I must say a word
about Jasper, and you will not press me to explain more than I can
without breaking my promise."
"Thank you, thank you! It is regarding that woman, I know. Tell me all
you can; I will not be importunate, but I disliked her the instant I saw
her, beautiful and charming as she seems."
"When my cousin and I were in Paris, just before my illness, we met her.
She was with her father then, a gay old man who led a life of pleasure,
and was no fit guardian for a lovely daughter. She knew our story and,
having fascinated both, paused to decide which she would accept: Jasper,
for his title, or me, for my fortune. This was before my uncle changed
his will, and I believed myself his heir; but, before she made her
choice, something (don't ask me what, if you please) occurred to send us
from Paris. On our return voyage we were wrecked, and then came my
illness, disinheritance, and helplessness. Edith Dubarry heard the
story, but rumor reported it falsely, and she believed both of us had
lost the fortune. Her father died penniless, and in a moment of despair
she married the general, whose wealth surrounds her with the luxury she
loves, and whose failing health will soon restore her liberty--"
"And then, Maurice?" interrupted my lady.
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