"Are you going to speak to him?"

"No; we have had a quarrel!" he growled, looking again for me at hisside. 

But slam went the door, and I was out in the passage, whence I escapedto the back of the scenes and to the green-room. There he joined meduring the _entr'acte_. But, as you are aware, "Turks do not discussharem matters. " All I could see clearly was that he was in a fury withme. 

To turn, however, to other things, my perseverance on behalf ofKondjé-Gul is at last rewarded with complete success. 

After I had spent a whole week in looking about, I found, in the Beaujoudistrict, an institution for young ladies presided over by a MadameMontier, a kind woman of polished manners. She had suffered a reverse offortune, which seems to have prepared her for the express purpose ofcivilizing my Kondjé-Gul. There are never more than three or fourboarders in the house: at the present moment two American girls, daughters of a commodore who is on a mission to the King of Siam, arefinishing their education there. Nothing could suit my purpose better. 

When the time arrived, however, for putting my plan into execution, Imust confess that I could not help feeling considerable embarrassment. Icould certainly have introduced Kondjé-Gul as a young foreign lady, prematurely widowed, who was anxious to qualify herself for Frenchsociety; but I soon found that this would create an unnecessarycomplication. Decidedly the better course would be for Mahommed tointroduce her either as his ward or his daughter. Under anycircumstances it was desirable that I should explain to her thenecessity of extreme prudence. 

At last, one evening, when I thought she was about to revert to thisgreat object of her ambition, I started the subject myself. 

"I am going to announce an important piece of news, " I said to her; "Ihave found a convent for you where you can stay pending your mother'sarrival. "

"Really!" she exclaimed, kissing me. "Oh, my dear André, how kind youare!"

"Yes; but I must warn you. This realisation of your dream is onlypossible at the cost of sacrifices, which will perhaps be hard for youto make. "

"What sacrifices? Tell me, quick!"

"First, assiduous work, and next, the sacrifice of your liberty; forduring the whole time you remain at this establishment, you won't beable to leave the place. "

"What does that matter?" she exclaimed, "provided I can see you everyday!"

"But that's exactly what will be impossible. "

"Why?" she asked, in her simplicity. 

"Because, according to our customs, bachelors are never admitted intoyoung ladies' schools, " I replied, with a laugh. 

"But as I belong to you, " she continued, with an astonished look, "theywill not be surprised at your coming; are not you my master?"

"This reason, my dear, although a convincing one for you, wouldconstitute the greatest obstacle; for they must not be allowed on anyaccount to suspect that you are my wife. Mohammed alone will introduceyou either as his daughter or as a young lady under his charge, and, forconventional reasons, which you will understand later on, this period ofstudy will be a period of separation for us. "

I then let her know the whole truth about certain of our socialconventionalities, concerning which she was still in ignorance. When shelearned that our laws declared her free, and the equal of anyFrenchwoman, and that I had no longer any rights over her, she lookedinexpressibly pained. 

"Good heavens!" she exclaimed, throwing herself into my arms, "what doyou mean? Am I free, and my own mistress, and not yours for ever?"

"You are mine, because I love you, " I said to her very quickly, seeingher agitation; "and so long as you do not _want_ to leave me--"

"Leave you! But what would become of me, then, without you?"

And her eyes filled with tears. 

"What a foolish girl you are!" I replied, quite touched at her evidentpain; "you are exaggerating the significance of my words: your libertywill make no difference in our relations. "

"Why did you tell me this cruel truth, then? I was so happy in thebelief that I was your slave, and in obeying and loving you at the sametime. "

"Still it was necessary for me to tell you, as you wish to learn ourideas and customs. Your ignorance was a source of danger, for even yourquestions might lead to the betrayal of relations which must remain amystery for the rest of the world, and, above all, in the 'pension, 'where you are about to live with companions. "

I had some difficulty in consoling her for this terrible discovery thatour laws do not recognise slavery. Nevertheless, her desire for furtherinstruction remained very keen. 

Finally, two days afterwards, Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul entered MadameMontier's institution, having been presented by her guardian, the worthyOmer-Rashid-Effendi, who made all the necessary arrangements with themajestic dignity which he displays on every occasion. 

Although I have kept myself carefully in the background in all thismatter, I watch its progress just the same, and superintend everything. Every evening Kondjé-Gul writes to her guardian, and I get her lettersat once: I can assure you they constitute quite an interesting romance. For a whole week Kondjé-Gul, who had been rather overawed at first andastonished at all her new surroundings, seemed to live like one dazed. She would not trust herself to speak, fearing to appear uncultivated;but she observed, and the results of her observations were most curious. After that I perceived that she was gradually trying her wings; for whenshe had been initiated a few days into her new life, she soon abandonedher reserve, and has by this time passed the first step in heremancipation. Her simplicity of character, and her quaint Orientalmanners, have secured her some very cordial friendships; and nothing canbe more charming than the accounts she gives me of her devotion for herfriends, Maud and Suzannah Montague, who are the realisation ofperfection in her eyes. 

Of course Kondjé-Gul's educational programme, as fixed by me, isconfined within very modest limits. It consists of music, history, and aslight and general acquaintance with literature. But above all she isexpected to acquire that indispensable familiarity with our ideas, andthose feminine graces and refinements which can only be learnt bycontact with women and girls brought up in good society. A few months atMadame Montier's will be sufficient for this purpose, and thecultivation of her mind can be completed later on by private lessons. 

My harem in the Faubourg St. Germain retains its Oriental aspect; it isa corner of the world described in the "Arabian Nights, " where I indulgefrom time to time, in the midst of Paris, in the distractions of avizier of Samarcand or Bagdad. There, when the shutters are closed, inmy _gynæceum_ (or women's apartment), illuminated by lamps which shed asoft lustre upon us, while the bluish-grey smoke from my narguiléperfumes the atmosphere, my houris lull me to sleep to the music oftheir taraboucks. 

With all this I am not quite so satisfied, as I would have liked todescribe myself, with certain incidents which have occurred inconnection with my harem. Certainly, they are all the naturalconsequences of our life in Paris; for I don't suppose you imagine thatI had not foreseen the psychological effect which entirely new ideaswould unavoidably produce upon the profoundly ignorant minds of myhouris. Besides, a progressive and judicious emancipation from theirprevious restraints formed part of my programme for them. But theintroduction into the harem of certain high-class lady's-maids, indispensable for initiating my little animals into the subtle mysteriesof Parisian toilets, has of necessity led to their making a number ofdiscoveries, which have contributed in a remarkable degree to theircivilization:--hardly, however, in those elements which I could havemost desired. They have all of them got to know a great deal more thanwas necessary for them about those famous "customs of our harems inFrance, " the principles of which I had endeavoured to teach them. Thus Ieven noticed the other day that I set Zouhra and Nazli laughing when Ireminded them of some point of etiquette. Although they are still imbuedwith the good principles of their native education, it is evident theyare being corrupted by the poison of Liberalism. This I am convinced ofby certain airs of assurance which they have put on, by theircoquetries, and by novel and unexpected caprices which they now display. 

The "Rights of Woman" have clearly been divulged to them. They talk ofwalking out by themselves, of visiting the popular theatres andmusic-halls, and even Mabille, the illuminations of which struck theirfancy very much the other night, as we were passing the Avenue Montaignein the carriage, on our way back from the Bois. One little instance willillustrate the situation for you. Mohammed's rank and titles have ceasedto impress them with any respect; and the day before yesterday Zouhraactually had the impudence to say "Chut!" to him. 

This expression will clearly indicate to you an astonishing progress inthe refinements of our language; but it will also, no doubt, afford youa text upon which to declaim in that cruelly sarcastic style which yourPhilistine genius revels in. I will, therefore, anticipate you byreplying:

In the first place, that Mohammed does not understand French--a factwhich considerably diminishes the gravity of Zouhra's disrespect;

In the second, that I never doubted but what their stay in Paris wouldopen my houris' minds to new ideas;

And in the third, that neither did I doubt but what they would acquire, in consequence, more precise notions upon the extent of their rights. 

Woman, like any other animal susceptible of education, possesses themost subtle faculties of imitation. Now if, her weak nature beingovercome by those impulses towards mischief and malice with which she ispeculiarly endowed, she is tempted to commit trivial derelictions ofconduct--derelictions which, after all, are but faults ofdiscernment--is there any reason why we should make such a fuss aboutit?

In the midst of the supremely refined existence which my sultanas lead, I seem to discover in these innocent little vagaries a frank simplicityof character, more nearly related to purity of conscience than are theaccomplished manners of our most polished coquettes. 

While on this subject I must reply to the sarcasms contained in yourlast letter. 

Let me tell you first of all that I have never laid claim to thecharacter of a superior being inaccessible to human vanities, as you aretrying to make out. I am quite willing to admit with you that I, likeany other man, am possessed by "the stupid satisfaction which every manexperiences in watching the success of the woman he loves. " It is quitepossible that the effect produced by my odalisques upon the idle crowd(or as you term it _la haute badauderie_) of Paris, has suddenlyinvested them with new charms in my eyes. You say that the mystery withwhich they are enshrouded, and the silly conjectures which I hear peoplemake about them as they pass by, have excited me and turned my head likethat of a simpleton. 

Well, I suppose you will hardly expect me to account for the humanweakness which leads us to measure our own happiness by the degree ofenvy which it excites in others? Besides, what is the good of siftingmy passion or testing my love in a crucible in order to estimate itsvalue?

In the midst of my pagan indulgences, you ask me if I really love, inthe usual sense of that word. This very reasonable question was at anyrate worth asking, however simple it may seem. It is concerned with thegreat problem in psychology which I undertook to solve, namely, as towhich predominates in love, the heart or the senses, and whether truelove is possible when one loves four women at the same time?

It is clear that in the restricted limits of our ideas, and under theyoke of our customs and prejudices, we can only conceive of passion asconcentrated upon a single object. Too far removed from our primitiveorigin and from the patriarchal age, and moulded by the influences ofmore refined customs, our minds have been stimulated to thecontemplation of a certain recognized ideal. Still, as moralists andphilosophers, we must admit that among Orientals there is, doubtless, another conception and another ideal of love, the character of which wecannot grasp. It is only by divesting ourselves of our moral clogs, orthe restraints of our social conventionalities, that we can attain tothe understanding of this lofty psychological problem. Indeed, no onehas ever been able to say what love consists in. "Attraction of twohearts, " say some, and "mutual exchange of fancies;" but these arenothing but words depending upon the particular instance in which theyare employed. 

The truth is that we are full of inconsistencies in all ourdefinitions. From a purely sentimental point of view, we start by layingdown, as an absolute axiom, that the human heart can only embrace oneobject of love, and that man can only fall truly in love once in hislife. Yet if we abstract from love the distinct element which our sensescontribute to it, it is seen to consist of nothing but a form ofaffection--an expansion of the soul analogous to friendship and topaternal or filial love, sentiments equally powerful, but which werecognize the duty of distributing between several objects. 

Whence arises this strange contradiction?

Do not declare that it is a paradox, for our ideas on the subjectproceed entirely from our education and from the influence of customupon our minds. If we had been bred on the banks of the Ganges, of theNile, or of the Hellespont, our school of æsthetics would have beendifferent. The most romantic Turkish or Persian poet could notunderstand the vain subtleties of our emotions. Since his laws permithim several wives, it is his duty to love them all, and his heart risesto the occasion. Do you mean to tell me that his is a different love toours? Upon what grounds? What do you know about it? Cannot youunderstand the charms of the obligation he is under to protect them all, in this equal distribution of his affections? It comes to this, in fact, that our ideas on the point are simply and always a question of latitudeand of climate. We love like poor helpless creatures of circumstances. 

It is these very psychological considerations which form the basis ofthe social argument which I intend to demonstrate in the important workwhich I am preparing for the Academy of Science, and which I introduceas follows:--

"Revered Mother, "Among the learned and celebrated members of whom your illustriousSociety so justly boasts, the most competent have already determined totheir satisfaction the general principles which should regulate thestudy of biology. It would be the height of presumption on my part toset up my unworthy opinion against theirs, were it not for the fact thatI can adduce, as a justification for doing so, certain data in my ownpossession which very few, probably, of these highly-respectedauthorities could have procured under such favourable conditions as Ihave been enabled to do. As the nephew of a Pasha I have, &c. "

As you perceive, this modest preface is well calculated to soothe thedelicate susceptibilities of the Institute. 

The civilization of my Kondjé-Gul has become quite the most delightfulsubject of study for me. It presents a complete romance in itself, andthe denial which I have imposed upon myself adds a certain charm to it. I must tell you that her stay with Madame Montier has gradually produceda number of unforeseen complications. Commodore Montague has returned;one of the consequences of which is that the intimacy between the MissesMaud and Suzannah Montague and the ward of worthy Omer-Rashid-Effendi, which has seemed to him a most desirable one, has been so muchencouraged that they have become inseparable, and Kondjé-Gul has ofcourse been invited by her young friends to entertainments given bytheir father--invitations which she has been unable to decline for fear, thereby, of arousing suspicions. 

Discretion on my part, you will thus perceive, has become more than evernecessary, so long as Kondjé-Gul remains with Madame Montier. Ouramorous relations are absolutely reduced to epistolary effusions, and toclandestine meetings, to bring about which we have recourse to all thestratagems employed by separated lovers. There is a certain piquancy inthese adventures which affords us much delight--so true is it that thedeprivation of a pleasure enhances its value. In the morning Kondjé-Gultakes riding-lessons in the Bois with Maud and Suzannah, who areaccompanied by their father. I sometimes take a canter that way, inorder to watch their party ride by. She looks charming in herriding-habit, and the Montague girls are really very pretty, especiallyMaud, who has a pert little playful expression which is veryfascinating. 

I forgot to tell you that Kondjé-Gul's mother, Murrah-Hanum, hasarrived. She is a woman of forty-five, tall, with a distinguishedbearing, and rather handsome still. Yet although she has beenEuropeanized by her residence at the French consul's at Smyrna, andspeaks our language almost with fluency, she retains in her manners allthe peculiarities of the Circassian and the Asiatic; she has aneasy-going and indolent temperament, and in her large dark eyes you canread the stern resignation of the fatalist races. When she appearedbefore me, she lavished upon me, in Oriental fashion, the most ardentexpressions of devotion. I assured her of my desire to secure to her ashare in all the advantages which I wished to confer upon Kondjé-Gul. She expressed her gratitude with calmness and dignity, and swore toobserve towards me the submissive obedience which she owed to herdaughter's husband. In short, you can picture the interview foryourself; it was characterized by all the florid effusiveness ofMahommedan greetings. 

[Illustration]

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CHAPTER X. 

I don't suppose you will be astonished at a curious encounter which hasjust taken place. 

I must tell you that in my uncle's character while in Paris, Barbassou-Pasha, General in the Turkish cavalry, predominates overCaptain Barbassou the sailor. He takes a ride every morning, and I ofcourse accompany him. These are our occasions both for intimate talksand for discussing serious questions; and I beg you to understand thatmy uncle's notions upon the latter are by no means ordinary ones. Headorns such questions with quite original views--views which arecertainly not the property of any other mortal known or likely to beknown in this world below. He starts a subject for me, and I give himthe cue as well as I can. I know of nothing more instructive than tofollow his lines of argument--he has a separate one for eachsubject--upon different departments of private and political life, judged from his own standpoint. As a legislator I fancy he would commitradical mistakes; but as a philosopher, I doubt very much if a matchcould be found for him, for I don't think that his methods can becompared with those of any existing school of thought. 

The other morning we went to the forest of Mendon; my uncle, as a loverof the picturesque, considers that the Bois de Boulogne, with its lake, looks as if it had been taken out of a box of German toys. We arrived atVillebon, a sort of farm situated in the middle of the forest, with afew fields attached to it. There is a restaurant there, which is muchfrequented on Sundays during the summer. 

My uncle, enchanted with the place, wanted to stop and take his glass ofmadeira there. So, leaving our horses in charge of a stable-boy, we wentinto one of the rooms. At a table at the further end, quite astylish-looking woman, who looked as if she were out with somebody onthe spree, was sitting by herself, finishing a liqueur-ice, with her hatoff and lying by her side. Her figure, as viewed from the back, wasexquisite, with graceful and well-set shoulders, an elegantly poisedneck with a lovely little dimple on the nape, crowned by a luxuriantchignon, from which emerged a profusion of rebellious tresses----. 

"Waiter! Madeira, please!" shouted my uncle in his formidable bassvoice. 

At this unexpected explosion, the strange lady jumped up from her chairand looked suddenly round. But directly she saw the captain, shescreamed out and fainted away all at once. 

I must do my uncle the justice of admitting that when he noticed theremarkable effect he had produced, he exhibited a slight gesture ofsurprise; which, however, soon passed off. Without calling any help, infour strides he reached the lady's side, and supported her against thetable, raising up her pretty head which had fallen back, and slappingher hands. Then, having satisfied himself that she had completely lostconsciousness, he began without any more ado to unfasten her dress, toreopen her collar, and, with admirable dexterity, unhooked the upper partof her stays--thereby revealing to our gaze two charming globes, imprisoned in lace. 

This spectacle, I avow, might have made any other man pause in hiszealous operations, --not so my uncle, however; he did not think twiceabout it, but with his usual unconcerned air proceeded to open out thefair one's stays, then took up the water-bottle, and emptied it with onedash into the hollow between her rounded charms. 

A convulsive start, and another scream, indicated immediately thesuccessful effect of this triumphant measure. 

"There!" he said to me, "you see that's all that was needed. "

Just at this moment the gentleman who belonged to the lady came in. Itis hardly necessary to add that when he saw my uncle occupied upon abusiness so distinctly his own, the new-comer evinced some temper. 

"_Bon Dieu!_" he shouted out as he rushed forward, "What's the meaningof this? What's the meaning of this?"

"Nothing serious!" answered the pasha. "Your lady has simply been in aswoon, nothing more; it's all over now!"

"But what have you been about, sir? What do you mean by throwing waterlike that, right upon people's bosoms--?"

"It was all to do you a service, " replied this saviour, quitecomposedly. 

The lady, for her part, looked as if she was going off in another fit, but my uncle, judging no doubt that he had fulfilled his part of theduties, and without troubling himself any further about the mingledalarms and stares of the people of the house who came up, made one ofhis ceremonious bows to the whole company, and took me away with him, saying, "Come, let us drink our madeira. "

So we went out. 

Being accustomed to Barbassou-Pasha's ways, I was certainly notsurprised at such a trifle as this. The waiter having served us, tenminutes had elapsed, and while we were discussing the irreparable lossof the Xerez and Douro vines, all of a sudden the door opened. It wasthe lady's cavalier, and he came in raging like a storm. 

"_Bagasse!_" he exclaimed with a furious look, and his hair bristling uplike a porcupine. "But you won't get off quite so easily as that, sir!Who ever heard of such a thing? Undressing a defenceless woman likethat, and quite a stranger too!! Not to mention that you have spoilt herdress, which looks as if she had been under the pump!"

His words rolled on like a torrent, in the purest Provençal accent. Thismade my uncle smile, as if at some pleasant reminiscence; and putting onhis most engaging expression, he asked the new-comer in a gentle tone ofvoice:

"What are you to this lady?"

"She is my sister-in-law, sir!" he replied in a fury, his voice swellinglouder and louder: "She is my brother's wife, sir; and he's no fool, nomore am I, sir!----Twenty-one years of service, eleven campaigns, andsub-lieutenant of the Customs at Toulon, sir!----So you shall just letme know how it was my sister-in-law fainted through your fault; and whatyou meant by taking the liberty of exposing her in a way that no decentman would be guilty of, not even with the consent of her family, nor ifshe were in mortal danger of her life, sir!"

"And where do you live?" continued my uncle, sipping his madeira, andstill fixing upon the fair one's brother-in-law the same charming gaze. 

"Hôtel des Bouches-du-Rhone, Rue Pagevin. I am escorting mysister-in-law, and I am responsible for her to her husband. "

"My compliments to you, sir! She is a charming young person. "

This magnificent composure of my uncle's so completely disconcerted thelieutenant of the Customs that he stopped short. But he had been carriedon too far by his hot meridional temper not to launch out again verysoon. He followed up with a perfect flood of abuse, interlarded with themost approved insults, with violent epithets and noisy oaths. My unclelistened to him quietly, stroking his chin, and contemplating him as ifwatching the performance of some surprising feat. The Toulonnais saidthat he considered this fainting fit of his sister-in-law's, and thevery unceremonious proceedings which had followed it, equally suspiciousand irregular. 

"My brother's honour has been outraged, " and so on, he observed. 

But at last the good fellow was obliged to pause in order to takebreath. Barbassou-Pasha took advantage of the opening. 

"Pray what is _your_ name?" he asked, still smiling affably. 

"My name, my good man, " loftily replied the man of Toulon, "is FirminBonaffé, lieutenant in the Customs, seen twenty-one years of service andeleven campaigns. And if that is not enough for you----"

"Why, dear me! then this charming young person has married your brother, has she?"

"A week ago, sir, at Cadiz, where she lives! It was because he had togo back over the sea to Brazil that he confided her to my charge. Andyou must not imagine that I can let your outrageous behaviour to herpass without further notice, sir!"

