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He was interrupted by the entrance of a servant, who announced that the

Chevalier John Van Schoonhoven,[8] the bailiff, desired to speak with him

Geronimo was about to withdraw, but Mr Van de Werve said to hinor; I will send Petronilla, Mary's duenna as a companion for

her; the intervieith the Chevalier Schoonhoven o to the dock-yard, and ill at least enjoy the

fine weather Stay, I beg you"

Hardly had he left the hall when an old woman entered, and seated herself

near the door She drew a chaplet fro

in a low voice This was apparently an habitual act with her, for neither

the young girl nor the young man took the least notice of the duenna

Mary approached her lover, and said, gaily: "Rejoice, Geronimo! My father

has just promised not to propose very heavy conditions to your uncle"

"I a man, sadly

"What can be the matter?" asked Mary, surprised by his indifference "I

noticed you were depressed when you first came Be more hopeful; perhaps

the Il Salvatore will ascend the Scheldt to-day"