Chapter 14 - Page 2

"I shall read you the document which is very
brief."

"'I, the undersigned, Paul Emile Cyprien Gontran, Count de
Vaudrec, sound both in body and mind, here express my last
wishes. As death might take me away at any moment, I wish to
take the precaution of drawing up my will, to be deposited with
M. Lamaneur.'"

"'Having no direct heirs, I bequeath all my fortune, comprising
stocks and bonds for six hundred thousand francs and landed
property for five hundred thousand, to Mme. Claire Madeleine du
Roy unconditionally. I beg her to accept that gift from a dead
friend as a proof of devoted, profound, and respectful
affection.'"

The notary said: "That is all. That document bears the date of
August last, and took the place of one of the same nature made two
years ago in the name of Mme. Claire Madeleine Forestier. I have the
first will, which would prove, in case of contestation on the part
of the family, that Count de Vaudrec had not changed his mind."

Madeleine cast down her eyes; her cheeks were pale. Georges
nervously twisted his mustache.

The notary continued after a moment's pause: "It is of course
understood that Madame cannot accept that legacy without your
consent."

Du Roy rose and said shortly: "I ask time for reflection."

The notary smiled, bowed, and replied pleasantly: "I comprehend the
scruples which cause you to hesitate. I may add that M. de Vaudrec's
nephew, who was informed this morning of his uncle's last wishes,
expresses himself as ready to respect them if he be given one
hundred thousand francs. In my opinion the will cannot be broken,
but a lawsuit would cause a sensation which you would probably like
to avoid. The world often judges uncharitably. Can you let me have
your reply before Saturday?"

Georges bowed, and together with his wife left the office. When they
arrived home, Du Roy closed the door and throwing his hat on the
bed, asked: "What were the relations between you and Vaudrec?"

Madeleine, who was taking off her veil, turned around with a
shudder: "Between us?"

"Yes, between you and him! One does not leave one's entire fortune
to a woman unless--"

She trembled, and could scarcely take out the pins which fastened
the transparent tissue. Then she stammered in an agitated manner:
"You are mad--you are--you are--you did not think--he would leave
you anything!"

Georges replied, emphazing each word: "Yes, he could have left me
something; me, your husband, his friend; but not you, my wife and
his friend. The distinction is material in the eyes of the world."

Madeleine gazed at