"You are a man of spirit, sir, that I can see!" replied my uncle. He wasgradually falling into his native _assent_, charmed, no doubt, by thesoothing example of his adversary. "I can understand your feelings, " hecontinued; "and for my part, my good fellow, I confess I should not havethe slightest objection to taking a sabre and slicing off a piece ofyour person. " (He uttered this latter word, _individu_, in French, withthe Marseillais pronunciation, _inndividu_. ) "Indeed, " he continuedquite placidly, "I should have no objection to throwing you through thewindow here, just as you are. "

This, following upon his imperturbable coolness throughout, had, I canaver, a most aggravating effect. Being a little man and a braggart, Firmin Bonaffé felt the insult all the more hotly. 

"Throw me through the window? _Me!_" he exclaimed, drawing himself up asif he wanted to touch the sky. "Try then! Just try!"

"By-and-by, " said my uncle, pacifying him with a good-humoured gesture;"but for the present let us have a talk, my good fellow! Certainly Isympathise with your annoyance; for you must have perceived that I knowthis lady, and that she knows me. There has even been a little _liaison_between us----"

"_Bagasse!_ You confess to it, then?"

"I confess to it!" responded the captain, in a conciliatory manner. "But, my dear fellow, a brother's horns, as the saying goes, need nottrouble one so much as one's own. You will of course agree with me onthat point. "

"I agree with you there!" replied the Toulonnais, quite gravely, as ifstruck by a specious argument. "But it does not follow from that----"

"Stop a moment!" interrupted my uncle, who wished to pursue hisargument. "_I_, whom you see here, have also had the honour of beingmade a cuckold, as they say in Molière. You are acquainted with Molière, I dare say?"

"I am; go on!" said the lieutenant, who had made up his mind to restrainhimself while my uncle was developing his explanations. 

"Very well! as you have read him, you ought to know that a misadventurelike that is not such a great matter after all. A second or two and itis all over, just like having a tooth out. Besides, remember this, thetooth cannot be replaced, while in the case of a woman, one can findplenty to take her place. "

"That's true!" returned Firmin Bonaffé, who opened his eyes wide, as ifhe wished to follow this chain of reasoning, which evidently astonishedhim by its perspicuity. 

The issue began to be cleared. 

"Then we have arrived at the same opinion, " continued Barbassou Pasha. "All that remains is to come to an understanding. "

"By no means! by no means! I repeat, my brother confided his wife to mycharge. You have insulted her in public, and in the name of decency--"

"Oh, no!" interrupted my uncle; "you are exaggerating! In the firstplace, my nephew and I were the only persons present; therefore therewas no very great harm done. Then you brought the people up by yourshouting; consequently it is I who have cause to complain. "

"_Té!_ Are you trying to make a fool of me?" exclaimed the Toulonnais, bursting out upon us like a bomb with another explosion. "Do yousuppose, then, that I am going down on my knees to thank you for havingundressed Jean Bonaffé's wife?"

"Jean Bonaffé's wife? No, no, my good fellow!" briefly replied my uncle. 

"Why 'No'?"

"Why, in the first place, because she is actually my own wife!"

"Yours?"

"As I have the pleasure of informing you. And consequently it is I whowould be entitled not to be at all pleased by your intervention in thelittle domestic occurrence which took place just now. "

The Toulonnais, for the moment, was struck dumb with astonishment. 

"Then, _bagasse!_ who are you?" he asked. 

"_The late_ Barbassou, retired general, seen fifty years of service, andthirty-nine campaigns, and the husband of your sister-in-law, who isnow a bigamist--rather an awkward mistake for a lady. "

My uncle might have gone on speaking for the rest of the day, and had itall his own way. The unfortunate lieutenant stared at him, crushed anddumbfounded by this astounding revelation. All at once, and withoutwaiting to hear any more, he turned on his heels, and beat a precipitateretreat by the door. 

The late Barbassou indulged in a smile at this very intelligiblediscomfiture of his adversary. He had finished his madeira, and we wentout to get our horses again. 

Directly he had mounted into the saddle, he said to me, reverting to thesubject of our interrupted conversation:

"Do you know, I think it's all up with the Madeira vines; but as tothose of the Douro, with careful grafting, we might still pull themthrough!"

"I hope so, uncle!" I replied. 

And, as a matter of fact, I think he is right. Perhaps we shall soonknow. 

Come, I must tell you about a new occurrence which is alreadyinfluencing my romance in the most unexpected manner. 

I don't suppose you have forgotten our Captain Picklock and the famousstory of the camels which were recovered through his good offices. Well, the captain, having returned from Aden with the fever, and being atParis on his way home, accepted the hospitality of Baron de Villeneuve, late consul at Pondicherry, whom you know. Two days ago we were invitedto a farewell dinner, given in his honour. It was quite a love-feast:half a dozen friends, all of whom had been several times round theworld, and had met each other in various latitudes. The ladies consistedof the amiable Baroness de Villeneuve, Mrs. Picklock, and my aunt. Youmay imagine what a number of old recollections they discussed duringdinner. After the coffee we went into the drawing-room, where acard-table was being set out for whist, when my uncle said:

"By the bye, what has become of our good friend Montague?"

"Oh, Montague, " answered the baron; "he is in Paris. He has beenprevented from dining with us by an invitation to his ambassador's; buthe will look in this evening, and you will see him. "

"Ah, that's capital!" exclaimed my uncle; "I shall be delighted to seehim again. "

When I heard this name mentioned, I pricked up my ears. Still there wasnothing to indicate that the Montague spoken of was the commodore. Ilistened with curiosity. 

"Will he stay in Paris any length of time?" my uncle continued. 

"The whole winter, " replied the baroness. "He has come to pick up hisdaughters, whom he had left in my charge two years ago, before he wentoff to the North Pole. "

"Ah, yes! little Maud and Suzannah, " observed my uncle. 

"Yes, captain; only your _little_ Maud and Suzannah are now grown-upyoung ladies, " added the baroness with a laugh. 

It was impossible for me to entertain any more doubts; and I confess mymind was far from easy when I heard this. At the thought of meeting thecommodore, my first idea was to get away at once, before he arrived. Although I was confident of the perfect security of my secret, andalthough it was the merest chance that had brought about the intimacywhich I could not have foreseen between Kondjé-Gul and his daughters, Icould not conceal from myself the embarrassment which I should feel inhis presence. As bad luck would have it, I was already seated at thecard-table. I lost my tricks as fast as I could in order to shorten thegame, swearing inwardly at the captain and my uncle, who were both ofthem playing with a provoking deliberation, and lecturing me upon mycareless play. At last, having succeeded in losing my three rubbers, Igot up from the table, alleging a sudden attack of head-ache, when atthis very moment, in the next drawing-room where the baroness wassitting, the servant announced, "Commodore Montague!"

Just imagine my stupefaction, Louis, when I saw the commodore come in, followed by his two daughters and Kondjé-Gul, whom he introduced to thebaroness and to my aunt as a schoolfellow of his daughters, Maud andSuzannah!

You may guess what a state of confusion I was thrown into by thisspectacle. Whatever would happen? My chances of retreat being nowcompletely cut off, I withdrew myself to the midst of a group who weretalking together in a corner of the room. Kondjé-Gul was listeningtimidly to the baroness's compliments, and I heard the latter say:

"I am much indebted, mademoiselle, to our friend the commodore who hasdone us the favour of bringing you with him; Maud and Suzannah hadalready spoken to me so often about you, that I had a great desire tomake your acquaintance. "

The striking beauty of the young foreigner had created quite asensation, and feeling that all their eyes were fixed on her, she didnot venture to look about her. Still it was necessary to anticipate thedangerous consequences of the least imprudence on the part of either ofus, by putting her on her guard before the baroness had the opportunityof introducing me to the commodore and his daughters. ----By rather aclever manoeuvre, therefore, I managed to slip behind my aunt whileshe was talking to the American young ladies. 

When Kondjé-Gul saw me, she could not help giving a start of surprise, but I had time to put my finger to my lips, and signify to her that shemust not show that she knew me. Our encounters in the Bois, during ourmorning rides, had fortunately trained her already for this necessarypiece of dissimulation: and she had sufficient self-control not tobetray our secret. My aunt turned round at that very moment, and seeingme standing by her chair, said to me:

"Oh, André, come and let me introduce you to this young lady!"

Kondjé-Gul blushed when I bowed to her, and returned my bow veryprettily. I was introduced in the same way to the commodore and hisdaughters. There was a vacant chair close to them on which the baronessmade me sit down, and I soon found myself engaged in a generalconversation with them; I may add that the liveliness of the Montaguegirls rendered our conversation much easier than I had expected. Havingbeen brought up in the American way, they possessed that youthfulindependence of spirit which is stifled in our own girls by a morestrict and formal education, on the false ground of the requirements ofmodesty. Kondjé-Gul, although rather reserved at first, expandedgradually, and I was astonished at the change which had been effected inher whole bearing. Certainly one could still guess that she was aforeigner, but she had acquired quite a new ease in her deportment andin her language. Being reassured by her behaviour against the risks ofthis encounter, which I had at first so much dreaded, I freely acceptedthe peculiar position in which I was placed. There was a positive charmabout this mystery, the pleasure of which I can hardly explain to you. 

Although this was quite a small and friendly party, there were nowenough young people to get up a "hop, " so the baroness instructed me tolead off with Miss Suzannah, which I did very willingly, asking her fora polka. 

"What do you think of my friend Kondjé-Gul?" she said to me, when we satdown after a few turns. 

"She is remarkably pretty, " I replied. 

"I suppose you'll ask her for a dance with you?" she continued, with asmile. 

"I shall certainly not fail in this duty to a friend of yours and MissMaud's!"

"Miss Maud and I thank you very much for the attention, " she said, witha ceremonious bow; "only, " she added, smiling maliciously at me, "I mustprepare you for a disappointment, which you will, no doubt, feel verymuch afflicted by--our friend does not dance!"

"What, never?"

"We have given several little parties at my father's rooms, and havenever been able to persuade her to. "

"Ah! that's no doubt because she only knows her oriental dances. "

"You're quite wrong there! She has taken lessons just as we have, andwaltzes splendidly; but she won't even dance with the professor; it'salways Maud or I who act as her partners. She has some principles onthis subject which appear to be rooted in her, and which we have not yetsucceeded in overcoming. "

"If you would help me this evening, " I said, "perhaps we can succeedbetween us. "

"What, is it to be a conspiracy?"

"Quite a friendly one, for you must admit that it is for her owninterest. "

"I won't deny it, " she replied, with a laugh; "but how are we to forceher?"

Then I noticed poor Kondjé-Gul, who was watching us, and seemed to envyus. 

"Listen!" I said, as if a sudden idea had struck me. "I know of a likelyway. "

"Well?"

"Let us take my aunt into our confidence; I see them over there talkingTurkish together. My aunt will perhaps be able to exercise sufficientinfluence over your friend to convince her that she may conform to ourusages without committing any offence. "

"Yes, that's the way to manage it!" exclaimed Miss Suzannah, in delight. "Our conspiracy is making progress; but how shall we get at your aunt?"

"Does Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul understand English?" I asked her. 

"No, not a word. "

"Then it's a very simple matter, " I added. "After this polka I'll takeyou back to your seat; you then communicate our scheme to my aunt inEnglish, and ask for her assistance; I come up, as if by chance, and trymy luck with her for the next waltz. "

We did as we said. I watched from the distance this importantconference, all the details of which I guessed. While Miss Suzannah wasaddressing my aunt in English, I saw her laugh in a sly manner, castinga glance at me. She at once understood our request; then turned herattention again to Kondjé-Gul, and continued, quite undisturbed, thesubject which she had last commenced talking about with her. I had soperfectly anticipated all the phases of this scene, that I seemed tohear what she said. By Kondjé-Gul's face I could tell the moment my auntapproached her on our subject, and the negative gesture with which shereplied was so decisive--I was nearly saying so full of horror--that, fearing lest she should cut off her retreat completely, I deemed itadvisable to intervene as quickly as possible. 

I advanced, therefore, without any more ado, joined their group, andaddressing myself to the handsome young foreigner, I said to her:

"I should not like you to think me indifferent to the pleasure ofdancing with you, mademoiselle; I meant to have asked you for the firstwaltz; but, alas! Miss Suzannah tells me that you do not dance!"

"You have come to the rescue, André, " chimed in my aunt. "I was justendeavouring to convert the young lady to our customs by telling herthat she would be taken for a little savage. "

At this expression, which she had so often heard me utter, Kondjé-Gulsmiled and cast a furtive glance at me. Miss Suzannah supported my aunt, and the victory was already won. They were beginning to play a waltz, soMaud took her hand and forced it into mine; I clasped her by the waistand led her off. During the first few turns Kondjé-Gul trembled withexcitement; I felt her heart beating violently against my bosom, and Iconfess I was nearly losing my own self-possession. Once we foundourselves some way removed from the rest, and, with her head resting onmy shoulder, she whispered in my ear:

"Do you still love me, dear? Are you satisfied with me?"

"Yes, but take care!" I answered hurriedly: "you are too beautiful, andall their eyes are fixed upon us. "

"If they only knew!"----she added, with a laugh. 

I stopped a moment, to let her take breath. Each time any couple camenear us, we appeared to be engaged in one of those ball-roomconversations the only characteristic of which is their frivolity, andas soon as they were out of hearing, we talked together in a low voice. 

"You naughty fellow, " she said, "I have not seen you in the Bois forthree days!"

"It was from motives of prudence, " I replied. "And now prepare yourselffor a surprise. Your new house is ready and you can go there the dayafter to-morrow. "

"Do you really mean it?" exclaimed she, "Oh! what happiness! Then youfind me sufficiently Europeanized?"

"You coquette! you are adorable!----What a nice fan you have, mademoiselle!" added I, changing my manner as Maud came close to us. 

"Do you think so, " she answered, "Is it Chinese or Japanese?"

Maud having passed we resumed our conversation, overjoyed at the idea ofconstantly seeing each other again. The waltz was just ending and I wasobliged to conduct Kondjé-Gul back to my aunt. 

"Listen!" she remarked, "whenever I put my fan up to my lips, that willmean 'I love you'----You must come back soon to invite me for anotherdance, won't you?"

"My dear girl, I can't. "

"Why?"

"Because it is not usual, and would be remarked, " I replied. 

"But I don't want to dance with anyone else!" she said, almost with aterrified look. 

I had not for once thought of this very natural consequence of ourlittle adventure, and I must confess that the idea of anyone else askingher after me took me quite by surprise--like some improbability which nomortal could conceive. 

"What shall I do?" she said. 

It was necessary at all costs to repair the effects of our imprudence. Iinvented for her a sudden indisposition, a dizziness which obliged herto leave off waltzing, and I conducted her back to my aunt. This pretextwould be sufficient to justify her in declining to dance for the rest ofthe evening. 

I know very well, my dear fellow, that you will cry out against me whenI tell you of this strange feeling which pierced me suddenly like athorn in the heart, at the notion of seeing Kondjé-Gul dance withanother man. But how could I help it?

I simply relate to you a psychological fact and nothing more. 

You may tell me, if you like, that this is a ridiculous exaggeration, and that I am giving myself the morose airs of a jealous sultan. Thetruth is that in my harem life, I have contracted prudish alarms andreal susceptibilities which are excited by things which would not haveaffected me formerly. Contact with the outside world will, no doubt, restore me to the calm frame of mind enjoyed by every good husband. Perhaps some day I may even be able to feel pride as I watch my wifewith naked arms and shoulders whirling round the room in the amorousembrace of a hussar. At present my temper is less complaisant: my loveis a master's love, and the notion that any man could venture to pressmy Kondjé-Gul's little finger would be enough to throw me into a fit ofrage. That's what we Orientals are like, you know!

However that be, I led Kondjé-Gul back to my aunt's side, and she didnot dance any more. 

From a corner of the drawing-room I saw some half-a-dozen of my friendsmarch up to get introduced to her, anxiously longing to obtain the samefavour as I had, and I laughed at their discomfiture. 

Meanwhile the commodore, who, by the way, is a highly educated andthoroughly good-natured man, had marked me out, and was so kind in hisattentions to me, that I felt constrained, in spite of my scruples, toaccept his advances. His relations with my uncle, moreover, might havemade the cold reserve which I had so far maintained appear singular. Finally, towards the middle of the entertainment, when he was going awaywith his daughters and Kondjé-Gul, whom he had to see home to MadameMontier's, I had, without meaning it, so completely won his goodopinion, that I found myself invited to accompany my aunt who was diningwith him the next day but one. 

Although it was only a fatality that had led to this extraordinarycomplication, I must own that, when I began to think over it and tocontemplate the possible consequences, I felt a considerable anxiety. Hitherto, by a compromise with conscience, which Kondjé-Gul's childlikesimplicity rendered almost excusable, I had been enabled to deceivemyself about the consequences of this school-friendship with twoAmerican girls who were strangers to me. This, I thought, would never bemore than a chance companionship, and when her time with them was over, the Misses Maud and Suzannah would remain ignorant of her real position, which they had no occasion for suspecting. But I could not fail toperceive that our relations with the commodore must aggravate ourdifficulties to a remarkable extent. 

Our society affords shelter, certainly, to many a hidden romance: wehave both honest loves and shady intrigues confused and interlaced inits mazes so that they escape all notice. Yet, certain as I felt thatnothing could occur to betray our extraordinary secret, I was troubledall the same at the part which I should have to play in this family withwhich my uncle was on such intimate terms. 

Placed face to face with the inexorable logic of facts, I could not longdeceive myself as to the course which the most elementary sense ofdelicacy prescribed to me. I could see clearly during this last eveningparty, that Kondjé-Gul had no further need of Madame Montier's lessonsto complete her social education. Count Térals house being now ready toreceive her, I need only settle her there with her mother in order tocommence at once the happy life of which we had so often dreamed. Thenit would be easy to withdraw gradually from the society of the Montaguegirls, and thus banish all future risks. 

Having decided upon this course, I wrote the same evening to Kondjé-Gulto ask her to prepare for her return. 

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[Illustration]

CHAPTER XI. 

You know, my dear Louis, that whenever I have formed any plan, whether areckless one or even a wise one, I go straight at it with thestubbornness of a mule. This, perhaps, explains many of my follies. According to my view (as a believer in free-will), man is himself a willor independent power served by his organs; he is a kind of manifestationof the spirit of nature created to control matter. Any man who abdicateshis rights, or gives way before obstacles, abandons his mission andreturns to the rank of the beasts. His is a lost power, which hasevaporated into space. Such is my opinion. 

This highly philosophical prelude was necessary, as you will see, inorder to fix my principles before proceeding any further; and, aboveall, in order to defend myself beforehand against any rash accusation offickleness in my plans. Science has mysterious paths, along which wefeel our way, without seeing clearly our destination. The consequence ofwhich is that, just when we fancy that we have reached the end, new andimmense horizons open out before us. 

But I am getting tired of my metaphor. 

It all amounts to this--that having the honour of being my uncle'snephew, nothing happens to me in the same way as to other mortals, andthat consequently all the careful arrangements that I made in regard toKondjé-Gul have eventuated in a manner completely opposed to my expressintentions. But although my objective has been considerably enlarged, itremains substantially the same, as I think you will remark. 

Kondjé-Gul and her mother are now settled down in Count Téral's house;and it is hardly necessary for me to describe to you the joy which shefelt at the termination of her educational seclusion. The first few daysafter her return were days of frenzied delight, and we spent them almostentirely together. Her metamorphosis was now so complete, that I felt asif I were witnessing one of the fabulous Indian _avatars_, and thatanother soul had taken up its dwelling in this divinely beautiful bodyof hers. I could not tire of watching her as she walked, and listeningto her as she spoke. In her Oriental costume, which she occasionallyresumes, in order to please me, the American girl's ways, which she haspicked up from Suzannah and Maud, produce a most remarkable effect. Andwith all this was mingled that exquisitely blended aroma of youth, beauty, and dignity, which permeated her and surrounded her like thesweet perfume of some strange Oriental blossom!

We have settled our plan of life. Knowing the whole truth, as she doesnow, about our social habits, she understands the necessity of veilingour happiness under the most profound mystery. Confiding in the sanctityof a tie which her religion legitimizes, she is aware that we mustconceal it from the eyes of the world, like any secret marriage. Besides, what advantage would there be in lifting the veil of mystery, and taking the poetry out of this romantic union--thus reducing it tothe vulgar level of an ordinary intrigue? If I were to treat my Kondjélike a common mistress, would not that be degrading her?

When I tried to console her for the dulness which this constraint mustcause her, she exclaimed, with vehemence--

"Be so good as not to calumniate my woman's heart! What do I care foryour country, and its laws, so long as you love me? I don't care to knoweither your society, or its customs, or its conventionalities. I belongto you, and I love you; that is all I see, all I feel. I am neither yourwife, nor your mistress. From the depths of my soul I feel that I ammore than either. I am your slave, and I wish to preserve my bonds. Command me, do what you like with me; and when you love me no longer, kill me, that's all!"

"Yes, dear!" I replied, laughing at her rhapsodies, "I will sew you upin a sack, and go and throw you in the Bosphorus some evening!"

She received this remark with a peal of childish laughter. 

"Goodness me!" she said, in her confusion; "why, I was quite forgettingthat I am civilised!"

