Helen and Amy looked at each other with a mutual smile and exclamation , -- `` He knows some English , then ! '' There was time for no more -- a violent rustle , a boyish laugh , and down swung the slender tree , with the young man clinging to the top . As he landed safely , Helen cried , `` Bravo ! '' and Amy rushed out , exclaiming reproachfully , yet admiringly , -- `` How could you do it and frighten us so ? I shall never express a wish before you again , for if I wanted the moon you 'd rashly try to get it , I know . '' '' Certainement , mademoiselle , '' was the smiling reply . Casimer presented the flowers , as if the exploit was a mere trifle . `` Now I shall go and press them at once in uncle 's guide-book . Come and help me , else you will be in mischief again . '' And Amy led the way to the major with her flowers and their giver . Helen roamed into one of the ruined courts for a last look at a fountain which pleased her eye . A sort of cloister ran round the court , open on both sides , and standing in one of these arched nooks , she saw Hoffman and a young girl talking animatedly . The girl was pretty , well dressed , and seemed refusing something for which the other pleaded eagerly . His arm was about her , and she leaned affectionately upon him , with a white hand now and then caressing his face , which was full of sparkle and vivacity now . They seemed about to part as Helen looked , for the maiden standing on tiptoe , laughingly offered her blooming cheek , and as Karl kissed it warmly , he said in German , so audibly Helen heard every word , -- `` Farewell , my Ludmilla . Keep silent and I shall soon be with you . Embrace the little one , and do not let him forget me . '' Both left the place as they spoke , each going a different way , and Helen slowly returned to her party , saying to herself in a troubled tone , -- '' ` Ludmilla ' and ` the little one ' are his wife and child , doubtless . I wonder if uncle knows that . '' When Hoffman next appeared she could not resist looking at him ; but the accustomed gravity was resumed , and nothing remained of the glow and brightness he had worn when with Ludmilla in the cloister .
VI CHATEAU DE LA TOUR Helen XXXXX serious and Amy indignant when their uncle joined them , ready to set out by the afternoon train , all having dined and rested after the morning 's excursion .
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