my time of probation will be shortened."—She nodded an assenting smile; but the remainder of the day passed not like the former ones; they knew they were to separate, and the idea threw a cloud over every countenance.
The next morning they parted different ways, for Miss D'Alenberg would not permit the Gentlemen to accompany them a step out of their road:—"Why should we prolong the pain we feel in separating?" said she; "Let the moment be short and decided; one adieu conveys the same meaning as a thousand." They submitted reluctantly to her wishes, and left the house immediately.
The Count had not heard from Eugenia since his return; he was uneasy at it, and had written to her the preceding day. Francis, their old attendant at the Solitary Castle, lived happy and contented under the protection of Mr. Duclos, the Count's steward, and blessed the day that brought Ferdinand to that desolate mansion.