Count Téral's house has been quite a find for us; it seems just as if ithad been built expressly for Kondjé-Gul and her mother. On theground-floor, approached by a short flight of eight steps, is adrawing-room, which opens into a sort of hall, resembling an artist'sstudio. The latter serves as picture-gallery, library, and concert-room. Above the wainscoting the eye is relieved by silk hangings, of a largegrey-striped pattern on white ground, in contrast with which is the richgarnet of a velvet-covered suite of furniture. There are some curiousold cabinets in carved ebony, set out with statuettes, vases, flowers, and nick-nacks. The general effect is lively, enchanting, and luxurious;in fact, just what the home of a young lady of patrician birth, whoconfines herself to a small circle of friends, should be. On the firstfloor are the private apartments, and on the second the servants' rooms. The establishment is maintained on the elegant, yet simple scale, whichseems proper for members of good society; they keep three horses, and aneat brougham: nothing more. Their luxuries, in short, are all in thewell-considered style suitable for a rich foreign lady and her daughter, who mix in Parisian society with the reserve and delicate taste of twowomen anxious to avoid attracting too much attention. 

Kondjé-Gul's private life is contrived, as well as everything else, topreserve her against solitude or dulness. She is completing her"civilisation" with industrious zeal. Every morning, from eight o'clockto twelve, is devoted to work; governesses from Madame Montier's come tocontinue her course of lessons; then from one to two she practises onthe piano. Her curious mind, with its mixture of ardent imagination andyouthful intelligence, is really producing a wonderful intellectualstructure upon its original foundation of native belief andsuperstitions. I am often quite surprised by hearing her display, on thesubject of our social contradictions, an amount of observation and agrasp of view which would do credit to a philosopher. 

After two o'clock she dresses, and takes a walk or a ride, or makescalls with her friends, the Montague girls; for in spite of all myexcellent intentions, their intimacy has only increased since they wereall emancipated from the restraints of school life. Kondjé-Gul being nowunder her mother's protection, the most regular position she could havein the world, it would have been difficult indeed to find a pretext forbreaking it off. Moreover, I had come to the conclusion that, owing tomy having been introduced to the commodore's family by my uncle, therecould be no danger in these encounters with Kondjé-Gul at their house. It was by Maud and Suzannah that I had been presented to their fairforeign companion, and who would suspect it was not at Madame deVilleneuve's party that I had first spoken to her? Consequently, if anyunforeseen circumstance should some day betray our secret, I could atleast rest assured that Commodore Montague would never think of accusingme of anything more than a romantic adventure, resulting by a naturaltrain of circumstances from that introduction. 

Nothing, as you perceive, could be more correct from the worldly pointof view. I am well aware that as a rigid moralist you would not neglectthe opportunity, if I gave it you, of lecturing me upon the rashness ofmy course. Well, for my part, I maintain that our respect for theproprieties consists chiefly in our respect for ourselves. Chance, whichled us into the society of the foreign colony, together withKondjé-Gul's charming manner, have naturally created for her a number ofpleasant acquaintances, which I should never perhaps have aimed atobtaining for her. All that was needed to secure her this advantage wasthat we should both pay to the world this tribute of mystery to which itis entitled. Our society is so mixed that I do not think you would havebeen scandalised if you had met Kondjé-Gul at the ball at the BritishEmbassy, where she went the other night with her mother, and CommodoreMontague. The admiration which she excited as she passed must certainlyhave disarmed your objections. 

Being always about with the Montague girls, Kondjé-Gul soon got invitedwith them to the balls to which the commodore took his daughters. Havingbeen admitted to two or three aristocratic drawing-rooms, such as thatof Princess B---- and Marchioness d'A----, she obtained the entry to allthe others. With your knowledge of the infatuations of our fashionableworld, you can imagine the extravagant style of admiring gossip withwhich such a beautiful rising star is greeted wherever she goes. Ishould add that the young sinner understands it all very well, and isvery much flattered by it. 

The mystery which surrounds her increases the peculiarity of oursituation. Being always chaperoned by her mother, whose foreign type offeatures creates an imposing impression, Kondjé-Gul is taken for one ofthose young ladies who are models of filial respect. The style of theirhouse and of their dress, and that refined elegance which stamps them asladies of distinction, designate them no less indisputably thepossessors of a large fortune and of high rank. All this, you willperceive, formed a crowning justification for the success whichKondjé-Gul's remarkable beauty had of itself sufficed to achieve forher. Then of course the fashionable reporters of the official receptionsfulfilled their duty by heralding the advent of this brilliant star. They only made the mistake--one of those mistakes so common withjournalists--of describing her as a Georgian. 

Confident in the security of our mystery, Kondjé-Gul and I find nothingmore delightful than the manoeuvres by which we deceive them all. Wehave invented a code of signs, the meaning of which we keep toourselves, and which leads to some very amusing by-play between us. 

Thus the other evening, at Madame de T----'s, she was sitting by Maudand Suzannah, surrounded by a number of admirers, when the young Duke deMarandal, one of the most ardent of my acknowledged rivals, waslavishing upon her his most seductive attentions. Kondjé was listeningto him with a charming smile on her face. Now that evening, I must tellyou, she had resolved upon a bit of fun; and knowing that in Franceunmarried girls are not supposed to wear jewellery, she had fastened onher wrist a heavy gold bracelet as a token of her servitude. So whilethe young duke was talking, she looked at me, playing carelessly thewhile with what she calls her "slave's ring. " You may guess how welaughed together over it. 

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[Illustration]

CHAPTER XII. 

I have to inform you, my dear fellow, that my uncle, who has always beenadmired so far for his virtuous conduct, and whom I should certainlyhave been ready to quote as a paragon of husbands, seems just now on theway to forfeiting his character. 

Here is what I have to relate:

Two days ago I went to the Theâtre des Variétés to see for the secondtime the play which is just now the rage. Not having obtained a goodplace, I left my stall at the end of the first act with the intention ofnot returning, when, as I passed a rather closely-curtained stage-box, I was quite surprised by seeing Barbassou-Pasha, who had pretended to begoing out that evening to an important dinner with some businessfriends. He was accompanied by a lady whose features were obscured bythe darkness. 

Being a discreet and respectful nephew, I was about to turn my eyes theother way, when he beckoned me with an imperative gesture to join him inhis box. I immediately obeyed this peremptory summons, and, going roundby the passage, got the box-opener to usher me in. 

"Come in, and sit down, " said my uncle, pointing out to me a chairbehind him. 

Once more I obeyed him, bowing politely to the lady, whose features Icould not clearly distinguish. I was hardly seated when I recognised thefair heroine of the fainting fit last week. 

Exquisitely attired in a perfectly ravishing costume, Madame JeanBonaffé replied to my compliments by a charming smile, and a prettyglance from her fine Spanish eyes, which showed me clearly that she wastroubled by no remnants of that sudden indisposition which the toounexpected encounter with my uncle had produced. 

Our conversation turned upon the play. As she spoke French rather badly(although she understood it very well), she asked my uncle from time totime to tell her the words she was in need of. This he did, pronouncingthem with grammatical deliberation, and then leaving us to talk alone, while he surveyed the audience like one superior to such frivolities asfeminine smalltalk. 

My companion was very gay, and was crunching bonbons all the time. 

I, as you may be sure, was gallant and attentive, and I followed herexample with the bonbons. 

My former aunt, Christina de Portero, is at the happy age of betweentwenty-eight and thirty. Or, possibly, she is as old as thirty-two. Herfigure is slender and supple, with those bold expansions of the hipswhich, in dancing the fandango, make short work of the skirt. Add tothese fascinating details the accurate information with which I havealready supplied you on the subject of her exuberant bust, and you canpicture her very well for yourself. 

She has a fine erect head, clear and singularly expressive features, awarm complexion, a Grecian nose, with quivering nostrils, and a mouthadorned with pearly teeth, with a soft, black, downy growth on her upperlip. She is an Andalusian, overflowing with life and spirits, whoseexuberance, however, is tempered by her graceful and truly refineddemeanour. One can guess what a fire of passion smoulders within her. 

My uncle was in perfection that evening. From time to time he discardedhis philosophic calm in order to take a look at us and reply in Spanishto his fair friend's questions. He addressed her as "querida, " in thatindulgent tone which is peculiar to him, like a pasha who is signifyinghis approbation. 

During the course of our conversation I discovered that things had goneon like this between them since the day after that famous scene atVillebon, whose lively incidents had doubtless conduced to this friendlyreconciliation. How had my uncle managed to get round the ferociousnative of Toulon? That I could never discover. However this may havebeen, after the play was over, we went off, all three of us, to the CaféAnglais. 

We had a capital supper, during which Madame Jean Bonaffé, feeling moreat her ease under these intimate circumstances, gave free play to herfascinations. I could soon perceive that in her pleasure at forgettingher regrettable escapades of the past, her grief over her supposedwidowhood, and also the short-lived and illegal marriage which she hadcontracted by mistake, she expected that my uncle would settle her atParis. She appeared to speak of this happy prospect as of something uponwhich her mind was set, and it gave rise to a number of beautifulcastles in the air. 

Barbassou-Pasha, gallant and attentive as ever, listened to all theseproposed arrangements for her felicity, in that good-natured, patronizing manner which he always maintains with women, and onlydeparts from in the case of my aunt Eudoxia, who keeps him in check. Nodding his approval of everything she said, he went on eating anddrinking, like a practical man who will not neglect the claims of a goodsupper, and he allowed the fair Andalusian to lavish all her attentionsupon him. 

About two o'clock in the morning, we took a brougham, drove back myaunt to the Rue de l'Arcade, where she occupies a splendidly furnishedsuite of rooms, and then returned home. 

"What do you think of all that, my dear Louis? Hum!"

Our little circle has been augmented by a very pleasant and genialaddition, Mr. Edward Wolsey, a nephew of the commodore's, who may verylikely be engaged to Maud. 

As I have become quite intimate with Commodore Montague's party, Igenerally join their group, without the smallest fear of raising asuspicion regarding these encounters. The attention which I pay toKondjé-Gul and to Suzannah have caused no little envy, for, as you know, Kondjé-Gul pretends she does not dance. This peculiarity, together withher original fascinations with which a certain childish simplicity ismingled, give rise to the most extraordinary conjectures. What is thecause of all this reserve? men ask. Is it modesty, bashfulness, orpride? They know that she can dance splendidly, for she has been seendancing occasionally at private parties with Maud and Suzannah. Theythink it must be due to some jealous _fiancé_, her betrothal to whom iskept secret, and to whom she is devoted. 

Lent having interrupted the course of public entertainments, our privateparties which usually took place at Teral House, became the gainers byit. Maud and Suzannah felt more free and easy there, and Kondjé-Gulexperienced quite a childish delight in holding what she called her"receptions. " Our small circle was soon augmented by a dozen selectfriends, picked carefully from the ranks of their young ball-roomacquaintances. There were one or two mothers among them whose presencedid not interfere with the harmony of these charming gatherings, and thetone of elegant distinction which prevailed in no respect interferedwith their exuberant gaiety. 

This break in the giddy circle of fashionable dissipation, affordedquite a new happiness to Kondjé-Gul and me. In the course of herinitiation into the refinements of our life, her exotic charms hadacquired some new and indescribable embellishments. We spent many a longevening alone together in that delightful privacy which affords thesweetest opportunities for communion between loving hearts, and we grewto feel like a modern Darby and Joan. I was quite proud of my handiwork, and contemplated with joy this pure and ideal being whose nature I hadinspired, whose soul and whose heart I had moulded. The cultivation ofthis young and virgin mind, as I may be permitted to call it, sopossessed by its Oriental beliefs, had produced a charming contrast ofenthusiasm and calm reason which imparted a most original effect to herfrank utterances of new ideas. I was often quite surprised to find inher mingled with her Asiatic superstitions, and transformed as it wereby contact with a simpler faith, the substance of my own privatesentiments and of my wildest aspirations. One might really think thatshe had borrowed her thoughts, nay, her very life, as it were, from me, and that her tender emotions had their source in my own heart. 

Our happiness seemed so assured, and we had it so completely under ourown control, that it would have appeared absurd for us to imagine it tobe at the mercy of Fate. Still, in the midst of this tranquillity theresometimes arose in my mind an anxious thought. Light clouds floatedacross my clear azure sky, and often, as I sat by her side, I began tothink, in spite of myself, about the future--about this marriage ofwhich you yourself have reminded me, and from the obligations to whichnothing could save me. However great the sacrifice might be, I could noteven think of failing to carry out my uncle's wishes in this matter. Myheart bound me to this adoptive father who had placed unlimited faith inmy loyalty: my whole life was pledged to this chivalrous benefactor whohad left all his fortune in my hands, nor could I permit the leastsuspicion of ingratitude on my part to pass over his mind. 

But melancholy as was the recollection of this duty to which I hadresigned myself, I must confess that, after all, this impression was buta fugitive one. I no longer attempted to struggle against the temptationto a compromise, by means of which I had determined to reconcile mypassion for Kondjé-Gul with my marital duties to Anna Campbell. Theretiring nature of the latter would surely permit our union to betreated as one of those arrangements known as _mariages de convenance_, and my charming romantic connection with Kondjé-Gul would always remaina secret. Moreover, my uncle, should he ever discover this after-matchof my oriental life, was certainly not the man to be seriouslyscandalised at it, directly he assured himself that "therespectabilities" had not been violated. 

By-the-bye, I should tell you that was a false alarm I sounded about myuncle! I calumniated him when I believed him to have committed anythingso shocking as a double adultery. 

We went again yesterday to the forest of Meudon, which we had almostgiven up visiting of late, my uncle having been engaged for the lastfortnight upon "some important morning business, " as he says. Well, wearrived at Villebon's restaurant, our usual destination. When we enteredthat celebrated room--empty this time--which had been the scene of thedrama which you remember, the latter came back very naturally to ourmemory, and would have done so even without the superfluous aid of thegrins with which our waiter greeted us. Equally naturally, and asbecomes a dutiful nephew, who does not wish to appear indifferent tofamily matters, I, seeing my uncle cast a glance towards the window nearwhich the incident that produced such momentous consequences occurred, took the opportunity of asking after my pseudo-aunt Christina, aboutwhom I had not had any previous chance of questioning him. 

"Christina!" exclaimed Barbassou-Pasha, "why, she's gone back!"

"Dear me! I thought she wanted to settle in Paris?"

His eye lightened up with a sly look. 

"Oh, yes! She would have liked to do so very well, " he replied. "Infact, we made the round of the upholsterers' shops, --and she fancied, upto the last moment, that it was all settled. But I had made up my mind, and I sent her back to Jean Bonaffé. "

"The deuce you did!" I said, quite astonished at the news. 

Then my uncle just closed one of his eyes, and looked at me out of theother, as he added--

"You see, I was not sorry to return that rascal the little trick heplayed me before!"

And, with that, Barbassou-Pasha began to whistle a hunting song, withall the calm complacency of an honest soul on satisfactory terms withhis neighbour. I accompanied him whistling the bass, and we got on verywell together that time. 

I believe that after this explanation, you will at once renew the esteemwhich you used to accord to my uncle, and will join me in a sincereexpression of regret for having suspected him for one moment in thismatter:--in which, in reality, he had merely played the part of anavenging deity, punishing sinners with remorse by recalling to them theblisses of their lost Paradise. And I am ready to testify that he hasspared no expense; for during the last three weeks he has had from memore than twenty thousand francs in pocket-money. I warrant you he hasgiven his fair friend a jolly time of it, purposely holding the goldencup to her faithless lips, and letting them taste of all thepleasures----

The severe lesson of an abrupt return to her husband, Jean Bonaffé, after the awakening of such delightful anticipations, will certainlyimpress the guilty one, and engrave in her heart a keen remorse for herpast misconduct. 

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[Illustration]

CHAPTER XIII. 

We have been four months at Paris without anything to disturb the happylife which we have led, secure from all suspicions. Nothing can be moreoriginal or sweeter than this love concealed from all prying eyes, theexquisite pleasures of which you can imagine. Kondjé, delighted with hertriumphs, plays everywhere her part of enchantress. 

My romance is, however, complicated by a circumstance which I must atonce relate to you. 

You will not have forgotten that my aunt had seen Kondjé-Gul atBaroness de Villeneuve's party, and that she conceived a great likingfor her. Their friendship having been cemented during several parties atthe commodore's, where they met each other, my aunt very naturallyinvited Madame Murrah and her daughter to dinner one evening. She isfond of young people, as you know; and Suzannah, Maud, and Kondjé-Gulformed such a charming trio, that she soon insisted on their coming todine with her every Thursday. Indeed, Kondjé has frequently met AnnaCampbell there, for the latter has leave out from her convent twice amonth. The consequence was, we became in time so completely involved inintimate relations together, that it would have been imprudent to makeany break in them: moreover, Kondjé-Gul was so very happy and so proudof this intimacy which allied her still more closely with me! All ofthem were charmed with her; even my uncle, who, delighted at theopportunity of conversing with her in Turkish, treated her with quite adisplay of gallantry. 

Among the constant visitors at our house, I should have mentioned CountDaniel Kiusko, a fabulously rich young Slav, the owner of platinum minesin the Krapacks mountains, and in the forests of Bessarabia. This beinghis first visit to Paris, I found myself selected to act as his guide orbear-leader, and to introduce him to our gay world. It was a simpleenough task, for that matter, since I had hardly anything to do but topresent him in society. 

He was tall, slenderly built, and a fine specimen of the young boyard, with that determined expression of countenance which suggests a habit ofacting and being obeyed as the feudal lord. In less than a week, withthe most lofty recklessness, he had thrown away half a million francs inthe club at baccarat, and his other doings are all in the same vein. With such a start, you may be sure he has taken the world by storm, sothat his friendship is sought after as a prize. A successful duel whichhe fought with a Brazilian made his reputation as a skilful swordsman. 

His gratitude to me, and a sort of frank admiration of superiorqualities, which he fancies he recognises in me, have won for me hisfriendship. I have quite become "his guide, philosopher, and friend. " Ifind him a capital companion, and, like some modern Damon and Pythias, we hardly pass a day without seeing one another. At first he was rathersurprised that I abstained from the promiscuous pleasures of the gayworld; but he soon divined that I was restrained by the spell of asecret passion, and this placed me still higher in his estimation. 

I gained credit with Kiusko by taking him into my confidence, andtelling him that I had in truth a _liaison_ with a young widow, whosehigh position in society demanded extreme prudence on my part. With thetact of a thorough-bred gentleman, he never referred to the subjectagain. Being himself associated with us in our relations with theMontagues, through meeting them at my aunt's, he would never dream of myhaving any attachment in that quarter; indeed, he was now almost on anequal footing of friendship with me in our intercourse with the fairtrio, and was spoken of as one of their "tame cats. " Such was theposition of things when the following event occurred. 

It happened a few days ago. I was in my aunt's boudoir, talking aboutsome matter, which I forget; she was knitting away at a little piece ofornamental work, with her usual business-like industry, and I wasplaying with her dog "Music, " a young animal from Greece. 

"By the bye, André, " she said, "I have an important commission todischarge, concerning which I must consult you. "

"All my wisdom is at your service, aunt. "

"Let us talk seriously, " she continued; "you have to undergo a regularcross-examination, and I command you to reply like an obedient nephew. "

"Oh, you frighten me!"

"Don't interrupt me, please. In my person you see before you a familycouncil. "

"What, all at once, and without any preparation?--without even changingyour dress?"

"You impertinent boy, do you mean to say this does not suit me?"

"On the contrary, I find it quite bewitching. "

"Well, then?"

"All right, I ought not to have interrupted you. "

"Very well! let us resume--let me see, what was I saying?"

"That in that handsome dark violet velvet dress you represent thegrandmother of the family. "

"Just so, you're quite right! Now, attention please! The trial hascommenced, be on your guard. "

"Right you are!"

"Well, what do you think of Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul Murrah?" she askedme point blank, looking me straight in the face. 

This question was so unexpected that I felt myself blush like a girl ofsixteen. 

"Why, " I answered, "I think her--most charming and beautiful. "

"That's right! Pray don't alarm yourself, my dear young man!" continuedmy aunt with a smile. 

"Oh, I'm not the least alarmed!"

"That's quite clear!--Well, you admit that you find her most charmingand beautiful. Let us proceed. What is your present position with regardto her? Tell me the whole truth, and mind don't keep anything back. "

I had found time to recover my self-possession. 

"Take care, " I said, laughing in my turn; "this question of yours maylead us much further than you imagine. "

"That's all nonsense. Don't try to turn off my questions with jokes, andplease leave my dog's ear alone! If you pull it about like that, you'llmake it grow crooked. There, that'll do! Now, answer me seriously, andwith all the respect which you ought to feel in speaking of a younglady like Kondjé-Gul Murrah. "

I was inspired with the brilliant idea of making game of her. 

"Must I tell you the whole truth?" I replied. "Do you really require toknow it?"

"I _demand_ it, " she said, "in its naked, unsophisticated reality. "

"All right, aunt! you shall have it;" I said, in a confident tone. "Isuppose you know that Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul is a Circassian. Well, shebelongs to my harem; I bought her at Constantinople eight months ago. "

My aunt split her sides with laughter. 

"There now!" she exclaimed; "what ever is the use of expecting a word ofsense from a lunatic like you?"

"You asked me for the truth, and I have told it to you!" I replied, laughing secretly at the trick I was playing her. 

