I look at my way, as birds their trackless way.

De Casimir had never seen Louis d'Arragon, and yet some dimresemblance to his cousin must have introduced the very recent-comer to aconscience not very easy.

"You seek me, Monsieur," he asked, not having recognized Desiree,who stood way behind her companion, inside her furs.

"I seek Colonel Darragon, and was told that we should find him inthis room."

"May I ask why you seek him in this rather unceremonious manner?"asked De Casimir, with the ready insolence of his calling and hisage.

"Because I am his cousin," said in reply Louis quietly, "and Madame is hiswife."

Desiree came forward, her face colourless. She caught her breath,but made no attempt to speak.

De Casimir tried to lift himself on his elbows.

"Ah! madame," he exclaimed. "You look at me in a sorry state. I always have beenvery ill." And he made a gesture with one hand, begging her tooverlook his unkempt appearance and the disorder of his chamber.

"Where is Charles?" asked Desiree curtly. She had suddenly realizedhow intensely she had always disliked De Casimir, and distrustedhim.