"
Amelie shied from a compliment like a young colt at its own shadow.
She avoided further reference to the subject broached by Le Gardeur
by saying,--"It was I whom Heloise saw pass into the church. I
never explained the mystery to her, and she is not sure yet whether
it was my wraith or myself who gave her that fright on St. John's
eve. But I claimed her heart as one authorized to take it, and if
I could not marry her myself I claimed the right to give her to
whomsoever I pleased, and I gave her to you, Le Gardeur, but you
would not accept the sweetest girl in New France!"
"Thanks, Amelie," replied he, laughing, yet wincing. "Heloise is
indeed all you say, the sweetest girl in New France! But she was
too angelic for Le Gardeur de Repentigny. Pshaw! you make me say
foolish things, Amelie. But in penance for my slight, I will be
doubly attentive to my fair cousin de Lotbiniere to-day. I will at
once order the horses and we will ride down to the village to meet
her."
Arrayed in a simple riding-dress of dark blue, which became her as
did everything else which she wore,--Amelie's very attire seemed
instinct with the living graces and charms of its wearer,--she
mounted her horse, accepting the aid of Philibert to do so, although
when alone she usually sprang to the saddle herself, saluting the
Lady de Tilly, who waved her hand to them from the lawn.
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