"Leave off talking rubbish! Can't you understand, you silly boy, that Iam speaking to you about Kondjé-Gul because I can see how the land lies?It is quite clear to me that between you two there is some sort ofsecret understanding; now what is it? I know nothing about it, buthowever innocent this mystery may be, I see too much danger about it notto caution you. Mademoiselle Murrah is not one of those drawing-roomdolls with whom it is safe for a man to risk a little of his heart inthe game of flirtation; no, the man who once falls in love with herwill love her for ever, body and soul, he will be bewitched. "

"Why, then, she must be Circe herself, " I exclaimed: "it's a terriblelook-out for me!"

"Oh, you need not laugh, " she continued: "your lofty philosophicalcontempt would not serve you in the least. A beautiful sorceress likethat girl is all the more dangerous because her own heart is liable tobe kindled by the flames of her incantations. In her heart slumberpassions which will devour her some day, both her and the man she loves. That is why I am reading you this lecture, with the object of warningyou in time, before your youthful recklessness has carried you too farin this affair; especially as you are already betrothed to another. "

Notwithstanding the semi-jocular manner which my aunt had preservedthroughout this lecture, I could easily perceive that she was seriouslyalarmed on my behalf. I therefore abandoned my jesting tone, assuringher that neither my imagination nor my heart were in the smallest dangerwith Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul Murrah, and that "no change whatever wouldbe made in our present relations. " This jesuitical reply appeared tosatisfy her. 

"In that case, " she continued, "I may set to work to get her married?"

"Get her married?" I exclaimed in astonishment. 

"Certainly. Did I not tell you, before I began questioning you, that Ihad an important commission to discharge? My young cousin Kiusko adoresher, he has begged me to see Madame Murrah on his behalf, and I expectto call on her this very day, to set this important business in train. "

Although I might have long ago foreseen the consequences of emancipatingKondjé-Gul from her harem life, and the conflict which it would involveme in with our social customs, I must admit that this revelation of myaunt's intentions caused me no small anxiety. Kondjé's remarkable beautycreated too much sensation in the world for me to hope that rivals wouldnot turn up in large numbers, against whom I should have to defendmyself. Her personal independence, the wealth which her mother'sestablishment indicated, and her youth, all seemed to leave the fieldopen to sanguine hopes, and to attempts to win her hand, to the openacknowledgment of which no obstacle appeared. Nevertheless, wellprepared as I was for such attempts, and fully expecting to witnessthem, I was very much affected by the news that Kiusko was my rival. Itwas impossible for me to doubt that his determination to marryKondjé-Gul was the result of reflection as well as of love, and that itwould be only strengthened by any obstacle. Of a calm and energeticnature, endowed with an iron will, and accustomed to see everythingsubmit to his law, he had also preserved that freshness of theaffections which would be intensified by the impulses of a first love. 

All the same, and notwithstanding my friendship for him, I certainlycould not think of explaining to him the strange situation in which hehad in his ignorance placed himself. To proclaim Kondjé-Gul to be mymistress would be to banish her from the society into which she had wonher way: it would have wounded her spirit to the quick and determinedher degradation, without reason or advantage either for Kiusko or formyself. Moreover, did I not owe a stricter fidelity to her than to thisfriend of yesterday?

I resolved accordingly to keep my counsel, and wait upon events. I felttoo confident of regulating them in my own interests to be afraid of theconsequences. However, I was surprised by an incident which at firstseemed insignificant. Having been informed of my aunt's projected visitto Kondjé's mother, I went to her the same evening, thinking that shewould at once tell me about it, but she said nothing. I thought, ofcourse, that some obstacle had occurred which had deferred my aunt'snegotiations. 

The next day, without seeming to attach any importance to the matter, Iquestioned my aunt about it. She informed me that she had been to MadameMurrah's the day before. 

"Did you commence your overtures on behalf of Kiusko's grand scheme?" Iasked her. 

"Yes, " she answered. 

"And--were they entertained?"

"Oh, you are going too fast! According to Mussulman usage, matters don'tproceed at that rate. We did not get any further than the preliminaries. I explained our amorous friend's eager anxiety, and the next step is toconsult Kondjé-Gul. "

"Meanwhile, does the mother appear favourable to your request?"

"It was not her duty to declare herself at the first interview, " said myaunt. "She has, as you know, all the fatalistic composure of her race;still, when I described Daniel's fortune, I fancied she listened to mewith some approval. "

"Did she tell you what dowry she could give her daughter?"

"Dowry! are you mad? We talked in Turkish and discussed the matter inthe Turkish way. I think I should have surprised her exceedingly if Ihad given her the idea that I was asking, not only for Kondjé-Gulherself, but for some pecuniary remuneration to the noble Kiusko fortaking her. That would have been sufficient to upset all her ideas, fordon't you know that in the East it is the husband, on the contrary, whoalways makes a present to the parents of the girl he wants to have? Thisarrangement, by the way, seems to me more chivalrous and more manly. Kiusko, for that matter, cares about as much for money as for a straw:he loves her, and that is enough for him. "

I took good care not to disturb the illusive hopes which my aunt hadalready conceived. Being reassured by the manner in which Madame Murrahhad played her part, it only remained for me to determine the time andthe form of refusal best adapted to the circumstances. 

While I was in the midst of these reflections, Count Kiusko came in, like any familiar friend, without being announced. He held out his handto me with more than his usual cordiality. By his happy looks I judgedthat he had already had a word of encouragement from my aunt, and thathe had come to learn in detail the result of her first attempt. Notwishing to disturb their interview, I pretended after a minute or twothat I had some letters to write, and left them. 

The following morning I was only just out of bed when Kiusko came upwith his spurs on. We had decided the day before to ride together to theBois. As he usually went to the rendezvous by himself, I guessed thatto-day he wanted to appear to have been taken there by me, in order tocover his embarrassment, or perhaps his bashfulness when he metKondjé-Gul. Having made up my mind to avoid all confidences, I kept myvalet in the room with me, dressing myself very deliberately, andwithout any compassion for Kiusko's impatience. This compelled us, directly we were mounted, to gallop to the Bois, a procedure not veryfavourable to confidential effusions. 

We only joined the party at the Avenue of Acacias on their way back. Itook care to watch Kiusko as he saluted Kondjé-Gul. He blushed andstammered out a compliment addressed collectively to all the threegirls. Kondjé's countenance betrayed nothing more than the flushproduced by her ride. We started off in two separate parties. Frommotives of discretion, I suppose, Kiusko remained behind with Suzannahand the commodore. Edward and I had gone in front with Kondjé-Gul andMaud, who was quarrelling with her cousin upon the important question, as to whether we should gallop straight ahead or make a round betweenthe trees. Kondjé-Gul decided the matter by suddenly entering the cover. 

"Who loves me, let him follow me!" she said, with a laugh. 

I followed her, and in a few moments we found ourselves side by side. 

"Oh, such a fine piece of news!" she said to me, as soon as Maud andEdward, who were behind us, were out of hearing. 

"What is it?" I asked. 

"Well, I must tell you that the day before yesterday your aunt came tosee my mother while I was away, and there and then formally requested myhand in marriage for the noble Count Daniel Kiusko. My mother relatedthis to me this morning, when I got up. "

"And what did you answer her?"

"Oh, I laughed at first, and then I told mamma that she must inform youat once, so that you may decide upon the manner in which she shallrepulse the enemy. "

"That's simple enough, " said I. "She has only to tell my aunt, when nextshe calls, that she has consulted you. "

"Is it as simple as that?"

"Certainly, " I said, with a feeling of annoyance at the idea that sheknew of Daniel's love. "Is it not solely your will that has to beconsulted?"

Kondjé-Gul regarded me with astonishment. 

"My will?" she said. "Good heavens! do you love me no longer?"

"Why should you imagine I love you no longer?" I answered. 

"One might suppose that you wished to remind me of that horrible libertywhich I am so much afraid of. "

I then realised how stupid and abrupt I had been, and asked herforgiveness. 

"You naughty fellow!" she said, pointing to the golden bracelet claspedround her arm. 

We decided that I should go to her mother to concert with her anddictate to her the precise terms of a refusal which should cut short allKiusko's hopes. We were just then emerging from the narrow avenue, andMaud and Edward were joining us again. Our ride came to an end withoutany other incident of note, except indeed that it appeared to me Danielwas watching Kondjé and myself, as if he wanted to guess what had takenplace during our _tête-à-tête_, which he had observed from a distance. Itroubled myself no further about this, but made up my mind to takemeasures that very day to put an end to this stupid adventure. 

About three o'clock I went to Téral House, and in an interview withKondjé-Gul's mother drew up the precise terms of her answer to my aunt, which consisted of a formula usually employed on similar occasions. 

"Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul feels greatly flattered by the honour whichCount Daniel Kiusko has intended to confer upon her, but is unable toaccept it. " To this we added, in order to convince him it was not one ofthose half-decisive answers which he might hope to overcome: "Shedesires to inform their friend confidentially that her heart is nolonger free, and that she is engaged to one of her relations. " Thispartly-confidential answer possessed the merits of a candidcommunication, after receiving which no honourable man could press herwithout giving offence. Moreover, it established a definite status, under which Kondjé-Gul could shelter herself for the future from allimportunate attempts on the part of my rival. 

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CHAPTER XIV. 

You are returning once more, my dear Louis, to your favourite occupationof knocking down skittles which you have set up yourself, and are tryingto exercise your humorous spirit at my expense. 

You tell me that my Oriental system of life crumbles away upon contactwith the hard world, and with those sentiments which I venture to classamong the antiquated prejudices of a worn-out civilisation. 

You do not perceive, you subtle scoffer, that every one of yourarguments can be turned against you to establish the superiority of thecustoms of the harem. Can't you see that all these mishaps, thesetroubles, and these outbursts of jealousy, which you have intentionallymagnified, originate solely in Kondjé-Gul's emancipation from the harem, and that none of them would have occurred if I had not departed fromTurkish usages? Consider on the one hand the tranquillity of my amourswith Zouhra, Nazli, and Hadidjé, my easy life with them, as a poet and asultan, secure from all annoying rivalries, and on the other hand lookat these difficulties and contests arising all at once out of our socialconventionalities. 

I do not really know why I should waste any more time discussing thequestion with you. 

Being now confident that after the declaration which Madame Murrah wouldnext day make to my aunt, Kondjé-Gul would be freed henceforth from theimportunities of Count Kiusko, I soon recovered my peace of mind. Ientertained no doubts as to the effect which such a decisive answerwould produce upon Daniel. I knew that he was too deeply in love not tofeel the blow severely. 

I expected, accordingly, to hear that he was mourning in some secludedretreat over his lost hopes. For him to see Kondjé-Gul again after suchan unqualified refusal would only revive his sorrows and cause him moresuffering. More than this, it would place her in an uncomfortableposition since his declaration of love to her. But while I wasconvincing myself as to this necessity for him to break off hisrelations with her, great was my surprise at seeing him reappear amongus the following day as calm as ever, and just as if no unpleasantincident had befallen him. Time went on, and still there was no changein this respect. One might even have said, to judge from his easydemeanour and from a certain increase of assurance in his manner, thathe felt confident in the future success of his endeavours, and was onlywaiting for the happy moment when his aspirations would be realized. 

I could not help being puzzled by this remarkable result of a decidedrejection of his suit, but as I had so plainly avoided my rival'sconfidences in my embarrassment at the part I was playing, I could notnow attempt to regain them. I began to suspect that Kondjé-Gul's motherhad rehearsed her part imperfectly, and at last made up my mind toquestion my aunt discreetly on this point. 

"By the by, my dear aunt, " I said to her one morning in a perfectlyunconcerned tone of voice, "you have not told me anything more aboutKiusko's intended marriage. "

"Ah, there is no longer any question of it!" she answered me. "Hepresented himself too late: the fair Kondjé-Gul's heart is occupied. Sheis even engaged to one of her own relations I hear. "

"Then he seems to me to be bearing his disappointment very easily. "

"Oh, don't be too sure about that! Daniel is not one of those whininglovers who publish their lamentations to the whole world. He loves her, as I could see by his sudden paleness when I announced to him thedefinite rejection of his offer; but he has an iron will, and you may becertain that if he is so calm, that only shows he still cherishes somehope. As for me, I won't believe in Kondjé-Gul's marriage with hercousin, until I see them coming out of church together. "

Now although it was of small consequence to me that Kiusko, in hisrobust faith, still preserved a remnant of hope, I must admit that Ifelt somewhat aggravated by his presumptuous pertinacity. As he hadformally declared his love, Kondjé-Gul could not henceforth feign toignore it. There was an offensive kind of impertinence to her about thatcoolness of his, which affected to take no account of an engagement ofwhich she had informed him as a justification for her refusal. Howeverreserved he might be, and even if he never betrayed by a single word thesecret feeling which he concealed so carefully during our intercourse asfriends, it would be impossible for me not to feel the constraint ofsuch a situation. So far as he was concerned, it did not seem to troublehim in the least. This demeanour, and this insolent confidence ofhis--such as might be expected in a petty feudal tyrant--irritated meinexpressibly; but an incident occurred, at first sight insignificant, which diverted the current of my suspicions into quite a differentchannel. 

One morning, about ten o'clock, I was accompanying my aunt upon one ofher rounds of visiting the poor. As we happened to be passing CountTéral's house, I was very much surprised to see Daniel coming out of it. What had he been doing there? This was Kondjé-Gul's lesson time, andcertainly not the time of day for callers. This discovery put me into astate of agitation which it was extremely difficult for me to avoidshowing. 

I reflected, however, that it was quite possible Maud or Susannah hadentrusted him with a message or with some book, which he had come todeliver. However that might be, I wanted to clear up the mystery. Whenhalf-way down the Champs Elysées, I pretended to have an order to giveto a coachmaker, and leaving my aunt to return home alone, I went backto Téral House. 

As I had anticipated, Kondjé-Gul was shut up with her music-mistress. Isent up my name in the ordinary way, and was immediately introduced. 

"What! is it you?" she said, pretending before her mistress to besurprised at such an early visit. "Have you come to play a duet withme?"

"No, " I answered, "I was passing by this way, and I will only troubleyou long enough to find out if you have formed any plans for to-day withyour friends the Montagues. "

"None, " she replied, "beyond that they are expecting me at threeo'clock. "

"Then they did not send you any message this morning?"

"No. Has anything happened?" she added in Turkish. 

"Nothing whatever, " I replied, with a laugh. "My aunt brought me thisway, so I thought I would come and say good morning to you. "

"How kind and nice of you!" she said, with evident warmth. 

She had not left her piano, and I remained standing, so as to show thatI had only called on my way, to receive her orders. I shook hands withher, saying that I did not wish to interrupt her lessons any more, andtook my departure. 

It was evident that Kondjé knew nothing about Daniel's visit. On my wayout I spoke to Fanny, and gave her some instructions, telling her that Iwas going to send some flowers. This girl was quite devoted to me, andher discretion might be perfectly relied upon. However, as I did notwish her to think that I was questioning her about her mistress, I askedher in an indifferent manner if the count had not brought anything forme. 

"I don't know, sir, " she answered. "The count came an hour ago, but hetold me to send in his name to Mademoiselle Kondjé's mother, who wasexpecting him, I think, and who ordered me to show him into the smalldrawing-room, where she went to see him. When he left, he said nothingto me. "

"Did he say nothing to Pierre?" I added. 

"Pierre was not in, sir, " replied Fanny. "The count only spoke to MadameMurrah. "

"Ah, very well!" I said, carelessly. 

These inquiries had led me to a curious discovery. What was the meaningof this private interview between Kondjé's mother and Daniel? Determinedto get to the bottom of this mystery, I went up without any more ado toMadame Murrah's private sitting-room. She did not appear surprised, fromwhich I concluded that she knew I was in the house, and was prepared tosee me. For my part I pretended to have come to settle some detailsconnected with the house and the stables, for I was obliged to assisther in the management of all her domestic affairs. She listened to whatI said with that deferential sort of smile which she invariably assumeswith me. When she was quite absorbed in the calculations which I hadsubmitted, I said to her all at once:

"By the way, what did Count Kiusko come here for so early in the day?"

I thought I noticed her face redden, but this was only a transientimpression. 

"The count?" she answered, in a most profoundly surprised tone. "I didnot see him! Has he been here?"

"Why, Fanny showed him in here, " I replied, "and you have spoken tohim. "

"Ah, yes! _this morning_, " she exclaimed sharply, and with emphasis onthese words. "Goodness me, what a poor head I have! I thought you said_yesterday evening_. I understand French so badly, you know. Yes, yes, he has been here. The poor young man is off his head. This is the secondtime he has been here to beg me for Kondjé-Gul's hand. He is quitecrazy! crazy!"

"Oh, then he has been before! But why did not you inform me?"

"It is true: I had forgotten to do so!" she replied. 

I deemed it useless to appear to press her any more on the matter. HadMadame Murrah tried to keep me in ignorance of these visits of CountKiusko's? Or was this merely a proof, or the contrary, of the slightimportance which she attached to them? In any case, for me to let hersee my distrust in her would only put her on her guard. So I broke offthe subject, and resumed my household instructions, as if I had remarkednothing more important in this matutinal incident than the stupidpertinacity of a discomfited lover. A quarter of an hour afterwards Itook my leave of her in quite a jaunty way. 

Once out of the house, I considered the matter over calmly, and made myreflections upon it. Had I, by accident, stumbled upon a plot, or was myjealous mind alarmed without occasion by a foolish attempt whichKondjé-Gul's mother could not avert? Accustomed as she was to a sort ofpassive submission, had she allowed herself to be cowed by a man whospoke in the tone of a master? Was it not possible that, in herembarrassment with the part she had to play, she had let out rather morethan was prudent? Was anything more than this necessary in order toexplain Daniel's conduct?

Without any kind of scruple Kiusko brought to the contest all the savageenergy of a will constituted to bend everything before it. The choice ofinstruments was a matter of small importance to a man of his nature, theincompleteness of whose education had left him scarcely half-civilized. Accustomed to have all his own way, he made straight for his object, rushing like a bull at every obstacle. The suppleness of his Slavoniccharacter displayed itself in this desperate game, in which, thehappiness of his life was at stake. He loved Kondjé-Gul, as I knew fullwell, with that blind love which admitted no compromise with reason. With the mother as his ally, he no doubt conjectured that the marriagewould be brought about in accordance with Turkish custom withoutKondjé-Gul being consulted. 

My first idea was to interfere violently and so frustrate this plot, butenlightened upon those manoeuvres, which afforded me an explanation ofDaniel's incredible constancy after the repulse which he had sustained, I could see the folly of any provocation on my part, and the consequentdanger of injuring Kondjé-Gul and perhaps creating a scandal. HenceforthI hold the threads of these underhand intrigues: I am about to catch myrival in his own trap and mislead him as much as I please. 

These reflections calmed me a little. After all, would it not be insanefor me to lose my temper about a rivalry which, all said and done, wasonly one of the innumerable incidents which I had foreseen asconsequences of Kondjé-Gul's beauty? Such beauty would of course attractpassionate admiration wherever she went. Good heavens! what would becomeof me if I took any more notice of Kiusko than of the rest of them?Besides, being informed now of all his movements, I was in a position tointervene whenever it became necessary to put an end to his hostileprojects. 

A great worry has come upon me, my friend. 

I must tell you that there are some barracks in the Rue de Babylone;from which it follows that a great many officers lodge in the vicinity. Moreover, the garden of my house, although enclosed by a wall on theboulevard side, is not sufficiently screened to prevent daring eyes frompeering into it from various neighbouring windows. 

Now, as a few days of sunshine had favoured us with very mild weather, my houris did not fail to go and stroll about the lawns. Naturallyenough they attracted the attention of some indiscreet persons whosecuriosity had been quickened by the apparent mystery of this closedhouse, and by all the gossip in the neighbourhood about "the Turk. " Italso happens that the house adjoining mine is tenanted by the colonel, whence it results that from morn to eve, there is a constant coming andgoing of sergeant-majors, lieutenants and captains, who rival oneanother in casting fascinating glances upon this corner of Mahomet'sparadise. 

I must do my houris the justice to say that they do not show themselvesunveiled; still I will leave you to imagine the agitation which theycause among the whole regimental staff. 

All this was certainly but an inconvenience which pure chance threw inmy way, amid my methodical experiments with the new manners and customsof which I wish to show the superiority. It would not have been fittingfor a sincere psychologist to convert a purely adventitious difficultyinto a defeat; and the removal of my harem would have furnished aspecious argument for some detractor of my doctrines who would not havefailed to seize hold of this slight practical obstacle in order to raisea controversy. Then, too, I should have been violating human dignity andconfessing the fragility of my system of social renovation if I had solowered myself as to completely sequestrate the women after the fashionof some vile Asiatic satrap. 

To be brief, I stood firm; and I conscientiously instructed Mohammed, who was already alarmed, not to interfere with the freedom of theirdiversions in the garden. 

Being confident in the healthy effects of an application of the immortalprinciples, I had ceased to busy myself about this affair, when, as Iarrived in the evening three days ago, I saw Mohammed hasten to me, looking scared. With signs of acute emotion, he begged of me to hear himprivately, having an important communication to make. 

I entered his room where I invited him to unbosom himself. 

He then informed me--in a tone of genuine despair, I will admit--thatthe honour of the harem and also his own were terribly compromised. Inpoint of fact, he had during the day surprised Zouhra at her windowcorresponding by signs with a young and superb nobleman who had come toone of the windows of the neighbouring house. This audacious lover, judging by his military uniform, bedizened with gold lace, must at theleast be a _muchir_ or general. 

