Page 112 (2/2)

Celia had no doubt who "she" was She was Mme de Montespan

"Oh, no, madame!" she stammered "Here, at Aix, we are not in the

spirit for such things," And then, in a voice of dread, Mme Dauvray asked: "Is it true,

then, what Adele said?"

And Celia started violently Mme Dauvray doubted

"I believe it would break my heart, my dear, if I were to think

that; if I were to know that you had trickedvoice Celia covered her face with her hands It would

be true She had no doubt of it Mive Celia Her infatuation had grown so

to engross her that the rest of her life would surely be

embittered It was not merely a passion--it was a creed as well

Celia shrank from the renewal of these seances Every fibre in her

was in revolt They were so unworthy--so unworthy of Harry

Wethermill, and of herself as she now herself wished to be But

she had to pay now; the moment for payment had come

"Celie," said Mme Dauvray, "it isn't true! Surely it isn't true?"

Celia drew her hands away fronol coirl's hand and pressed it with affection

"Oh, thank you! thank you!" she cried "Adele Rossignol laughs to-

night; we shall convince her on Tuesday, Celie! Celie, I alad!" And her voice sank into a soleht that she should laugh! To bring people

back through the gates of the spirit-world--that is wonderful"