"
"A fig for the Grand Company! Remember, it is I desire his return;
and it is my command, not the Intendant's, which you are bound, as a
gallant gentleman, to obey." Angelique would have no divided
allegiance, and the man who claimed her favors must give himself up,
body and soul, without thought of redemption.
She felt very reckless and very wilful at this moment. The laughter
on her lips was the ebullition of a hot and angry heart, not the
play of a joyous, happy spirit. Bigot's refusal of a lettre de
cachet had stung her pride to the quick, and excited a feeling of
resentment which found its expression in the wish for the return of
Le Gardeur.
"Why do you desire the return of Le Gardeur?" asked De Pean,
hesitatingly. Angelique was often too frank by half, and
questioners got from her more than they liked to hear.
"Because he was my first admirer, and I never forget a true friend,
Chevalier," replied she, with an undertone of fond regret in her
voice.
"But he will not be your last admirer," replied De Pean, with what
he considered a seductive leer, which made her laugh at him.
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