Had a thunderbolt fallen at Mohammed's feet it certainly would not havecaused him greater consternation. The unfortunate fellow did not seem todoubt for one moment what punishment awaited him. But I reassured him, for as you may well suppose, with my system this useless practice isdestined to disappear as being superfluous: the dignified position ofeunuch not being compatible with our laws. However, under thecircumstances, I did not think that I could dispense with opening aserious inquiry concerning this offence which, according to Mohammed, had been perpetrated repeatedly for some days past. Even letters, thrownover the walls, had been exchanged. 

On the morrow then, I repaired to the house before the hour usuallyselected for this correspondence, and placing myself on the upper floor, I waited, screened by a curtain, thanks to which I could watch themanoeuvres of the accomplices, at my ease. Mohammed was moaning like afallen man, deprived of his grandeur and dishonoured. I soon saw Zouhraappear, charmingly adorned and carrying a nosegay in her hand; but theother window, which had been indicated to me, remained unoccupied. Afterten minutes or so she became restless and began to pace up and down herroom in a way that conclusively proved her impatience. 

Provided with a good opera-glass I carefully watched her goings-on. 

Nearly half an hour elapsed. There was still nobody at the other window. Mohammed, who became more and more downcast, was beginning to fear thathe would be unable to prove to me the full extent of my disgrace, whensuddenly the swift approach of my houri to her window betokenedsomething fresh. She lowered her nosegay by way of saluting, and myglasses were at once turned to the direction in which she was dartingher glances. 

On the third floor of the colonel's house I could see a splendiddrum-major in full uniform, with large epaulets, his chest bedizenedwith broad gold braid and his hand resting upon his heart. As the roomwas not high enough to accommodate the lofty plume towering above hisbearskin, my rival was leaning half out of the window, and his tricolourinsignium seemed to pierce the sky. 

I remained dazzled at the sight of him: he glistened like the sun!

With Zouhra it had been love at first sight. The pantomimic businessgradually began on both sides; on the girl's part it was naïve and stillrestrained; on the drum-major's, ardent and passionate, though now andthen he struck a contemplative attitude. He showed her a letter and sheshowed him another one, which she held in readiness. The sight made aflush rise to Mohammed's brow. 

In presence of such avowals doubt was no longer possible. The drum-majorsoon became emboldened and raised the tips of his fingers to his lips. His kisses journeyed through space; and then with his hands clasped hebegged of Zouhra to return them. 

I must confess that the wretched girl defended herself for a few minuteswith bashful reserve. But she was so pressed and implored that at last Isaw her weaken, and anxious and hesitating, she yielded. 

I was betrayed!

Mohammed sank down, uttering a plaintive moan. For my own part I thoughtof my uncle's misfortune. Was it fate?

However, my uncle is not the only man who comes from Marseilles; I alsocome from that city, and although I am merely his nephew, I have attimes enough of his hot disposition to feel as he felt after similarstrokes of fate. Having been drawn into his irregular orbit, passingthrough the same phases as he passed through, I must expect that nothingwill ever happen to me in the same way as it would happen to others, himself excepted. Thus the similarity of our adventures--the drum-majorin my case taking the place of my uncle's Jean Bonaffé, --ought not tohave surprised me; it should have been foreseen like a philosophicalcontingency previously inscribed in the book of destiny. And, indeed, totell the truth, I should have considered the slightest departure fromthe precise law of fate illogical. 

However, I was either in a bad disposition of mind or I had been toosuddenly and speedily awakened from the presumptuous quietude into whichI had sunk, for I will admit to you that on thinking over my case, Iexperienced at the moment a singular feeling of astonishment. 

Horns are like teeth, a witty woman once said: they hurt while they arecoming, but afterwards one manages to put up with them!

True as this remark of an experienced person may be, yet having my ownideas as to these vain appendages which I could not prevent fromsprouting; and being, moreover, sufficiently provided with proofs whichI had duly weighed, my first idea was to dart head first athwart thisintrigue in which my dishonour was a certainty. Leaving Mohammed uponthe divan where he had stranded, I hastened by way of the stairs to theguilty creature's room. 

I softly opened the closed door, stepped gently over the carpet, andapproached her from behind in time to catch her just as she had one handon her heart and the other on her lips. 

She gave a little shriek, while the drum-major, on seeing me appear sosuddenly, made a gesture of despair. Then he drew back with such hastethat his plume caught against the wall above the window, with the resultthat his bearskin was knocked off, and turning a sommersault fell intothe courtyard. 

Zouhra thereupon gave another shriek. 

All this had occurred with the rapidity of a flash of lightning. Myrival, closing his window, had disappeared like a jack-in-the-box. 

We were alone. 

"Ah! ha!" I then said to the unworthy creature, "so this is yourconduct----"

She answered nothing; she still hoped, no doubt, that she would be ableto deny the facts, with the brazen assurance of the woman who, althoughsurprised in the act, puts on a grand air, and waxes wrathful as at aninsult. 

"Who was that man up there, " I resumed, "with whom you werecorresponding?"

"A man!" she finally answered with her strong Turkish accent which Iwill spare you. "I don't know what you mean--I don't know any men--Ihave never seen any!"

"But he was at that window--there. "

"Well, what does that prove?" she retorted. "Does that concern me? Can Iprevent people from coming to their windows?"

"No, but when they are there you might prevent yourself from makingsigns to them; and especially from returning the kisses they send toyou. "

"Signs, I? I made signs!" she exclaimed. "Ah! that is really too bad!Who do you take me for then?"

"Why, I surprised you, and I stayed your hand when you had your fingersraised to your lips. "

"Well, can't I put my fingers to my lips now? What, am I not to have theright to make a gesture, without accounting for it, without beinginsulted? Did any one ever see a woman treated in such an odiousfashion? Well, tie me up then!"

You are acquainted with women's tactics, my dear Louis: they are alwaysthe same in such cases. I put a stop to it all after letting her denythe facts. 

"Come, come, " I said to her. "This is not the time for you to play thepart of a persecuted victim. For the last half hour I have been watchingyou from behind those curtains. I saw everything--with my opera-glass, "I added, showing her the glass in proof of my assertion. 

Struck by this victorious demonstration she stood there inconsternation. For a moment I enjoyed the effect I had produced and thencontinued:

"I saw the letter which he showed you, and the one which you have inyour pocket--I can still see a bit of it peeping out. "

On hearing this she became very red; and with incredible swiftness drewforth the incriminating missive, which she tore into a hundred pieces. 

"All right, " said I. "It would seem then that you had written somethingvery compromising to that soldier, whom you have never met and whom youdon't know. "

"It was a letter for the modiste, " she replied with assumed indignation. 

"Yes, and you no doubt wanted him to deliver it, " I retorted in anironical strain. 

This last bitter dart went home and set her beside herself. She assumeda superb attitude. 

"I shall not give you any explanation, " she said. "Believe whatever youplease. Do whatever you choose. As for myself, I know what I have to donow. Since I am spied upon and treated in this fashion I have had enoughof leading such a life--I prefer to put an end to it at once!"

"And how do you purpose putting an end to it?" I resumed. "It willperhaps be necessary to consult me a little bit on that subject. "

"But you are neither my husband nor my brother, my dear fellow, " sheexclaimed in the most airy way imaginable, "and I don't suppose that youare going to talk to me any more of those stupid Turkish rights. We arein Paris and I know that I am free!"

"Well, where will your freedom take you?"

"Oh! don't worry yourself about me--I should not have any trouble tosecure a husband. Do you imagine, my dear fellow, that I should beembarrassed to find a _position_?"

This characteristic word showed me that she was far more completelyinitiated than I had suspected. 

"And you expect, " I retorted, "to obtain this _position_ from that finenobleman, eh?"

These disdainful words exasperated her; she lost all self-restraint andburnt her ships. 

"That fine nobleman is a duke!" she exclaimed vehemently. "I will notallow you to insult him. And since you dare to threaten me, I will tellyou that I love him and that he adores me, and that he offers to marryme and promises me every bliss--"

In spite of my misfortune I could not help laughing at this fieryindignant declaration to which Zouhra's Turkish accent imparted anirresistibly comic effect. My gaiety brought her anger to a climax. 

Frenzied, decided upon everything, she darted to a chiffonier, drew outan illuminated card, upon which two doves were pecking one another, andthrew it at me with a queenly air, exclaiming:

"There, my dear fellow you will see if I still have any need of you!"

I picked up the card and read what was written upon it:

 LEDUC (D'ARPAJON), _Drum-Major of the 79th Regt. Of the Line. _

 _To the divine ZOUHRA--Everlasting Love!_

It would be useless for me to describe to you the end of the scene. 

When I had laughed enough, I allowed myself the delightful pleasure ofundeceiving my faithless houri by explaining to her her unfortunatemistake as to the rank of her conqueror, whom she had mentally endowedwith a fortune in keeping with the height of his plume. [A] I destroyedher dream of every bliss by reducing it to so much bliss as wasprocurable with a full pay of a franc and a half _per diem_. 

 [Footnote A: Zouhra with her imperfect knowledge of French had concluded that Leduc (D'Arpajon) meant "the Duke of Arpajon"--whereas, in reality, Leduc, a single word, was the drum-major's name; D'Arpajon implying that he came from, or belonged to, the little market town of Arpajon, not far from Paris. --_Trans. _]

As I made these crushing revelations you might have seen her graduallysinking and collapsing, with her pretty purple lips just parted, and hergazelle's eyes staring with frightened astonishment. She was the pictureof consternation. 

All at once she darted towards me and abruptly caught me in her arms. 

"Ah! it is you that I love!--you that I love!" she exclaimed in apathetic tone amid her transports. 

I had some difficulty in releasing myself from her passionate embrace;still I eventually succeeded in doing so, but only to confront a freshcrisis of despair, whereupon I immediately confided Zouhra to the careof her maids. 

Then, without any further explanations, which would have beensuperfluous, I withdrew. 

Of course I am perfectly aware that you will try to derive from thismishap some argument intended to triumph over my discomfiture. 

I would have you remark, however, that you have no right to seize upon ageneral fact--for infidelity is inherent in woman's nature--and drawdeductions respecting my particular case. All that you can reasonablyconclude is that the man who has four wives is bound to be deceived fourtimes as often as the man who has but one wife. 

That is certainly a weighty argument, I confess. 

However all that may be, my misfortune having been made evident to me, and Zouhra being banished from my heart, it was necessary that I shouldcome to a decision with regard to her. 

The most simple course was to consult my uncle; his own experience in asimilar mishap pointed him out as the best of advisers. 

He listened to me, stroking his beard with the somewhat derisive phlegmof a practical man, who is not sorry to find that he has some companionsin misfortune. It even seemed to me that I could detect a touch ofmalicious satisfaction, as if he still resented my conduct as an heir. 

When I had finished he quietly remarked:

"What an old stupid you are! You should have let her get married withoutsaying anything! In that way you would have saved us the expense ofsending her back home again. "

"Well, unfortunately it's too late now for that, uncle, " I answered. 

To be brief, as the Turkish law does not allow the desertion ordismissal of a cadine unless she be provided for, Zouhra is to be exiledto Rhodes. The pasha has established there for his own use, a kind ofBotany Bay, which is a place both of retirement and rustication for hisinvalided wives who have lost their freshness with age. The place is anold abbey with spacious gardens planted with mimosas and orange trees, and was purchased by auction for some ten thousand francs. The island isdelightful, and provisions are to be had there for nothing, according towhat my uncle tells me. Judge for yourself: fowls cost twopence each, and everything else is to be had at correspondingly low prices. Thereare already eleven women there, and it does not cost more than ninethousand francs a year to keep them all on a proper footing, includingthe board and wages of their servants. 

Find me among our own boasted institutions any one to be compared withthat of my uncle--an institution established to provide for similarcontingencies, and the arrangements of which are equally good. 

[Illustration: ]

[Illustration: ]

CHAPTER XV. 

For the last three days that unworthy girl Zouhra has been on her way toRhodes. 

Well, what does that matter? I admit that I have only three wives left, that's all. And what of that? Is it fitting that you, my dearest friend, should try to make me feel ashamed of it?

While exercising your facetiousness, it seems to me that you especiallylevel your irony at certain other worries necessarily occasioned by theposition of Kondjé-Gul and what you call the wooing of the "fierceKiusko. " Ye Gods! so I have a rival. Really, you make me laugh!

I fancy, however, that all this will inevitably end in a duel betweenus, which indeed, as time goes on, seems to me quite unavoidable. 

One evening when I arrived rather late at Téral House by reason of oneof those tedious dinners with which Anna Campbell's leaves-out werecelebrated, I found Kondjé-Gul quite downcast, and her eyes red withcrying. I had left her a few hours before in the best of spirits, anddelighted about a pretty little pony which I had given her in themorning, and which we had been trying. Surprised and alarmed at such asudden grief as she evinced, and which had caused her to shed tears, Ianxiously questioned her about it. 

Directly I began speaking to her I saw that she wanted to conceal fromme the cause of her affliction: but I pressed her. 

"No, it's nothing, " she said, "only a story which mamma told me. "

But when she tried to smile, a sob broke out from her lips, and, bursting into tears, she threw her arm round my neck, nestling her headon my bosom. 

"Good heavens! what's the matter, dear?" I exclaimed, quite alarmed. "Tell me all about it, I entreat you. What has happened? And why are youcrying like this?"

She could not answer me. Her bosom heaved, and she seized my hand andcovered it with kisses, as if in order to demonstrate her love for me inthe midst of her distress. 

I succeeded in calming her; and then, making her sit down by my side, with her hands in mine, I pressed her to confess her troubles to me. Herhesitation increased my alarm: she turned her eyes away from me, and Icould see that she feared to reply to me. At last, quite frantic withanxiety, I resorted to my marital authority. 

Then, with childlike submission, she related to me the following strangestory, which filled me with astonishment. 

After luncheon her mother had joined her in the drawing-room, when inthe course of a general conversation she began to speak about theirnative country and their family, and about the pleasure it would be forthem to revisit them after so long an absence. Kondjé-Gul let her go onin this strain, thinking that she was just indulging in one of thosedreams of a far-off future which the imagination is fond of cherishing, however impossible their realisation may be. But soon she was very muchsurprised by noticing that her mother was discussing this scheme as onewhich might be carried out at an early date. She then questioned herabout it. At last, after a lot of fencing, Madame Murrah informed herthat she had learnt a marriage was arranged between me and AnnaCampbell, who had been betrothed to me for a long while past; also thatthis marriage would take place in six months' time, and that I shouldhave to go away with my wife the day after the wedding. 

The end of all these arrangements would be the abandonment ofKondjé-Gul. 

I was dismayed by this unexpected revelation. The plan of my marriagewith Anna had remained a family secret, known only to my uncle, toherself, to my aunt, and to me. How had it got to Madame Murrah's ears?I was unable to conceal my uneasiness. 

"But this marriage is true then?" continued my poor Kondjé with ananxious look in my face. 

"Nothing is true but our love!" I replied, distressed by her fears;"nothing is true but this, that I mean to love you always, and always tolive with you as I do now. "

"But this marriage?" she again repeated. 

It was impossible for me to escape any longer from the necessity ofmaking a confession which I had intended to have prepared her for lateron. 

"Listen, my darling, " I said, taking her by the hands, "and above allthings trust me as you listen to me! I love you, I love no one but you;you are my wife, my happiness, my life. Do you believe me?"

"Yes, dear, I believe you. But what about her?" she added in a tremble. "What about Anna Campbell? Are you going to marry her?"

"Come, " I said, wishing to begin by soothing her fears; "if, as so oftenhappens in your own country, I were obliged, if only in order to assureour own happiness, to make another marriage, would not you understandthat this was only a sacrifice which I owed to my uncle if he requiredit of me--a family arrangement, in fact, which could not separate usfrom each other? What have you to fear so long as I only love you? Didyou trouble yourself about Hadidjé or Zouhra?"

"Oh, but they were not Christians! Anna Campbell would be your realwife; and your religion and laws would enjoin you to love her. "

"No, " I exclaimed, "neither my religion nor my laws could change myheart or undo my love for you. It is my duty to protect your life andmake it a happy one; for are not you also my wife? Why should you alarmyourself about an obligation of mine which, if we lived in your country, would not disturb your confidence in me? Anna Campbell is not really inlove with me: we are only like two friends, prepared to unite with eachother in a conventional union, such as you may see many a couple aroundus enter upon--an association of fortunes, in which the only personalsentiments demanded are reciprocal esteem. My dear girl, what is thereto be jealous of? Don't you know that you will always be everything tome?"

Poor Kondjé-Gul listened to these somewhat strange projects without theleast idea of opposing them. Still under the yoke of her native ideas, those Oriental prejudices in which she had been brought up were toodeeply grafted in her mind to permit of her being rapidly converted byacquaintance with our sentiments and usages--very illogical as theyoften appeared to her mind--to a different view of woman's destiny. According to her laws and her religion, I was her master. She couldnever have entertained the possibility of her refusing to submit to mywill; but I could see by the tears in her eyes that this very touchingsubmission and resignation on her part was simply due to her devotedself-control, and that she suffered cruelly by it. 

"Come, why do you keep on crying?" I continued, drawing her into myarms. "Do you doubt my love, dear?"

"Oh, no!" she replied quickly. "How could I mistrust you?"

"Well, then, away with those tears!"

"Yes, " she said, giving me a kiss, "you are right, dear: I am verysilly! What can you expect of me? I am still half a barbarian, and amrather bewildered with all I have learnt from you. There are still somethings in my nature which I can't understand. Why it is that I feel morejealous of Anna Campbell than I was of Hadidjé, of Nazli, or of Zouhra, I can't tell you; but I am afraid--she is a Christian, and perhaps youwill love her better than me. I feel that the laws and customs of yourcountry will recover their hold over you and will separate us. Thatodious law which you once told me of, which would enfranchise me, so yousaid, and make me my own mistress if I desired to leave you, often comesback to my mind like a bad dream. It seems to me that this imaginaryliberty, which I don't want at any price, would become a reality if youget married. "

I reassured her on this point. There is a much more persuasive eloquencein the heart than in the vain deductions of logic. During thisextraordinary scene, in which my poor Kondjé-Gul's mind was alarmed bythe conflict going on between her own beliefs and what she knew of oursociety, I was quite sincere in my illusions concerning the moralcompromise which, I fancied, was imposed upon me as an absolute duty. Singular as it may all appear to you, I had already been subjected toolong to the influence of the harem not to have become graduallypermeated by the Oriental ideas. The tie which bound me to Kondjé-Gulhad acquired a kind of sacred and legitimate character in my eyes. 

However this may have been, her revelation disclosed an impendingdanger. It was clear to me that the news of the marriage arrangedbetween Anna Campbell and myself could only have reached Madame Murrahthrough Kiusko. His relationship with my aunt had made him a member ofour family, and he had been acquainted with our projects. I could easilyunderstand that his jealous instincts had penetrated one side of thesecret between Kondjé and myself. He had at least guessed that she lovedme, and that I was an obstacle to the attainment of his desires. He wasfollowing up his object. He wished to destroy Kondjé-Gul's hopes inadvance, by showing her that I was engaged to marry another. 

With my present certitude of his mean devices, I began to wonder whethereverything had been already let out through slips of the tongue made byMadame Murrah, in the course of those interviews which he had obtainedwith her either by chance or by appointment. For several days past Ifancied I had remarked in him an increased reserve of manner. It waspossible that, being convinced now of the futility of his hopes, hisonly object henceforth was to revenge himself on his rival by at leastdisturbing his feeling of security. 

Yes! you are quite right: I love her! Why should you imagine I wouldwish to deny it, or dissemble it as a weakness? Did I ever tell you thatthe consequence of indulgence in the pleasures of harem loves would beto drown the heart, the soul, and the aspirations towards the ideal forthe sole advantage of the senses? Where you seem to see the defeat ofone vanquished, I find the triumph of my happiness and the enchantmentof a dream which I am realizing during my waking hours. Compare withthis secret and charming bond of union which attaches me to Kondjé-Gul, the prosaic and vulgar character of those common intrigues which onecynically permits the whole world to observe, or of those illicitconnections which the hypocritical remnant of virtue with us constrainsus to conceal, like crimes, in the darkness. Deceptive frenzies theyare, the enjoyment of which always involves of necessity the degradationof the woman and the contempt of the lover! You may preach and dogmatiseas much as you like in your endeavours to uphold the superiority of ourhabits over those of the East, which you declare to be barbarous; youwill never succeed in doing anything more than entangling yourself inyour own paradox. 

The fact is that in the refined epoch, so-called, in which we live, every description of non-legitimized union in love becomes alibertinage, and the woman who abandons herself to it becomes a profaneidol. Whether she be a duchess, or a foolish maid, you may write versesover her fall, but you cannot forget it. The worm is in the fruit. Mylove for Kondjé-Gul knows no such shame, and needs no guilty excuses. Proud of her slavish submission, she can love me without derogating inthe least from her own self-respect. In Kondjé's eyes, her tenderembraces are legitimate, her glory is the conquest of my heart. I am hermaster, and she abandons herself to me without transgressing any duty. Being a daughter of Asia, she fulfils her destiny according to the moralusages and the beliefs of her native land: to these she remains faithfulin loving me: her religion has no different rule, her virtue nodifferent law. 

That is why I love her, and why my heart is possessed by such a frankand open loyalty towards her. You speak to me about the future, and askme what will happen when the time comes for my marriage to AnnaCampbell? Well, the future is still in the distance, my dear fellow;when it comes upon me we will see what I will do! Meanwhile I love andcontent myself with loving!

