CHAPTER XIX.
PUT MONEY IN THY PURSE.
The Chevalier des Meloises, quite out of humor with the merry
Louises, picked his way with quick, dainty steps down the Rue du
Palais. The gay Louises, before returning to the Convent, resolved
to make a hasty promenade to the walls to see the people at work
upon them. They received with great contentment the military
salutes of the officers of their acquaintance, which they
acknowledged with the courtesy of well-trained internes, slightly
exaggerated by provoking smiles and mischievous glances which had
formed no part of the lessons in politeness taught them by the nuns.
In justice be it said, however, the girls were actuated by a nobler
feeling than the mere spirit of amusement--a sentiment of loyalty to
France, a warm enthusiasm for their country, drew them to the walls:
they wanted to see the defenders of Quebec, to show their sympathy
and smile approval upon them.
"Would to heaven I were a man," exclaimed Louise de Brouague, "that
I might wield a sword, a spade, anything of use, to serve my
country! I shame to do nothing but talk, pray, and suffer for it,
while every one else is working or fighting.
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