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"Yes" said Villefort; "but I warn M d'Epinay, that during my life-time my father's will shall never be questioned,any doubt to be entertained"

"Sir," said Franz, "I regret much that such a question has been raised in the presence of Mademoiselle Valentine; I have never inquired the amount of her fortune, which, however liht consideration in this alliance with M de Villefort; all I seek is happiness" Valentine imperceptibly thanked him, while two silent tears rolled down her cheeks "Besides, sir," said Villefort, addressing hi the loss of a portion of your hopes, this unexpected will need not personally wound you; M Noirtier's weakness of mind sufficiently explains it It is not because Madery, but because she will marry, a union with any other would have caused hie is selfish, sir, and Mademoiselle de Villefort has been a faithful companion to M Noirtier, which she cannot be when she becomes the Baroness d'Epinay My father'sto him on any subjects, which the weakness of his , and I ah, he knows that his granddaughter is going to be otten the narandson" M de Villefort had scarcely said this, when the door opened, and Barrois appeared

"Gentle to his entlemen, M Noirtier de Villefort wishes to speak immediately to M Franz de Quesnel, baron d'Epinay;" he, as well as the notary, that there ave all his titles to the bride-groom elect

Villefort started, Madame de Villefort let her son slip from her knees, Valentine rose, pale and dued a second look, more full of amazement than the first The notary looked at Villefort "It is impossible," said the procureur "M d'Epinay cannot leave the drawing-room at present"

"It is at this moment," replied Barrois with the same firmness, "that M Noirtier, my master, wishes to speak on important subjects to M Franz d'Epinay"

"Grandpapa Noirtier can speak now, then," said Edward, with his habitual quickness However, his remark did not make Madaed, and so soleht So like a smile was perceptible on Madame de Villefort's countenance Valentine instinctively raised her eyes, as if to thank heaven