Will that satisfy you? Oh yes, I confess my errors, I abjure my paganvanities, and my sultanic principles. I give up Mahomet! I have found myDamascus road. True love has manifested itself to me in all its glory, shining through the clouds; it has inspired me with its grace, and myfalse idols lie prostrate in the dust----Would you like me to make you apresent of my harem? If this offer suits you, send me a line, and I willforward what remains of it to you with all despatch: you shall then giveit my news, for it is six weeks now since I have seen my two sultanas. Only make haste--in eight days' time they are to return toConstantinople. The blessings of civilization are decidedly banes tothese little animals. Liberty in Paris would soon ruin them. I haveprovided for them, and am sending them away. 

I mention all this to show you in what happiness I bask. Reassured by myaffection, and confident in the future, my Kondjé-Gul has recovered thatsweet serenity which makes our love such a delicious dream. As thefierce Kiusko is now unmasked, we laugh at his foolish plots as you maywell imagine!

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER XVI. 

My aunt Gretchen van Cloth is in Paris!

Well, why do you assume your facetious tone on reading that? I know youand can guess your thoughts. 

After all, Barbassou is a pasha, is it still necessary to remind you ofthat?

Well, the other day my uncle informed me that he would take me home todine with him. I repaired to the boulevard at the appointed hour and westarted in his brougham for Passy. On the way he told me what it wasnecessary I should know. We reached a rather nice looking house in theRue Raynouard, from which you can see the boats floating down theSeine. There is a railing and a little garden in front. On hearing ourfootsteps, a young lady whom I at once recognised, from therecollections of my childhood, hurried to the door. 

"Kiss your aunt, " my uncle said to me: and I did as I was told. 

We then entered a modest little drawing-room, the commonplace aspect ofwhich, reminding one of furnished apartments, was improved by itsgeneral neatness and by a few bunches of flowers displayed in sundry oddvases. Three youngsters, the smallest of whom was between three and fouryears old, were eating bread and butter there. My uncle saluted each ofthem with a hurried kiss, and then they ran off to their nurse. 

My aunt Gretchen is just reaching her thirty-fourth birthday. Sheconfesses to her age. If she did not come from Amsterdam she ought tohave been born there. She has blossomed like a flower among the tulips, and she looks like a Rubens, in that painter's more sober style, as inthe portrait of the Friesland woman, with the prim pink and white fleshof the healthful natures of the North. You realise that good blood flowsquietly and temperately beneath the pleasantly plump charms of thisworthy Dutchwoman, who claims only her due, but is desirous of gettingit. And she does get it. She has luxuriant light chestnut hair, and avery attractive face with the smiling, placid, and even somewhat simpleexpression of a good housewife, who is as expert in bringing up herchildren as in making pastry and pineapple jam. Being of a gay andamiable disposition, she greeted her husband with the ordinary, heartyaffection of a woman who has never been a widow. After bringing him hisfoxskin cap she established him in a comfortable arm-chair, and thenmixed his absinthe for him. I guessed that the captain was returning toold habits, with the dignified composure which he displays ineverything. 

They began to talk in Dutch, and as I looked at them withoutunderstanding it, my uncle said to me:

"Your aunt tells me that her kitchen range is too small to make any good_soufflés_, and it worries her on your account. "

"Oh! my aunt is too kind to disturb herself about such a triflingmatter, " I replied; "the pleasure I feel in seeing her again amplycompensates me for this slight mishap. "

"Well, instead of the _soufflés_ you shall have some _wafelen_ and some_poffertjes_!" quickly rejoined my aunt with her kindly smile. 

I remarked that she spoke French much better than formerly. However, probably on account of her voyages with the captain, who recruited hiscrews at Toulon, her Dutch accent has now become a Provençal one. 

The dinner was delightful, substantial and plentiful, like the charms ofmy aunt, who was victorious along the whole line, and notably with thespicy sauce of a _gebakken schol_, which was excellently baked. 

The conversation was simple and of a free and easy character, my uncletalking with all the freedom of a man who has a quiet conscience. He wasas much at his ease in his Dutch household as any good citizen couldbe, and I perceived that my aunt knew absolutely nothing about him, unless it were the important position that he occupied in the spicetrade. She gave him some news about the great doings of the Van Huttenfirm of Rotterdam and Antwerp, in which he seemed to take a particularinterest. It seems, too, that Peter van Schloss, junior, is married to ayoung lady of Dordrecht, who presented him with twins after six monthsof matrimony, a circumstance which my uncle found very natural. OldJoshua Schlittermans, having been utterly ruined by the failure ofGannton Brothers of New York, has now taken to drink. 

When the coffee was served (Dirkie had brought it from Amsterdam, purchasing it on the Damplaatz, at the corner of Kalver Straat), my auntfilled a long porcelain pipe which my uncle took from her hands andlighted, puffing out clouds of smoke, with the serene gravity of someworthy burgomaster at home. We drank some schiedam and two sorts of drycuraçoa. While my aunt sat knitting at the table she questioned me as tomy occupations, asking me if I were working in my uncle's establishment;and upon my replying affirmatively to her, she gave me some very goodadvice, telling me to be very industrious so that I might take myuncle's place later on. 

At half-past ten we rose from table and went into the drawing-room. Dirkie got everything ready for a game of dominoes, and they began toplay in the Dutch fashion. My uncle kept the markers, and noted thepoints made: he himself speedily scored between three and four hundred, and then, feeling satisfied with his success, he said:

"Well, give us a little music!"

My aunt did not require any pressing, but went to the piano in a verygood-humoured manner. She opened the top so that the instrument mightgive out a louder sound, then passed behind and arranged everything; andsuddenly I heard the splendid introduction of Haydn's seventh symphonyin _F major_ bursting forth, while my aunt turned the handle with rareskill and gracefulness. (I recognised the superb instrument mentioned inthe fourth legacy of the famous will. )

I must admit that if my aunt played the minuet rather quickly, sheexecuted the _andante_ in a very delicate style, and the _scherzo_ andthe _finale_ were both dashed off in a spirited way. At the last chord, I applauded with sincere enthusiasm. 

"She plays very well, doesn't she?" my uncle quietly asked me, in amodest tone. "You, who are a connoisseur--"

"Oh! she plays perfectly, " I rejoined, without stinting my praise. 

"And besides she puts expression into it, " he resumed. "One can see thatshe feels what she plays. "

My aunt kissed him for this compliment, which he paid her with thegravest assurance. 

"Ah! you are still a flatterer!" she said to him. 

As may readily be guessed, some of Strauss's waltzes and two or threepolkas followed the classical symphonies, together with the overtures of"Don Giovanni" and "Fra Diavolo. " It was really a perfect concert tillmidnight. But by that time my aunt's plump arm being somewhat tired itwas necessary to bring the entertainment to a close. 

Now, my dear fellow, I am not one of those who give way to the stupidprejudices of our foolish traditions; still less am I one of those whoseek to evade frivolous objections, or fight shy of plain and opendiscussion. I have myself officially abandoned polygamy, that istrue--but you are meditating another attack upon my uncle--I see it andI feel it--and from the depths of your troglodytic intellect you intendto drag out some commonplace hackneyed argument accompanied by frivoloussarcasms, and directed, not at the point in question, but all round it. As you are even incapable of understanding your own so-called virtue inits true and primitive sense, you will no doubt repeat your usual stupidremarks, denouncing my uncle's conduct as scandalous. 

Let us go straight to the moral point, without haggling over words. Myuncle, who has the advantage of being a Turk, distributes himselfbetween his two wives, like a worthy husband faithful to his duty. Doyou presume to blame him? In that case what have you to say to ourfriends A. B. C. D. E. F. (I spare you the rest of the alphabet, and itis understood that the reader and present company are excepted), ourfriends, I say, who deceive their wives for the sake of hussies who haveseveral protectors, as they are well aware? It is not a question here offighting on behalf of the holy shrine of monogamy. With how manyfaithful, irreproachable husbands are you acquainted? Those hussies aremistresses, you will say to me! I know it: that is to say, they arefemales who belong to everybody. The question is settled: my uncle is avirtuous man by the side of our friends. As he is incapable of suchvulgar and promiscuous intrigues he has a supplementary household, thatis all! Like the prudent traveller who is acquainted with the length ofthe journey he judiciously prepares relays. 

Compare that family gathering at my aunt Van Cloth's with thoseunhealthy stolen pleasures of debauched husbands who feel ashamed andtremble with the fear of being surprised. My uncle is a patriarch andtakes no part in the licentiousness of our times. So much for thissubject. 

I have just received a most unforeseen blow, my dear Louis, and evenwhile I write have scarcely recovered from the alarm of a horriblemachination from which we were only saved by a miracle. 

I told you about my poor Kondjé-Gul's passing grief on account of hermother's foolish ideas. Reassured as to the future by my vows andpromises, she was too amenable to my influence to refuse to submit to atrial which I was forced by duty to prepare her for. Proud at thethought that she was sacrificing her jealousy for me, sacrificingherself for my happiness, her tears having been dried up by my kisses, Ifound her the day after this cruel blow to her heart as expansive andconfiding as if no cloud had darkened our sky. 

But a very few days after I was quite surprised to observe a sort ofmelancholy resignation about her. I attributed this trouble to some ofthe childish worries which her mother's temper occasionally gave her. However, after several days had passed like this, I came to theconclusion that the cause of her sadness must be something more than atransitory one, and that she was harassed by some new grief which evenmy presence was not sufficient to dissipate. By her replies to me, whichseemed to be pervaded by more than usual tenderness, I judged that--inher fear of alarming me, no doubt, --she wished to conceal from me thereal cause of her anxiety. 

One evening at one of our little parties at the Montagues, which hadbegun as a concert, but was converted by us, in our gay and sociablemood, into a dance, Maud had trotted me off to make up a quadrille. Kondjé-Gul, who, as you know, never dances, had withdrawn into theboudoir adjoining the drawing-room, where she was looking through thealbums. I suspected nothing, and was engaged in a frivolous conversationwith Maud, when from where I stood, through the glass partition whichseparated the two rooms, I noticed Kiusko come and sit down by her side. It was natural enough that, seeing her alone, he considered himselfbound not to leave her so, for that might have looked like a want ofpoliteness on his part. It seemed to me, moreover, from their faces, that their conversation was upon indifferent topics, and was beingconducted in that tone of ordinary friendliness which was usual betweenthem. 

He was turning over the pages of an album as he talked to her. I had noreason to pay much attention to this _tête-à-tête_, and was not evenintending to follow it, but once, near the end of the quadrille, my eyesbeing again turned by chance in Kondjé-Gul's direction, I saw her riseup all of a sudden, as if something that Daniel had said had excited hersuddenly. I thought I saw her blush, raising her head proudly andanswering him in an offended tone. 

The dance being now over, I left Maud, and, agitated by an anxious kindof feeling, walked up to the boudoir. They were standing up, andKiusko's back being turned to the door, he did not see me enter. Kondjé-Gul saw me and said:

"André, come and give me your arm!"

At this unusually bold request, Daniel could not repress a gesture ofastonishment, and cast a bewildered glance at me. I advanced, and sheseized my arm with a convulsive movement, and addressed herself to myrival:

"This is the second time, sir, that you have declared your love to me. Let me tell you why I decline it: I am the slave of Monsieur André dePeyrade, and I love him!"

If a thunderbolt had fallen at Daniel's feet, it could not have startledhim more than this. He turned so pale that I thought he was going tofaint. He gazed at both of us with a desperate and ferocious look, as ifsome terrible thought was revolving in his mind. His features werecontracted into such a savage expression that I instinctively placedmyself between him and Kondjé-Gul. But, all at once, frightened no doubtat his own passion, he gave one glance of despair and rage, and fledfrom the room. Kondjé-Gul was all of a tremble. 

"What has happened, then?" I asked her. 

"I will tell you all about it, " she answered, in a voice still quiveringwith emotion. "I am going home with my mother. Come after us as soon aswe are off. "

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER XVII. 

Half an hour later I joined Kondjé-Gul again at her house. She had sentFanny out of the room, and was waiting for me. When she saw me, shethrew her arm round my neck, and the long pent-up tears seemed to startfrom her eyes like a fountain. 

"Good heavens!" I exclaimed, "what is it, then?"

And taking her on my knees like a child, I held her in my arms; but shesoon recovered her energy. 

"Listen, dear, " she said in a firm voice, "you must forgive me for whatI have just done: you must forgive me for having concealed my thoughtsand my troubles from you, even at the risk of distressing you. "

"I forgive you, everything, " I answered immediately, "go on, tell mequickly. "

"Well, then! For a whole week I have been deceiving you, " she continued, "by telling you that I had no troubles, and that I did not know thecause of that sadness which I could not conceal from you. I was afraidof making you angry with my mother, by confessing to you that it was shewho was tormenting me. "

"Your mother!" I exclaimed: "and what had she to say to you, then?"

"You shall hear all, " she said, with animation, "for I must justifymyself for having kept a secret from you. I daresay you remember, " shecontinued, "that a fortnight ago she spoke to me about your marriage, telling me that you were going to leave me. "

"Yes, yes, I understand, " I said. "What then?"

"My mother had made me promise to keep this revelation a secret, becauseit was necessary, so she said, that Count Kiusko should not suspect thatwe loved each other. She said that he had expressly attributed myrefusal to become his wife to some hope which I doubtless entertained ofmarrying you. "

"Well, go on; tell me what has occurred since. "

"You know the state of trouble you found me in that night. I could nothold back my tears, and you commanded me to tell you all. At last youreassured me with so much warmth of feeling, that after that I did notbelieve anyone but you. Quite happy at the thought of sacrificing myselfto your will, and to your peace of mind, I left off thinking about myalarms, and regretted them as an insult to our love; I repeated to mymother all your kind promises, and thought that I had set her mind atrest. Imagine my astonishment at hearing her, a few days afterwards, return to the subject: she had seen the count again, who had declaredthat your uncle would disinherit you if you did not carry out hiswishes. "

"And did you believe all that?"

"No, " she replied promptly, "for you had not told me so! But then mymother, seeing that I would only believe you, changed her tactics: shespoke about Count Kiusko, his wealth, and his love for me. "

"She did that, did she?"

"Oh, forgive her!" she continued; "she gets anxious both on my accountand her own. She is alarmed about the future, and fancies she sees medeserted by you! Well, it was simply a cruel struggle for me, in whichmy heart could not betray you. I suffered through it, and that's all!But three days ago, I don't know what can have passed during your aunt'sparty, my mother, on our way home, said to me in a decided manner thatshe had resolved 'to live no longer among the infidels, ' and intended'to return to the land of the Faithful, in order to expiate the greatwrong she had committed by living here. '

"I was dismayed at this resolution of hers. As she based it upon ourfaith, I could not oppose her, for that would have been a sacrilege, butI could at least invoke her affection for me, and entreat her not toleave. Then, while I was on my knees before her, and was kissing her andcrying, she startled me by saying: 'You shall not leave me; for, when Igo, I shall take you away with me'!"

"Why, she must be crazy!" I exclaimed. 

"Well, dear, " added Kondjé-Gul, "you can easily understand what athunderbolt this was to me! I felt it so painfully that I nearly swoonedaway. My mother was alarmed and called for Fanny. The next day, Iattempted to prevail upon her to change her mind, declaring that itwould kill me to be separated from you. I thought I had mollified her, for she kissed me and said that all she cared about was my happiness. But this evening, while we were in the carriage on our way toSuzannah's, she spoke again to me about Count Kiusko. I have apresentiment that the greatest enemy to our love and happiness is thatman; and that he it is who has been influencing my mother, hoping, nodoubt, that when separated from you I should no longer be able to resisther wishes. 

"Well, you know the rest, I had gone into the boudoir while you weredancing, when the count came and sat down by my side. --'Is it true thatyou are going away?' he said to me, after a minute or so. 'Who couldmake you believe such a thing?' I replied coldly. 'Why, something yourmother told me which seemed to imply it. ' I remained silent--he did notventure to follow up the subject, and said nothing more for a fewminutes. I kept my eyes on a book which I was looking through, for Ifelt that his eyes were fixed upon me. 'Perhaps you will regret André alittle, ' he continued, 'but what can you do? He is not free, --andbesides, do you suppose he would have loved you?'

"At this question, the cruel irony of which wounded me to the quick, Iwas possessed by some mad impulse, I raised my head and replied to himin such a scornful tone that he rose up in confusion. Just then you camein. I wished to overwhelm him with my contempt so as to destroy allfurther hopes he might cherish. You know what I said--"

"And quite right, too! For it was necessary to put a stop to hisnonsense. I will attend to it. "

"But what if my mother wants to separate us?"

"Your mother, indeed!" I exclaimed; "your mother who sold you, abandonedyou to the life of a slave, do you think she can come and claim therights which she has thrown away?"

"Can you defend me against her, then?"

"Yes, dear, I will defend you, " I exclaimed in a passion, "and now setyour mind at ease. There is a miserable plot at the bottom of all this, which I intend demolishing. When I leave you I am going to Count Kiusko, and I assure you that he sha'n't trouble you any more: after that Ishall see your mother. "

"Good heavens!" said Kondjé-Gul, "are you going to fight him?"

"No, no, " I answered with a laugh, in order to remove her fears; "butyou must understand that it is necessary for me to have an explanationwith him. "

In the morning I returned home and arranged all my affairs ready for anyeventuality; then when all was in order I went after two of my friends, and asked them to hold themselves ready to act as my seconds in anaffair which I might be compelled by grave circumstances to settle thatvery day. Having obtained their promise to do so, I proceeded toKiusko's in the Rue de l'Elysée. 

When I arrived at his house, I saw from the windows being open that hewas up. A footman, who knew me, was standing under the peristyle. Hetold me that he did not think his master would see anyone then. I gavehim my card and instructed him to send it up at once to the count. In aminute or two after he returned and asked me to come up to his master'sprivate room: he showed me into a little smoking-room adjoining thebedroom, to which the count's intimate friends only are admitted. I hadhardly entered it when Daniel appeared; he was dressed in a Moldaviancostume which he uses as a dressing-gown. 

"Hullo, here's our dear friend André!" he said when he saw me, in suchan indifferent tone that I could detect in it the intentionalaffectation of a calmness to which his pale countenance gave the lie. 

Still he did not hold out his hand to me, nor did I proffer mine; he satdown, indicating to me an arm-chair on the other side of the fire-place. 

"What good fortune has brought you here so early this morning?" hecontinued, taking a few puffs at his cigar. 

"Why, I should have thought you expected to see me, " I replied, lookinghim straight in the face. 

He returned my look with a smile. 

"I expected you, without expecting you, as they say. "

By the peculiar tone in which he uttered these words, I could see thathe was determined to make me take the initiative in the matter uponwhich I had come. 

"Very well!" I said, wishing to show him that I guessed his mind. "Iwill explain myself. "

"I am all attention, my dear fellow, " he answered. 

"I have come to speak to you, " I continued drily, "about MademoiselleKondjé-Gul Murrah, and about what passed yesterday between her and you. "

"Ah, yes! I understand: you are referring to the somewhat severe lecturewhich I drew upon myself, and to the confidential communication she mademe. "

"Precisely so, " I added; "you could not sum up the two points betterthan you have done: a lecture, and a confidence. Now as one outcome ofthe second point is that I am responsible for all Mademoiselle Murrah'sacts, I have come to place myself at your command respecting the lectureshe thought fit to give you. "

"What nonsense, my dear fellow!" he exclaimed, puffing a cloud of smokeinto the air. "After all I only had what I deserved, for I can onlyblame my own presumption. Besides the very anger of such a charmingyoung lady is a favour to the man who incurs it, so that my only regretis that I offended her. I should therefore really laugh at myself tothink that I could hold you responsible for this little incident: nay, Iwill go so far as to say that, strictly speaking, I should owe you anapology for what you might be justified in complaining of as an act ofdisloyalty between friends, but for the fact that I can plead as myexcuse the complete ignorance in which you left me of certain mysteriousrelations. You must know very well that a simple word from you, myrelative, my _friend_, would have made me stop short on the brink of theprecipice. "

I appreciated the reproachful irony concealed in this last sentence; butI had gone too far to trouble myself about remorses of conscienceregarding him. 

"So then, " I replied, "you have nothing to say, no satisfaction todemand of me in respect to this lecture?"

"None whatever, my dear fellow!" he answered, in the same easy tonewhich he had preserved all along. "And I may add that there could benothing more ridiculous than a quarrel between two friends like you andme upon such a matter!"

"Let's think no more about it then!" I continued, imitating hiscomposure. "Since you take it so good-naturedly, I sha'n't press it. But, having settled this first point, it remains now for us to discusswhat you have termed the _confidence_. "

At this he could not repress a slight gesture. His dark eye flashed up, but for a moment only: he was soon quite calm again. 

"Ah, yes!" he said carelessly; "now we've come to the second point. "

"This is the point of importance for me, " I added; "and I am going toask you, on my side, what you propose to do after this revelation?"

"I must compliment you, my dear fellow, for upon my word it's a mostwonderful romance. Do you really mean to say that this beautiful younglady whom we have all been admiring from a distance, fascinated by hercharms, and who like a young queen has been starring it in the mostaristocratic drawing-rooms of your society, exciting enthusiastic praisewherever she goes, --that she is your slave?--You must admit that nomortal man could help envying you!"

"Do your compliments, " I continued, "imply an engagement, on your part, to abandon importunities, which you now recognise to be useless?"

"Oh, indeed!" he exclaimed, with a laugh; "so you're going to ask me nowto make _my_ confession?"

Exasperated by this imperturbable composure of his, which I could notbreak down, I again looked him straight in the face, and asked--

"Do you mean to say you refuse to understand me?"

"No, my good sir!" he answered, resuming his peculiar smile, "Iunderstand you perfectly well; you want to pick a quarrel with me, or toforce me to demand satisfaction from you for a matter to which I do notattach as much importance as you do. Between ourselves, a duel would bean act of folly. "

"Do you understand, at any rate, " I retorted, "that I forbid your everpresenting yourself before Mademoiselle Kondjé-Gul Murrah again?"

"Fie! my dear fellow! What do you take me for? After such an astonishingconfession on her part, I should prove myself deficient in the mostordinary discretion, if I did not henceforth spare her my presence; soyou may set your mind at ease on that point. "

"Do you also imply by this evasive answer that you will abandon certainplots with her mother, which I might describe in terms that would notplease you?"

"_Corbleu!_ I should be too heavily handicapped in such a game, you mustadmit. Nor do I think that the good lady would be of much service to me, from what I know of her. Moreover, " he added, "you have made me yourconfidences, as a friend, and, late though they arrive, I shall feelbound by them henceforth, if only on the ground of the mutualconsideration, which, in grave circumstances, relations owe to eachother. "

The idea, then, occurred to me of provoking him in another way; but Iclearly realised that, as he was playing such a perfidious part, itwould be dangerous for me to commit this imprudence. 

"Come, my dear Daniel, " I said, as I rose from my chair, "at any rate, Ican see that you have a very good-natured disposition. "

"Of course I have, " he replied; "and yet there are people who accuse meof evil designs. "

The most formidable perils are those which you feel darkly conscious of, without being able to discern either the enemy or the snare. Thisinterview with Kiusko left almost an impression of terror on my mind. Knowing him to be as brave as I did, I felt convinced that hisinsensibility to my insults could only be due to the calculated calm ofan implacable will, which was pursuing its object, whether of love, ofvengeance, or of hatred, with all the energy of desperation. 

Notwithstanding the humiliations he had undergone, I made sure that hehad by no means given up the game. He meant to have Kondjé-Gul, even ifhe had to capture her forcibly, and to carry her off as his prey. When Iconsidered his sinister calm, which seemed to be abiding itsopportunity, I wondered whether we were not already threatened by somesecret machinations on his part. 

Still I was not the man to be overcome by childish panics; so I soon gotover this transitory feeling of alarm. I knew that after all we were sounequally matched, that I need not seriously fear his success. Howeverdetermined Kiusko might be not to abandon the cowardly _rôle_ he hadassumed, I felt sure that an open affront at the club would compel himto fight. 

Feeling reassured by this consideration, I decided to be guided in myaction by the result of the interview which I was going to have withKondjé-Gul's mother. It was necessary for me to commence by putting astop to the foolish proceedings of this woman, who was perhaps actingunintentionally as Kiusko's accomplice in schemes the object of whichshe could not foresee. It was eleven o'clock, an hour at which I knew Ishould find her alone, while Kondjé-Gul was taking her lessons: I wentaccordingly to Téral House. 

When I arrived a carriage was coming in and drawing up under theportico. I saw Madame Murrah get out of it. She could not avoid showingsome annoyance on observing me. Rather surprised at her taking such anearly drive, I asked her to go into the drawing-room. She went therebefore me, and, seeing me take an arm-chair, she sat down on the divanin her usual indolent manner, and waited to hear what I had to say. 

The scene which I am now going to relate to you, my dear Louis, wascertainly, according to our ideas, a remarkable one. I tell it you justas it happened; but you must not forget that, for the Circassian woman, there was nothing in it which was out of conformity with her principlesand the ideas of her race. 

"I have come to talk with you, " I said, "upon a serious subject, theimportance of which perhaps you do not comprehend; for, withoutintending it, you are causing Kondjé-Gul a great deal of trouble. "

"How am I causing my daughter trouble?" she answered, as if she had beentrying to understand. 

"By continually telling her that I am going to leave her in order to getmarried, --by telling her that you wish to go away, and have even decidedto take her with you. She is of course alarmed by all these imaginaryanxieties. "

"If it is so decreed by Allah!" she said quietly, "who shall preventit?"

I had been expecting denials and subterfuges. This fatalistic utterance, without answering my reproaches, took me quite aback and made metremble. 

"But, " I replied in a severe tone, "Allah could not command you to bringunhappiness to your daughter. "

"As you are going to be married----"

"What matters my marriage?" I answered. "It cannot in any way affectKondjé-Gul's happiness! She knows that I love her, and that she willalways retain the first place in my affections. "

Madame Murrah shook her head for a minute in an undecided manner. Theargument which I had employed was a most simple one. 

At last she said: "Your wife will be an infidel; and, according to yourlaws, she will be entitled to demand my daughter's dismissal. "

Dumb-founded at hearing her raise such objections, when I had fanciedthat I only needed to express my commands, I gazed at her in completeastonishment. 

"But my wife will never know Kondjé-Gul!" I exclaimed. "She will live inher own home, and Kondjé-Gul will live here, so that nothing will bechanged so far as we are concerned. "

Upon this reasoning of mine, which I thought would seem decisive to her, the Circassian reflected for a moment as if embarrassed as to how sheshould answer me. But suddenly, just when I thought she was convinced, she said:

"All that you have said would be very true, if we were in Turkey; butyou know better than I do that in your country, your religion does notpermit you to have more than one wife. "

"But, " I exclaimed, more astounded than ever at her language, "do yousuppose, then, that Kondjé-Gul could ever doubt my honour or myfidelity?"

"My daughter is a child, and believes everything, " she continued. "But, for my own part, I have consulted a lawyer, and have been informed thataccording to your law she has become as free as a Frenchwoman, and haslost all her rights as _cadine_ which she would have enjoyed in ourcountry. Moreover I am informed that you can abandon her without herbeing able to claim any compensation from you. "

I was struck dumb by this bold language and the expression with which itwas accompanied. This was no longer the apathetic Oriental woman whoseobedience I thought I commanded like a master. I had before me anotherwoman whose expression was thoughtful and decided--I understood it all. 

"While informing you that your daughter is free, " I said, changing myown tone of voice, "this lawyer no doubt informed you also, that youcould marry her to Count Kiusko?"

"Oh, I knew that before!" she replied, smiling. 

"So you have been deceiving me these two months past, by leaving me tobelieve that you had answered him with a refusal?"

"It was certainly necessary to prevent you from telling him what he nowknows. --The silly girl told him everything yesterday. "

"How do you know that?"

I saw her face redden. 

"I know it. That's enough!" she replied defiantly. 

Feeling certain that Kondjé-Gul had not told her anything of theincident of the day before, I divined that she had just left Kiusko's, where she had been, no doubt, during our interview. 

"May I ask you, then, what you propose to do, now that Count Kiuskoknows everything?" I continued, controlling my anger. 

"I shall do what my daughter's happiness impels me to do. You cannotmarry her without being obliged to give up your uncle's fortune. IfCount Kiusko should persist in wishing to make her his wife, knowing allthe circumstances that he now does, you can understand that I, as hermother, could not but approve of a marriage which would assure her sucha rich future. "

At this I could no longer restrain myself, but exclaimed:

"Oh, indeed! Do you imagine I shall let you dispose of her like that, without defending her?"

"No, of course, I know all this. --And that's the very point upon which Iconsulted a counsel; but, according to what he has advised me, I shouldlike to ask what authority you can claim over my daughter? What rightscan you set up against mine?"

"Well, I should like to remind you also that I can ruin your comfortableexpectations by killing Count Kiusko, " I said, quite beside myself withrage. 

"If so it is written!" she rejoined in a calm voice. 

Exasperated by her fatalistic imperturbability, I felt moved by somefurious and violent impulse. I got up from my chair to calm myself. Icould see that for two months past I had been duped by this woman, whohad been pursuing with avidity a vision of unexpected fortune, and thatnothing could now divert her from this pursuit. I felt myself caught intheir abominable toils. 

Sitting motionless on her divan, with her hands folded over her knees, she regarded me in silence. 

"Well!" I said, coming close to her again, "I can see that your maternalsolicitude is all a question of money. For what sum will you sell meyour daughter a second time, and go back to live by yourself in theEast?"

She hesitated a moment, and then she said:

"I will tell you in a week's time. "

By her deceitful looks I judged that she still placed some hope inKiusko, and that she probably wished to wait until she could make sureabout it, one way or the other--but from motives of discretion I held mytongue, and took leave of her. 

[Illustration]

[Illustration]

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Events had succeeded each other with such strange rapidity since the daybefore, that I felt like one walking in a dream. First, Kondjé-Gul'srevelations of her mother's duplicity, then my discussion with Daniel, and now finally this cynical dialogue with the Circassian, in the courseof which she had just confessed her schemes quite openly; all thesethings had given such a succession of rude shocks to my spirit, whichhad been reposing until then in the tranquil assurance of undisturbedhappiness, that I had hardly found time to estimate the extent of mymisfortune. Overwhelmed with distress when I perceived the possibilityof losing Kondjé-Gul, I almost thought I should go mad. I made adesperate struggle against the despair which was taking possession of mymind. It was necessary for me to carry on the contest in order to defendmy very soul and life, yet I felt my soul slipping out of control. Likea mystic fascinated by his vision, I might have allowed myself to bedeluded by a vain mirage of security, for I had never imagined that myrights could be disputed. I had been living in the peaceful but foolishconfidence that I could obtain redress, when necessary, by the sword, for my rival's presumption. 

And now I had woke up in consternation at finding myself caught in thisstupid trap which I had permitted them to set in my path. Kondjé-Gul'smother had become Kiusko's accomplice. How was I to defeat thisconspiracy between two minds animated by consuming passions, resoluteand pitiless, who were determined not to be deterred by any scruples orany sense of honour? I could now see my weakness; I was paralysed anddefenceless against this wretched woman who, in order to constrain herdaughter and dispose of her future, had only to claim her legalauthority over her. She could take her from me, and carry her away. Onceback in Turkey, supported by the horrible laws of Islam, all she need dowas to sell her to Kiusko and thus give her up to him. 

My mind was struck by a sudden idea. Was it not the height of folly onmy part to give way to childish alarms, and to defer action until afterKiusko and the Circassian had matured their plans? Was it not possiblefor me to escape, carrying Kondjé-Gul off with me, and placing her outof reach of their pursuit?

As soon as this idea had taken possession of my mind, it fixed itselfthere, and soon developed into a resolution. I felt surprised that ithad not occurred to me earlier, and decided to put it into executionthat very day. I knew that Kondjé-Gul would follow me, for we had oftencherished the idea of taking a journey together alone, and I hadpromised her we would carry it out some day. In order to assure oursuccessful escape, I resolved to give her no notice beforehand, lest sheshould let it out to her mother. 

It was necessary, however, to provide for the consequences of thisdisappearance, and the gossip which would inevitably result inconnection with it. Well, after a good deal of hesitation, I confidedthe whole matter to my uncle. 

"You old stupid!" said he to me, "why, I have known all about yourlittle love-knot for the last six months!"

"What! do you mean to say you knew that Kondjé-Gul?--"

"Lord bless you! Don't you suppose that I heard enough from Mohammed tomake me keep my eyes open?"

After I had come to a complete understanding with my uncle, I made myown arrangements. I was expected to dinner at Kondjé's that day. I foundher quite sad; and on the pretext of giving her some distraction, Iordered the carriage at about half-past eight, as if for a drive to theBois. We started off. 

As soon as we were alone, she said to me:

"Good gracious, André! whatever has been passing between you and mymother? I am worried to death. She has been talking again to me about mydeparture with her, and Fanny believes that she is making herpreparations for it already. --She is going to carry me away. "

"All right, never mind her!" I answered with a laugh; "you're out ofdanger already. "

"How so?"

"I'm taking you away! You won't go back to the house, for we are off toFontainebleau, where we shall both of us remain in concealment, whilewatching events. "

Need I describe to you her joy? In the Champs Elysées we got out, as ifin order to walk, and I sent back the carriage. An hour after this, acab set us down at the railway station!

We spent a delightful week in the forest, playing truant. Fanny, who isa reliable girl, has joined us here. We really had a narrow escape; forit seems that Madame Murrah had, the very day we made our flight, goteverything planned for leaving the day after. When she found in themorning that Kondjé-Gul was gone, she nearly had a fit. Kiusko came tothe house, being sent for at once; all of which pretty clearlyindicates an understanding between them. The Circassian of course rushedafter me to the Rue de Varennes, noisily demanding her daughter. So myaunt got to know all about it! My uncle, whom I had taken into myconfidence, put them at once completely off the scent, by replying thatI had started for Spain. 

We are safe! Everything has been accomplished, as if by enchantment. Forfifteen days past my Kondjé-Gul has been settled in a charming cottageat Ermont, in the middle of the forest, hidden away like a daisy in afield of standing corn. She has disappeared from view, leaving no moretraces behind her than a bird in its flight through the air; and I amback in Paris, as if I had just returned from a journey. I have sentword to Madame Murrah that her daughter, having resolved to become aChristian, has taken refuge in a remote convent. You may picture toyourself her rage; but, as she is henceforth powerless, I fear her nomore. Being a foreigner, and in her precarious position, she cannotventure to charge me with abduction, and, as you may imagine, I am notlikely to let her take us by surprise. In order to get rid of her, Ihave offered to give her an annuity to live in Turkey, but she hasdeclined it. 

There can be no doubt that Kiusko guides her, and that they have by nomeans given up their game, but are ready to resort to any violence. Youmay be sure I keep a sharp eye on them, and am prepared for them. Thecontest, however, is too unequal for me to alarm myself very much. Myuncle, who never troubles himself much with legal scruples, telegraphedto a couple of his old sailors, Onésime and Rupert, to come up fromToulon: they were born on our Férouzat estate, and are, moreover, his"god-children. " They are ridiculously like him, except that one of themis two inches taller than the captain. Their godfather has installedthem at Ermont, and I don't mind betting that, with a couple ofstrapping fellows like them about the place, any attempt at carrying offKondjé-Gul in my absence would meet with a few trifling obstacles!

As to myself, I defy them to get on my scent. 

Being accustomed to taking morning rides, I could find my way to ourhappy cottage home by various routes, starting from opposite sides ofthe city. Once on the road, it was impossible to follow me, even at adistance; for I should soon recognize any one on horseback who appearedtoo inquisitive about my journey. Moreover, if these tactics failed, thepace at which Star goes would easily baffle any pertinacious pursuit. Ioften stay for two or three days at this delicious retreat. My uncledelights in coming there from time to time to take his madeira. 

In short, after the little adventures we have lately gone through, weare now leading a very pleasant existence. 

You can see what a simple matter it is. 

My famous system, you will tell me, has come to grief. Here I am, allforlorn, among the ruins of my harem, running my head againstimpossibilities opposed to our laws, morals, and conventionalities, withmy last sultana leaning on my arm; here I am, like some little St. John, [B] reduced to shady expedients in order to get a minute'sinterview with my mistress, imprisoned in her tower. I am tremblingbetween our caresses, you will say, lest a commissary of police shouldcome to cut the golden thread upon which my remaining blisses hang, andforce me by legal authority to give back Kondjé-Gul to her cruel mother. 

 [Footnote B: Referring to a familiar French nursery-legend similar to that of Santa Claus. --_Trans. _]

Well, my dear friend, I will answer you very briefly, I am in love! Yes, I am in love! These words are a reply, I think, to everything; althoughI must own that fear of the commissary, which certainly does threaten myfelicity, has considerably humbled my Oriental pride--I am in love! Ihave burnt my essay for the Academy. 

Well, then, I have abjured my polygamy. What more can I say to you?

To-day I must confide to you a most valuable discovery I have made; forI beg you to believe that love is not, as so many foolish peopleimagine, an extinguisher to the fire of the human intellect. On thecontrary, it stimulates the perceptions; and an enthusiastic lover, whois familiar with the elements of science, can extend therein his fieldof observations quite as easily as persons whose hearts are whole. 

As an example of this, then, I have just been realising the beauty of acharming phenomenon of nature--a most ordinary one, and yet one which sofar has remained, I think, completely unobserved. I refer to the spring!

As a great artist, you of course know, as well as any one in the world, that this is the season which leads from the winter to the summer; butwhat I feel sure you don't know is the full charm of this transitoryperiod, in which the whole forest awakens, in which the bushes sprout, and the young birds twitter in their nests!

According to Vauvenargues, "The first days of spring possess less charmthan the growing virtue of a young man. "

Well, it would ill befit me to depreciate the value of such an axiom, coming from the pen of such a great philosopher; still, and withoutwishing to disdain his politeness in so far as it is really flatteringto myself at this particular moment of my career, I do not hesitate toraise my voice after his, and assert, without any pretence of modesty, that this charm is at least as great in the case of Flora's lover as inmine, and that it is only fair to accord to each his just portion. If mybudding virtue possesses ineffable charms, no less powerful are those ofthe lilacs and the roses. It is really, I assure you, a wonderfulspectacle. You ought to have witnessed it! Some day I will tell you allabout it, as I have just been doing to my uncle, who finds it all verycurious, although he professes only to understand me "veryapproximately. "

Getting up at sunrise, Kondjé and I take a run through the coppices, herlittle feet all wet with the dew. We feel free, merry, and careless, dismissing the commissary to oblivion, and trusting to each other'slove, the full charms of which this solitary companionship has revealedto us. I do not risk more than two excursions to Paris each week, one tomy aunt Eudoxia's, and one to my aunt Van Cloth's. Having made theseangel's visits, and performed various family duties, I vanish, by day orby night as the case may be, eluding the vigilance of the spies who haveno doubt been set at my heels by the unscrupulous mother, or by _thatrascal Kiusko_, as we now call him. These adventures augment myrapturous felicity; and if time and destiny have shorn me of theprivilege of my sultanship, which you say rendered me so proud and vain, I retain at all events the glory of being happy. 

I am in love, my dear fellow; and therefore I dream and forget. Butthere is another still darker speck on my serene sky. Anna Campbell isjust approaching her eighteenth birthday, and I cannot think of thiswithout a good deal of melancholy. Although my uncle is delighted totake occasional walks here, at the end of which he finds a capital glassof madeira waiting for him, he, as you are aware, is not a person ofromantic temperament, and has already noted with his scrutinising eyethe ravages caused by a double passion, which bodes no good for hisdaughter's married life. 

The other night, on my return from my aunt Van Cloth's, he questioned mevery seriously on the subject. As to my disappointing his hopes, heknows that the idea of such a thing would not even occur to me. That isa matter of honour between us. 

I spoke of a further delay before preparing my poor Kondjé-Gul for theblow. He seemed touched at this token of the sincerity of my entirelyfilial devotion to him. 

The commissary has at last come; we have been discovered!

Yesterday afternoon we were sitting in the garden, under the shade of alittle clump of trees. My uncle, in a big arm-chair, was smoking andlistening, while I read to him the newspapers, which had just beenbrought to us. Suddenly Kondjé-Gul, who was standing a few steps offfrom us, arranging the plants for her window, uttered a suppressed cry, and I saw her run up to me all at once, pale and trembling. 

"What's the matter, dear?" I said to her. 

"Look there! look there!" she answered, in a terrified voice, pointingtowards the house, "my mother!"

At the same moment, on the door-step of the cottage, through which shehad passed, and found it empty, appeared the Circassian. 

She was accompanied by a man. 

"This is my daughter, sir, " she said to him. 

I sprang forward to throw myself in front of Kondjé-Gul. 

"Come, don't agitate yourself, my dear fellow!" said my uncle. "Do methe favour of keeping quiet!"

Then, rising up as he would to receive guests, he walked a few stepstowards Madame Murrah, who had advanced towards us, and addressinghimself to the man, said to him:

"Will you inform me, sir, to what I am indebted for the honour of thisvisit from you?"

"I am a Commissary of Police, sir, and am deputed by the court to assistthis lady, who has come to demand the restitution of her daughter, illegally harboured by you at your house. "

"Very well, sir, " continued my uncle; "I am delighted to see you! But beso kind, if you please, as to walk into the house, where we can consideryour demand more comfortably than in this garden. "

"Take care, " said the Circassian to the commissary: "they want tocontrive her escape!"

"Nothing of the sort, my dear madam, " replied my uncle: "this gentlemanwill tell you that we could not venture to do such a thing in hispresence. Your daughter will remain with us to answer any questionswhich may be put to her. I am taking her arm, and if you will kindlyfollow us, I shall have the honour of showing you the way. "

Onésime and Rupert might be distinguished in the dim perspective, waiting apparently for a signal from the captain to remove both thecommissary and the unwelcome lady visitor. 

Our hearts were beating fast: Kondjé-Gul could hardly restrain herfeelings. We went in, and my uncle, as calm as ever, offered chairs toMadame Murrah and to the emissary of justice. Then he addressed himagain, saying:

"May I inquire, sir, whether you are provided with a formal warrantauthorizing you to employ force to take this young lady away, accordingto her mother's wish?"

"I have the judge's order!" exclaimed Madame Murrah with vehemence. 

"Excuse me, excuse me, " continued my uncle, "but let us avoid allconfusion! Be so kind, if you please, madam, as to permit the commissaryto answer my question. We are anxious to observe the respect which weowe to his office. "

I felt done for. How could we resist the law? My poor Kondjé castdespairing looks at me. 

"Madame Murrah being a foreigner, sir, " answered the officer of the law, "as you appear to understand, my only instructions are to accompany her, and, in the event of opposition being made to her rights, to draw up areport in order to enable her to bring an action against you in a courtof justice. "

"Ah!" continued my uncle. "Well, then, sir! you may proceed, if youplease, to take down our replies. In the first place, then, the younglady formally declines to return to her mother. "

"That's false!" said the Circassian. "She is my daughter, and belongsonly to me! She will obey me, for she knows that I shall curse herif----"

"Let us be quite calm, if you please, and have no useless words!"replied my uncle. "It is your daughter's turn to reply. --Ask her, sir. "

The commissary then addressed himself to Kondjé-Gul, repeating thequestion. I saw her turn pale and hesitate, terror-stricken by hermother's looks. 

"Do you want to leave me, then?" I said to her passionately. 

"Oh, no!" she exclaimed. Then turning towards the commissary, she addedin a firm voice: "I do not wish to go with my mother, sir. "

At this the Circassian rose up in a fury. 

Kondjé-Gul fell on her knees before her, supplicating her with tears, inpiteous tones. 

In my alarm I rushed forward. 

"Get her out of the room; take her away!" my uncle said to me sharply. 

My poor Kondjé-Gul resisted, so I took her up in my arms and carried herout. At the door I found Fanny, who had come up, and I left my darlingin her care. 

Madame Murrah darted forward to follow her daughter, but my uncle hadseized her by the wrist, and forcing her down again, said to her inTurkish:

"We have not finished; and if you stir, beware!"

"Sir, " exclaimed the Circassian, addressing the officer of the law, "yousee how violently they are treating me, and how they are threateningme!"

All this had taken place so quickly that the commissary hardly had timeto intervene with a gesture. Onésime and Rupert were strolling aboutoutside the window. 

"Excuse me for having sent this child out, sir, " continued my uncle;"but you are, I believe, sufficiently acquainted already with herdecision. Moreover, she is there to reply afresh to you, if you desireto question her alone, secure from all influence and pressure. Itremains for me to speak now upon a subject which she ought not to hearmentioned. After her refusal to follow her mother, which she has justgiven so clearly, be so good as to add on your report that I also refusevery emphatically to give her up to her. "

"You have no right to rob me of my daughter, " exclaimed the Circassian, who was nearly delirious with rage. 

"That is just the point we are about to discuss, " replied my uncle. "Firstly, then, allow me to introduce myself to you, sir, " he continued, quite calmly; "and to explain my position and rights in this matter. Myname is _The Late_ Barbassou, ex-General and Pasha in the service of HisMajesty the Sultan--ranks which entitle me to the privileges of aTurkish subject. "

The commissary smiled and nodded to him, thus indicating that the nameof Barbassou-Pasha was already known to him. 

"As a consequence of these rights, sir, " continued my uncle, "my privatetransactions cannot come before the French courts; so that this affairmust be settled entirely between Madame Murrah and myself. I shouldeven add, while expressing to you my regrets for the inconvenience whichit is causing you, that it is I who have brought about this verynecessary interview. I presented myself twice at Madame Murrah's housein Paris, with the object of bringing this stupid business to aconclusion. For reasons, no doubt, which you are already in a positionto estimate, she refused to see me. I arranged, therefore, that sheshould be informed yesterday that her daughter was concealed in thishouse; and I came here at once myself, in order to have the pleasure ofmeeting the lady. There you have the whole story. "

"I refused to see you, " said Kondjé-Gul's mother, "simply because I donot know you! And I ask the judge to order the restitution of mydaughter, which the Ambassador of our Sultan supports me in demanding. Ihave his order to this effect. "

Here the commissary intervened, and, addressing my uncle, whoseimperturbable composure quite astounded me, said gravely:

"Would you oblige me, sir, by stating your motive for refusing to giveup this young lady to her mother? According to our laws, as you areaware, this is a circumstance which, notwithstanding the purelyvoluntary character of my mandate, I am bound to enter in my report. "

"Certainly, sir, " replied my uncle, "your request is a very proper one, and I will at once reply to it, as I would have done in the presence ofthe consul of His Excellency the Turkish Ambassador, were it not thatMadame Murrah has strong motives for avoiding such an explanation beforehim, between good Mussulmans like herself and me. "

"I understand you, " continued the commissary, suppressing another smileat this declaration of Barbassou-Pasha. 

"Sir, " added my uncle, "I have the advantage of being a Mahometan; andaccording to the special customs of my country, with which you areacquainted, this lady sold me her daughter by a straightforward andhonourable contract, sanctioned by our usages, recognized and supportedby our laws: these laws formally enjoin me to protect her, and tomaintain her always in a position corresponding with my own rank andfortune, while they forbid me ever to abandon her. Under the samecontract this lady duly received her 'gift' or legitimate remuneration, which had been estimated, fixed, and agreed to by her. Therefore, as youwill perceive, sir, " he added, "no discussion in this case would ever belistened to by an Ottoman tribunal, and Madame Murrah's suit would beignominiously dismissed. "

"We are in France, " said Madame Murrah, "and my daughter has becomefree!"

"To conclude, sir, " continued my uncle, without taking any notice ofthis objection, "this lady and I are both subjects of His Majesty theSultan. Ours is simply a private dispute between fellow-Turks, comingentirely under the jurisdiction of our national tribunals, and is one inwhich your French courts, as you will understand, have no authority tointerfere. "

"You are not my daughter's husband!" exclaimed the Circassian; "she doesnot belong to you any longer, for you have given her to your nephew, aGiaour, an infidel!"

"Quite true, madam!" replied my uncle. "But, " he continued, "these aredetails in a private dispute, with which this gentleman is notconcerned. And I fancy he has by this time obtained sufficientinformation. "

"Certainly, sir, " said the officer of the law, rising from his seat. "Ihave taken down your replies, and my mission is accomplished. "

Barbassou-Pasha, upon this conclusion, saluted him in his most dignifiedmanner and conducted him out with every polite attention. 

The Circassian, exasperated beyond measure, had not moved: rage wasdepicted on her whole countenance, and she looked like one determined tofight it out to the bitter end. 

"I must insist upon speaking to my daughter, " she said passionately, "and then we shall see!"

Just as he caught these words, my uncle came in, leading my poorKondjé-Gul by the hand. 

"Come, you silly old fool, " he said to Madame Murrah, changing his tonequite suddenly, "you can see now that there is nothing left to you butto submit. Swallow all your stupid threats! You will make a good thingout of it all the same--for I give your daughter in marriage to mynephew!"

I thought I must have misunderstood him. 

"Uncle!" I exclaimed, "what did you say?"

"Why, you rascal, I see that I must give her to you, since you love eachother so consumedly!"

Kondjé-Gul could not repress a scream of joy. We both threw ourselvesinto my uncle's arms at the same time. 

"Yes, " he said, "what a jolly couple they look! But it was your auntEudoxia who led me at last to play this card! Here I am nicely balked ofall my fine schemes!"

"Oh!" exclaimed Kondjé-Gul, "we will love each other so much!"

"Well, well! There, they're quite smothering me! May the good God blessyou! go along. But now we shall have to come to an understanding withthis excellent mother; for according to these infernal French laws, which complicate everything, her consent is necessary for yourmarriage. "

"I certainly shall not give it, " said Madame Murrah furiously. 

"All right! We will see about that, " he continued. "That is a matter tobe arranged between us, and for that purpose I shall go to your houseto-morrow. Only, I give you warning, no noise, please, no silly attemptsto carry off your daughter, otherwise we shall wait until she is of agein two years' time, and then you will have nothing. "

Don't be surprised, Louis, if for the rest of this page I scrawl like amonkey. At the recollection of this scene, my eyes are quite obscuredby a veil of mist. By Jove, so much the worse! for now it's all breakinginto real tears. 

Dear me, what a brick of an uncle he is to me!

Notwithstanding Barbassou-Pasha's Turkish tactics, and in spite of thehappiness which for the moment quite overwhelmed us, my poor Kondjé-Gulbegan to tremble again with fear after the departure of her mother, whomwe knew to be capable of any mad act. We decided that, in order to avoida very real danger, we would take her that very day to the convent ofthe Ladies of X. ; this we did. Before she becomes my wife she is goingto become a Christian, in pursuance of the wish which, as you know, shehas expressed a long time since, of embracing my faith. This visit, which will account to the world for her disappearance, will be explainedquite naturally by this _finale_ of our marriage; and if people everdiscover anything about this queer story of our amours, well--I shallhave married my own slave, that's all. 

Eh? What? You incorrigible carper! Is it not, after all, a charmingromance?

A fortnight has passed since the intervention of the commissary. Kiuskohas gone: he disappeared one morning. My aunt Eudoxia, who has taken usunder her special care, goes to see Kondjé-Gul every day at the convent. She is charming in her kindness to us, but still we have our anxieties. The negotiation of the maternal consent is an arduous task, for theCircassian makes absurd pretensions; my uncle, however, undertakes tobring her down. 

What will you say next, I wonder? That I am reduced to buying my ownwife? I flatter myself that I shall find happiness in that bargain! Howmany others are there, who have done the same, that could say as much asthat?

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CHAPTER XIX. 

Here's a fine business! It is my uncle who has got into trouble thistime! My aunt Eudoxia has found out everything, and I have just spenttwo days in helping my aunt Van Cloth to pack up and get back to Hollandwith my long string of cousins, the fat Dirkie, the cooking moulds, andthe barrel-organ following by goods' train. 

It was a veritable thunderclap!

I have told you all about this Dutch household and its patriarchalfelicity, its sweetmeat and sausage pastries, and its inimitabletarts--less appetizing, however, than my aunt's fine eyes. I have toldyou about their quiet family evenings with my uncle's pipe andschiedam, in which domino-parties of three were varied by the delightfultreat of a symphony from one of the great masters, executed in amasterly style by a pretty little plump hand covered with pink dimples. 

Once or twice a week, as became a favourite and affectionate nephew, Icame into the midst of this idyll of the land of tulips; and alwaysquitted it full of sweetmeats and good advice. 

However, the day before yesterday, Ernest, the second of my cousins, whois five years old, suddenly caught a violent fever; he grew scarlet inthe face, and his stomach swelled up like a balloon. 

My poor aunt, having exhausted all her arsenal of aperients andastringents against what she reckoned to be an indigestion due topreserved plums, quite lost her head. In the afternoon the child grewworse. Where in Paris could she find a Dutch doctor? She could onlyplace confidence in a Dutchman. At the end of her wits with fear, shethought she would go after my uncle or me; so, without thinking any moreabout it, as she knew our address, she takes a cab and gets driven tothe Rue de Varennes, believing in her simplicity that this was where ourshops and offices were. 

She arrives and asks for my uncle. Being seven o'clock, the hall-portertells her that the captain will soon be in, shows her to the staircase, and rings the bell; one of the men-servants asks her for her name, andthen opens the folding doors, announcing--

"Madame Barbassou!"

It is my aunt Eudoxia who receives her. 

My aunt Van Cloth, who is distracted with anxiety, thinks that she seesbefore her some lady of my family, and in order to excuse herself fordisturbing her, begins by saying that she has come to see CaptainBarbassou, _her husband_. 

Imagine the stupefaction of my aunt Eudoxia! But being too astute tobetray herself, she lets the other speak, questions her and learns thewhole story. Then, like the good soul that she is, and feeling sorry forpoor Ernest and his swollen stomach, she rings and orders the carriageto be ready, so that she may go as soon as possible to her own doctor;upon which my aunt Van Cloth, who is of an effusive nature, embraces hermost affectionately, calling her her dearest friend. 

Just then my uncle arrives. 

I was not present; but my aunt Eudoxia, who continues to laugh over it, has related to me all the details of the affair. At the sight of thisremarkable fusion of "the two branches of his hymens, " as she termed it, the Pasha was positively dumbfounded. All the more so as my aunt VanCloth, who understood no more about this extraordinary position ofaffairs than she did of Hebrew, threw herself into his arms, andexclaimed:

"Ah! Anatole! here you are, dear!--Our Ernest is in danger!"

The bravest man will quail occasionally; and at this unfortunate andunavoidable attack, which tore asunder the whole veil of mystery, thesplendid composure with which Nature has armed my uncle Barbassou reallydeserted him for a moment. But, like a man who is superior tomisfortunes of this sort, when he found himself caught he did not onthis occasion, more than on any other, waste any time over spilt cream. 

"Quick! we must go and fetch the child!" he said. 

And taking advantage of the fact that my aunt Van Cloth was hanging tohim, he carried her off without any more ado, and went out by the door, without leaving her time to kiss the Countess of Monteclaro, as shecertainly would have done out of politeness. From the ante-room hedragged her down to the carriage, where he packed her in. 

I was coming down from my own chambers just as he returned from thissummary execution. Although about the last thing I expected to come infor was the climax of a tragic occurrence, I could see easily enoughthat my uncle had experienced some little shock; but the announcement ofdinner and the ordinary tone of my aunt's reception creating adiversion, I did not feel certain until we were seated at table thatthere was some storm in the air which was only restrained from burstingby the presence of the servants. The Pasha, sitting in silence with hishead bent down into his plate, seemed to be absorbed by some abstruseconsiderations, which caused him that evening to forget to grumble atthe cook. My aunt, on the contrary, sparkling with humour, and in hermost charming and gracious mood, suggested by her smiles a certainlightness of heart: he eyed her suspiciously from time to time, like aman with an uncomfortable conscience. 

When the meal was over we returned to the drawing-room, and coffee beingserved, remained there alone. The Countess of Monteclaro, still asgracious as ever, made some sly thrusts at him, the significance ofwhich escaped me somewhat. The captain evidently was keeping very quiet. Finally, after half an hour, as I was about to leave, and he showedsymptoms of an intention to slip off, she said to him, in her mostinsinuating manner--

"I will detain you for a minute, my dear; I must have a littleconversation with you about a matter on which I want to take youradvice. "

I kissed the hand which she held out to me, and which indicated that mypresence was not wanted. 

"Well, good night, old good-for-nothing!" she added, as she accompaniedme as far as the door of the adjoining room. 

What passed after I left, none will ever know. My aunt, with herexquisite tact, has only related to me the original and amusing side ofthe matter, laughing at her unfortunate discovery in the lofty manner ofa noble lady who is smoothing over a family trouble. Apart from her verygenuine affection for my uncle, she entertains also a certain esteem forhim, which she could never depart from before his nephew. 

As for myself, I remained still in ignorance of everything until nineo'clock, when the Pasha joined me again at the club, where he hadparticularly asked me to wait for him. 

At the first glance I guessed that there had been a row. Without sayinga word, he led me into a little detached room: there he fell into anarm-chair, and shook his head in silence, as he looked at me. 

"Good gracious! what's the matter, uncle?" I asked. 

"Pfuiii!" he replied, staring with his full eyes, and prolonging thiskind of whistling exclamation, like a man who is breathing more freelyafter a narrow escape. 

His gestures were so eloquent, his sigh so expressive and soreinvigorating, that I waited until he had given complete vent to it. When I saw him quite exhausted by it, I continued, feeling reallyanxious--

"Come! what is it?"

"Oh, I've just had such a nasty turn!" he answered at last, "Pfuiii!"

I respected this new effort at relief, which, moreover set him rightthis time. 

"You've had some words with my aunt, I suppose?" I added, at a venture, recollecting the cloud which seemed to hang over us at dinner. 

"A regular earthquake!" he drawled out, in that appalling Marseillesaccent which he falls into whenever he is overcome by any strongemotion. "Your aunt Eudoxia has discovered the whole bag of tricks! Thestory of the Passy house, your aunt Gretchen, the children, Dirkie, andthe whole blessed shop!"

"But, perhaps she has only suspicions--the consequence of some gossipshe has heard?"

"Suspicions?" he exclaimed; "why, they have met each other!"

"Nonsense, that's impossible!--Are you really sure of this?"

"_Tê!_ Sure indeed? I should think so! I return home to dinner, comeinto the drawing-room, and I actually find them both there, talkingtogether. They were kissing each other!"

"The deuce!" I exclaimed, quite alarmed this time. 

"Well, that was a stunner, wasn't it, my dear boy?"

"It was indeed! Whatever did you do?"

"I separated them, carrying Gretchen back at once to her carriage. "

"Then now I understand the chill which seemed to be over us alldinner-time. So, after I went out, you had a heavy downfall?"

"Pfuiii!" my uncle began again. 

This last sigh seemed to lose itself in such a vista of painfulsouvenirs, that the whole of Théramène's narrative would certainly havetaken less time to tell. I proceeded as quickly as I could, foreseeingthat my intervention would be necessary. 

"Had I not better run over to my aunt Gretchen's?" I asked him. 

"Yes, I certainly think you had. I promised that, except in case ofErnest's illness proving serious, they should all leave Paris to-morrow!You may still have time to arrange that this evening, " he added, lookingat the clock. 

"All right, I'm off!" I replied, rising up. 

As I was about to go out, he called me back. 

"Ah! above all, " he continued sharply, "don't forget to tell Eudoxiato-morrow that it is you who have undertaken this business, and that asfor me, I have not stirred from here!"

"That's quite understood, uncle, " I answered, laughing to myself at theblue funk he was in. 

Needless to add, I did not lose any time. In a quarter of an hour I wasat Passy. It so happened that a favourable crisis had come over Ernestand relieved him, and he gave no further cause for anxiety. My auntGretchen, who had gone through all this business as a blind man mightpass under an arch, without knowing anything about it, did not evincethe least surprise on hearing that my uncle "having received a telegramwhich had obliged him to leave Paris that evening, had commissioned mein his absence to send her off immediately to Amsterdam. " She entrustedme with no end of compliments for the Countess of Monteclaro, whoseacquaintance she was charmed to have made. 

The next morning she was rolling away in the express, delighted to havemade such an agreeable and enjoyable visit. 

A week has now passed since this affair, and beyond that my uncle isstill quite humiliated by a malicious sort of gaiety affected by myaunt, who often calls him "The Pasha, " instead of "The Captain, " whichis the title she always gave him formerly, everything has resumed theharmonious tranquillity of the best regulated household. Attentions, politenesses, gallantries, &c. , are quite the order of the day. Only heis ruining me with all the presents he lavishes upon her; and I havebeen forced to make serious complaints on the subject to my aunt, whohas laughed insanely at them, maintaining that it is "the sinner'sransom. " Still, some kind of restrictions are necessary in families, andI have warned her that, if it continues, I shall stop "the lateBarbassou's" credit, seeing that he is dead. 

"You see what a simple matter it is, as my uncle says, " I added. 

But she only laughed again, louder than ever. We have got on no further. 

Louis, go and hang yourself! I was married yesterday, and you were notthere!

The ceremony was very fine. It was at the church of Sainte Clotilde; allthe Faubourg St. Germain was there, delighted at Kondjé-Gul'sconversion, and with her beauty, her charming manners, and the romanceconnected with our marriage. Everyone was there who has made any name inthe world of art, not to speak of that of finance. There was BaronRothschild, who had a long conversation with my uncle. Three specialcorrespondents for London newspapers were present, and all our own Parisreporters. High Mass, full choral; Fauré sang his _Pie Jesus_, MadameCarvalho and Adelina Patti the _Credo_. 

At the entrance, the crowd nearly crushed us. Barbassou-Pasha, Count ofMonteclaro, gave his arm to the bride. Poor Kondjé, what agitation, whatemotion, what delight she evinced! I escorted Madame Murrah in asplendid costume, tamed but very dignified still, and playing her partwith noble airs, like a fatalist. "It was written!" She started off thesame day to Rhodes, where my uncle is finding a position for her--ashead manager of his Botany Bay. 

The Countess of Monteclaro was there, and Anna Campbell was smiling allover as she acted, in company with Maud and Susannah Montague, asbridesmaid to her friend Kondjé-Gul. 

It took them all exactly an hour to pass in procession through thevestry. We had to sign the register there, and my uncle headed it withhis self-assumed title of "_The late_ Barbassou, " to which he clings. 

Then came the deluge of congratulations, my beautiful Christian wifeblushing in her emotion, with her garland of orange-flowers. (Well, yes!And why not? It's the custom, you know. )

At two o'clock, back to the house, a family love-feast, and preparationsfor the flight of the young couple to Férouzat. Peace and joy in allhearts. My uncle, at last admitted to absolution, quivering withpleasure at hearing my aunt Eudoxia calling him no longer "Pasha, " but"Captain, " as of old. 

Everywhere Love and Spring!

Come now, Louis, quite seriously, are you, who have made the experiment, quite sure that one heart suffices for one veritable love? I am anxiousto know. 

When evening arrived, the Count and Countess of Monteclaro accompaniedus to the railway station. They will join us at the end of the month. 

I leave you to imagine for yourself all the kisses and salutations, promises and grandparents' advice. 

While my aunt was exhorting Kondjé-Gul, my uncle favoured me with a fewwords on his part. 

"You see, " he said to me quietly, standing by the side of our carriage, "there is one thing which it is indispensable for you not to forget, andthat is never on any account to have _two wives_--in the same town!"

Louis, I think my uncle is a little wanting in principle. 

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